It seems like the entire state of Oklahoma tuned into the Browns preseason opener against the Giants (there’s some words I never thought I’d type), and they were not disappointed. No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield finished with an impressive stat line of 11/20 for 212 yards, 2 TDs and no interceptions. He also led the Browns in rushing with 13 yards, which might be an area of concern for the coaching staff.
After an uneventful first drive, Mayfield really found his groove. He capped off his second drive of the game with a 10 yard touchdown pass to tight end David Njoku.
Baker Mayfield throws his first NFL exhibition touchdown pass.#OUDNA #Sooners pic.twitter.com/3AaX8IpKs3
— Sooner Gridiron (@soonergridiron) August 10, 2018
Mayfield’s best play of the night was one that Sooner fans saw him make countless times over the last three years as he scrambled out of the pocket and delivered a perfect pass to fellow rookie Antonio Callaway to keep a drive alive.
Another third down conversion for Mayfield. This was eventually ruled a catch.#OUDNA #Sooners pic.twitter.com/7o94D9KTsz
— Sooner Gridiron (@soonergridiron) August 10, 2018
Mayfield and Callaway hooked up again for a 54 yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter.
Baker Mayfield delivers a strike for his second touchdown pass of the night. #OUDNA #Sooners pic.twitter.com/K2jNwk34KN
— Sooner Gridiron (@soonergridiron) August 10, 2018
That second touchdown would be Mayfield’s final play of the night, capping off an impressive preseason debut. Take it with grain of salt because it’s the preseason and he was going against the second-team defense, but Browns fans should definitely feel encouraged about the future after Thursday night.
Baker and the Browns’ next game is Friday, August 17 at home against Buffalo. Until then, be sure to check them out on Hard Knocks.