For Cleveland, Baker Mayfield starting is something that’s been thrown around a lot since draft night. Luckily, after Thursday’s win, the Browns are back! At least until next Sunday. On Thursday Night Football, the Browns managed to win 21-17 over the New York Jets, a game in which Cleveland was favored. However, it still came as a shock to many. The Jets were backed by a QB that many think was the “best” quarterback in the draft, Sam Darnold. After Tyrod Taylor went down with a concussion late in the second quarter, Baker Mayfield stepped in to replace him, and he showed what he can do.
The Comeback
When Mayfield entered the game, the Browns were facing a somewhat big deficit, trailing 14-0 with a minute left in the half and then 14-3 heading into halftime. In the third quarter, the Browns managed to turn a fumble into a field goal, making the game 14-6. Then Baker stepped up. Mayfield totaled 57 yards on 4-4 passing in a late third quarter drive that was capped off by a Browns’ touchdown. Even more impressive, for their two-point conversion, Cleveland ran their version of the “Philly Special.” The attempt would be successful with the rookie Mayfield catching a pass from WR Jarvis Landry.
Fast forward to 8:56 left in the fourth with the Jets up 17-14. Mayfield goes 60 yards on 6-8 passing in what would be the game-winning drive. Accurate throws, solid play-calling, and a veteran-like poise are all things that Mayfield had to give the Browns their first win in 635 days.
Sticking with Baker
Yes, Baker Mayfield led the Browns to their first win in a while, however, there’s more to why he should be the starter going forward. Mayfield is a proven winner. Back in his days at Oklahoma, he managed to have an excellent record of 35-5 which includes a trip to the college football playoff. Not to mention he’s the most accomplished quarterback of his draft class with a Heisman Trophy. Furthermore, he’s already giving the Browns things they haven’t seen before. Thursday’s game against the Jets was the first time a Browns quarterback (Mayfield with 95.4) had a QBR of at least 90 since Derek Anderson in 2007.
Mayfield, as the backup, completely outplayed starter Tyrod Taylor. Both quarterbacks played about a half each, and Mayfield significantly outperformed Taylor. Prior to the injury, Taylor had only 19 yards on 4-4 passing while Mayfield had 201 on 17-23. Mayfield is a rookie, but he’s damn good. Finally, Mayfield is ready for the moment. WR Jarvis Landry described the rookie’s performance saying “this is a new team. For us to win this one, I think that it is going to create some momentum and energy for us.”
Is it a little early to assess whether Baker Mayfield is ready to be an NFL starter? Maybe. Maybe Not. But if last Thursday game proved anything, it’s that the former walk-on is more than ready to take the reins of the Browns franchise. From preseason to today, Baker has proven to be the rightfully deserved #1 pick. He’s arguably outperformed every quarterback in his class, thus far. As it stands though, Baker Mayfield starting, should become reality. Its Baker’s time, Cleveland.
Do you think it’s too early for Mayfield to take the reins? Is Tyrod Taylor already being a proven quarterback enough for the Browns? Can the Browns make it to the playoffs with Mayfield? Let me know and/or debate me.