4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s performance at the Ravens

Baker Mayfield is out of excuses

There were viable excuses for Baker Mayfield’s poor production over the opening five weeks. Matt Rhule’s influence, the unnecessary quarterback competition with Sam Darnold, minimal time to develop chemistry, and suspect play-calling featured heavily, but those are wearing extremely thin with so much of the season already played out.

This was the trade anticipated to get the Carolina Panthers from also-rans into contention. A ceiling that Mayfield hasn’t been able to hit at any stage during his time as the team’s starter.

While Mayfield should be commended for his leadership and adaptability to an ever-changing circumstance, all fans truly care about is production when it counts. An area where he’s been found wanting.

Mayfield’s latest disappointing performance only increases the doubts surrounding his long-term NFL aspirations. His time in Carolina won’t last beyond the current campaign, but what comes next for the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 is murkier than ever before.

If this represented one last audition for Mayfield to prove he’s capable of leading a franchise to prominence, he couldn’t make the most of it. In all honesty, the fact Carolina’s ever-improving defense held Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens to 13 points on the road makes it even worse.