The Cleveland Browns managed to win their first game in nearly two years thanks to the heroics of quarterback Baker Mayfield. Even New York Jets safety Jamal Adams says the defense was admittedly caught off guard by his career debut.
The Jets had set up a game plan to stop quarterback Tyrod Taylor. However, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com, Adams had this to say about their Mayfield preparation:
“We had to be open to knowing that Baker could come in, but we were prepared for Tyrod,” Adams said. “When Baker came in, obviously we didn’t have a game plan for him. But hats off to him. He came in, he definitely played lights out. They gained momentum, and we just couldn’t grab it back.”
The Browns were dead in the water during the first half with Taylor under center. However, it is clear that their lack of preparation was their ultimate undoing. Mayfield's impact was felt almost immediately as he completed 17-of-23 passes for 201 yards to lead Cleveland to a 21-17 victory.
It may seem a bit strange that New York did not prepare for the rookie in the slightest. Either they truly felt there was no chance he would play, or they simply did not think it was necessary to come up with a game plan for him just in case.
Regardless, it undoubtedly backfired on them and has even led to head coach Todd Bowles reportedly taking back some of the play-calling duties from defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers.
Follow Us
Subscribe