Cleveland Browns: Studs and duds in Week 2 reality check

Cleveland Browns Stud:  Quarterback Baker Mayfield

Baker Mayfield has proven through two weeks that he is indeed ready to take the next step as an NFL quarterback and help lead the Browns to their goal of a Super Bowl. After a quality performance against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1, Mayfield continued his excellent play in Week 2 against the Houston Texans.

While the game plan early was to throw, the philosophy shifted to a heavy rushing attack after Mayfield returned from a short absence due to injury.  While he didn’t miss a snap, he did go to the locker room, and backup quarterback Case Keenum was warming up and preparing to see action for the first time this season.

Mayfield finished the day 19-for-21 passing with 213 yards passing, including a touchdown pass to running back Demetric Felton. He also tallied a rushing touchdown on the day. Mayfield’s only two incompletions came on a miscommunication with his receiver, and an interception, where the receiver stopped running his route and didn’t fight to break up the pass. Otherwise, it was a blemish-free day for the franchise quarterback.

With Mayfield being a stud for the second week in a row, it’s easy to see that his offseason work with head coach Kevin Stefanski and his teammates to better learn this offense has paid off.

He has continued to take steps forward to be an improved player and knows that while those outside the organization may still doubt him, he has the full support of his teammates, coaches, and fans.