Baker Mayfield’s debut for Rams results in dramatic win over Raiders

There is only one thing that needs to be done to fully utilize Baker Mayfield’s talent — find the right team that will give him the opportunity to excel. After being selected by the Los Angeles Rams, Mayfield made his debut on December 8. He led the team to a dramatic 17-16 comeback victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

In the game, the former Oklahoma State University quarterback orchestrated a game-winning drive and passed to wide-open receiver Van Jefferson for a touchdown with only 10 seconds remaining. His performance helped the struggling team end its six-game losing streak.

After the game, Mayfield said he was initially angry about the changes he had to go through after the Carolina Panthers released him. However, the 27-year-old play-caller quickly adapted to the new environment and the Rams’ playing style.

With the team behind by 10 points in the first quarter, Mayfield entered the game. He knew he wouldn’t start, but the former Cleveland Browns QB was still prepared to play, saying that he and the other players were just watching how starting QB John Wolford was doing.

Mayfield went on to complete 22 of 35 passes for 230 yards in his debut with the Rams. He led the team on a 17-play drive that ended with a 1-yard run by Cam Akers.

It’s unlikely that Los Angeles and Mayfield can make the playoffs, but with the loss of Jimmy Garoppolo for the San Francisco 49ers, the door is still open for the Rams to make a late push.

Meanwhile, for the Raiders, the loss was another head-scratching one, especially due to how they started the game. QB Derek Carr and the offense went 75 yards in 12 plays, which ended with a touchdown by running back Josh Jacobs.

The Raiders’ defense could limit the damage that the Rams could do, and they recognized how Mayfield was learning the offense. However, Carr was unable to sustain drives in the second half, which resulted in the team only being able to score one field goal.