Panthers say they have a QB competition, but Baker Mayfield is the no-brainer selection | Opinion
When it comes to talent, intangibles and bodies of work, Baker Mayfield holds a healthy edge over Sam Darnold.
Mike JonesLANDOVER, Md. – In one of the few starting quarterback battles this NFL preseason, the Carolina Panthers presented the first installment of Mayfield vs. Darnold – the showdown of former 2018 top draft picks in search of redemption with their second pro team.
The “showdown” was more so a sampling, however, as each played sparingly in Carolina’s 23-21 victory. One 12-play series for Baker Mayfield. Six plays over two possessions for Sam Darnold. A 3-for-4 success rate on third downs and a field goal drive for Mayfield. A three-play, 19-yard touchdown drive first for Darnold, and a three-and-out after that.
Now, the Panthers return to Charlotte where practices and evaluations will continue for some undetermined window of time as coach Matt Rhule declined to reveal when the competition will end.
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