5 bold predictions for Browns against Vikings
By John Buhler
4. Baker Mayfield will outperform Kirk Cousins in all major passing categories
Even though he won a Heisman Trophy in college and was the No. 1 overall pick, Baker Mayfield will forever play the quarterback position with a chip on his shoulder. This is a great intrinsic trait he has, but one he must continually refine as he progresses in his professional career. Going up against a comparable quarterback to some degree in Kirk Cousins, he must deliver for the Browns.
The good news for Mayfield and the Browns is their offense is far superior to that of the Vikings. Simply put, Mayfield will not have to press as much as Cousins will to potentially lead his team to victory. In the process, Mayfield will outperform Cousins in all major passing categories on Sunday. This will be the best game Mayfield plays in the first quarter of the season. He will play fantastic.
In terms of an overall stat line, look for Mayfield to complete 75 percent of his passes for north of 300 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He might even make a play or two with his legs to salvage a busted play call. We are looking at Mayfield playing one of his five best games as a professional on Sunday. He will play clean, he will play with confidence and he will play great.
This will be one of those games Mayfield will be able to build on heading into the rest of the year.