Heading into the 2020 season there are a lot of questions on how Baker Mayfield will play.
Baker had an excellent 2018 season with 27 Touchdowns, 3,725 yards, and 93.7 passer rating. Baker was able to get the rookie touchdown record (27 TDs) while not playing until Week 3 of the regular season.
However, Baker took a step back in 2019 after an impressive 2018 season.
After Baker’s huge step back there were concerns if he was the future. A huge reason for Baker’s struggles was the coaching and offensive line. Freddie Kitchens was the Browns Head Coach for the 2019 season; he was one of the worst head coaches in the league. Freddie was one of the worst play-callers and was running plays the team didn’t practice.
A big problem for Baker is the turnovers. He needs to make the right reads and not force the ball into coverage. Baker has a problem of rolling out when he doesn’t need to. Baker needs to control the ball better.
Baker was force-feeding players like Odell Beckham Jr and Jarvis Landry. This force-feeding made Baker spread the ball around less and lead to interceptions. Baker also had one of the worst pass-blocking offensive lines in the league.
The Browns hired Kevin Stefanski as there Head Coach in January. Stefanski’s Wide Zone scheme is greater than Freddie’s cluster of a scheme. Stefanski’s scheme is more run-heavy than pass-heavy, in which this leads to play-action. Baker is at his best in play-action.
Stefanski will have Baker spread the ball around as he did successfully in 2018, Baker will stay in the pocket and will only roll out when he needs to. Baker in the pocket making the right reads is what’s best for him and not rolling out trying to make flashy plays.
With the additions of Tackles Jack Conklin and Jedrick Wills, the Browns have filled there needs on the offensive side.
Baker is set up for success. Baker’s pass protection will improve and will give him more time in the pocket to make the right reads.
Baker has all the pieces for success.
Photo: CBSsports.com
