TAMPA, FL – Despite battling rib and ankle injuries, Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield led the Buccaneers to a 32-9 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round. This win marked the Buccaneers’ largest playoff victory since their Super Bowl XXXVII win. Mayfield threw for 337 yards and three touchdowns, becoming the first Buccaneer to accomplish this feat in a postseason game.
Mayfield faced adversity leading up to the game, as he had suffered a rib injury two weeks prior and an ankle injury in the previous week. To aid in his recovery, Mayfield enlisted the help of his personal physiotherapist who flew in twice during the week. Despite limited practice time, Mayfield persevered and delivered an outstanding performance.
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles praised Mayfield’s determination and resilience. “He gutted it out…he never flinched, and he made play after play after play,” Bowles said. Mayfield’s leadership and encouragement on the sideline played a crucial role in keeping the team’s energy positive.
The game started with a 28-yard field goal from Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin. Mayfield then connected with wide receiver David Moore for a 44-yard touchdown, extending the Buccaneers’ lead to 10-0. McLaughlin added two more field goals in the second quarter. A safety from Anthony Nelson in the third quarter provided a momentum boost, followed by a 56-yard touchdown pass to rookie Trey Palmer. In the fourth quarter, Mayfield found wide receiver Chris Godwin for a 23-yard touchdown.
Mayfield’s performance impressed his teammates, with outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett stating, “I knew Baker was going to be special for us once he won the job.” Despite facing drops from his receiving targets in the first half, Mayfield remained focused and continued to rely on his teammates.
With the victory over the Eagles, the Buccaneers set their sights on the upcoming road game against the Detroit Lions in the divisional round. The Buccaneers embraced their underdog status, viewing it as a part of their “revenge tour.” Inside linebacker Devin White emphasized the team’s confidence and belief in each other, disregarding the predictions made by outsiders.
The upcoming matchup against the Lions holds significance for the Buccaneers, as they aim to avenge their earlier loss to Detroit. The Lions, currently 6-point favorites, defeated the Los Angeles Rams in a close game. The Buccaneers will rely on their strong roster and coaching staff to overcome the odds and continue their journey in the playoffs.
Mayfield, reflecting on his journey over the past year, acknowledged the ups and downs but remained focused on the team’s goals. “This one’s great…but our sights are set for bigger goals, so on to the next one,” Mayfield stated.
The Buccaneers’ victory against the Eagles showcased Mayfield’s resilience and leadership, further solidifying his role as the team’s starting quarterback. As they prepare for their upcoming playoff game against the Lions, the Buccaneers remain confident in their abilities and determined to prove their doubters wrong.