After two days of pretty even play among Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield, we may be seeing one slightly pull ahead of the other in their much anticipated quarterback competition.
Here are my day three training camp observations:
The Battle:
Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield are still rotating days with the first team. Friday, Sam Darnold took snaps with the first group. For most of camp we’ve seen Darnold make the safe throw underneath, but he aired it out more in the third practice – connecting with Terrace Marshall on a 30-40 yard bomb during his first 11-on-11 period. Darnold, however, struggled in his first red zone seven-versus-seven drill, going 0-4.
Baker Mayfield went 2-4 on his first seven-on-seven drill and 1-3 on his second seven-on-seven possession in the red zone. While Darnold was unable to get the offense in scoring position during an 11-on-11 drill meant to simulate an end of half game situation, Baker Mayfield seamlessly took the offense into scoring range on 4-5 passing before two penalties backed them out of field goal range. Mayfield then connected twice with receivers to gain enough yards for a Zane Gonzalez field goal.
While Darnold’s willingness to take more shots is encouraging, it was Mayfield’s ability to get the team in scoring position in the two minute drill that gives him the slight performance edge in today’s practice.
The Management:
Running back Christian McCaffrey did not participate Friday. After practice, Matt Rhule confirmed it was a rest day for Christian who is expected to participate in the team’s Back Together Saturday practice.
The Demotion:
As noted before, Brady Christensen has been mainly taking reps with the first group at left tackle and sliding over to left guard when 2022 first round draft pick Ikem Ekwonu comes in. What hasn’t been noted is that Cam Erving, who started nine games at left tackle last season, has been working with the third and fourth string group.
The Return:
Veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson spoke with media after practice where he was asked if he thinks he’ll be ready to play by the beginning of the season as he recovers from a minor knee procedure. Thompson told us that he’s not sure and is taking things “day by day.”
The Time Change:
Due to forecasted inclement weather conditions in the Spartanburg area on Saturday, the Carolina Panthers Back Together Saturday practice in Wofford’s Gibbs Stadium has been moved to earlier in the day. Gates will open at 10 a.m. Practice will begin at 11 a.m. and conclude at approximately 1 p.m.
Fan elements will remain in place for this free event. The day includes on-field performances by Panthers entertainment groups including the TopCats and Sir Purr, and activities such as a balloon artist, food trucks, interactive games and sponsor activations. This year’s event also marks the return of autograph opportunities. Players will be available after practice to sign autographs for fans in the stands.
