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[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 13 Poll: Are the Buccaneers trending up this week?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Heading into Week 13, we want to know how you’re feeling after watching the team so far this year. Every week of the season we will ask fans if they are confident the team is headed in the right direction and more of the most pressing questions facing the coming game. Let us know what you think!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/66282/buccaneers-survey-week-13-reacts

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFC Playoff Picture: Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ third straight loss puts division in jeopardy

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their third straight game on Sunday, and that opens the door for the Carolina Panthers to take the top spot in the division on Monday night.

Elsewhere in the NFC, the Los Angeles Rams moved ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles. L.A. beat the Bucs, as you know, while the Eagles lost to the Dallas Cowboys. The Chicago bears won to stay in the third position.

In the wild card race, the Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers both won to solidify their spots heading into Week 13. The San Francisco 49ers play on Monday night and could fall out of position with a loss to the Panthers.

The Detroit Lions would pass the 49ers if San Francisco loses. On the doorstep are the Carolina Panthers.

NFC South standings during Week 12​

With the second straight week of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers losing, the Carolina Panthers and the Buccaneers are tied above the NFC South for now. Tampa is undefeated in the division while Carolina has one loss, so the Bucs stay in first place for now. A win by Carolina on Monday night, and they move into the top spot.

The Falcons won this week to keep their faint hopes aline while the Saints did not.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-5, 2-0 NFCS)
2. Carolina Panthers (6-5, 2-1 NFCS)
3. Atlanta Falcons (4-7)
4. New Orleans Saints (2-9)

NFC standings during Week 12​

The Washington Commanders were on a bye this weekend.

1. Los Angeles Rams (9-2)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (8-3, 7-2 AFC)
3. Chicago Bears (8-3, 5-2 AFC)
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-5, 2-0 NFCS)
5. Seattle Seahawks (8-3)
6. Green Bay Packers (7-3-1)
7. San Francisco 49ers (7-4, 7-2 NFC)
8. Detroit Lions (7-4, 4-3 NFC)
9. Carolina Panthers (6-5, 2-1 NFCS)
10. Dallas Cowboys (5-5-1)
11. Atlanta Falcons (4-7, win over MIN)
12. Minnesota Vikings (4-7, loss to ATL)
12. Arizona Cardinals (3-8)
14. Washington Commanders (3-8)
15. New Orleans Saints (2-8)
16. e-New York Giants (2-10)

The New York Giants were eliminated from playoff contention with the loss.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...third-straight-loss-puts-division-in-jeopardy

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield leaves game against Rams with shoulder injury

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers just can’t seem to escape the injury bug in 2025. The latest to come down with injury is quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Mayfield scrambled for a first down in the first half of Sunday night’s game against the Rams where he was sandwiched between two defenders and another landing on him when he went down. He would eventually go into the medical tent on the sideline holding his left arm, and later to return to action.

However, as the Bucs quarterback tried to launch a pass deep down the field in the closing seconds of the first half, Mayfield’s throw didn’t have much on it and he immediately went down in pain. He ultimately walked off the field, but the team later announced his return was ‘doubtful’ as he was being evaluated for a let shoulder injury.

Veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater entered the game in the third quarter.

We may not know much more on Mayfield following this late matchup, but it is certainly something to monitor throughout this week.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ht-football-against-rams-with-shoulder-injury

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Rams: ‘Sunday Night Football’ live game discussion

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in Los Angeles this week as they are set to play the 8-2 Rams.

The Bucs will be without Bucky Irving and Haason Reddick once again along with Jamel Dean so others will have to step up and figure out a way to upset the Rams on their home turf on Sunday night. However, wide receiver Chris Godwin is active and will suit up. You can see the rest of the inactives here.

Kickoff is set for 8:20 PM EST. Enjoy each other’s company in the comments section!

Staff game picks and score predictions​

Gil Arcia (8-2): Rams 33, Bucs 24
Mike Kiwak (7-3): Rams 35, Bucs 21
Evan Wanish (8–2): Rams 30, Bucs 20
Will Walsh (7-3): Bucs 26, Rams 25

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ms-sunday-night-football-live-game-discussion

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Rams: Predictions and picks for Week 12

As the Buccaneers get set to take on the Rams in Los Angeles following their loss to the Buffalo Bills last week, we here at Bucs Nation will dive into some picks and predictions for Tampa Bay’s big Week 12 matchup against a tough NFC opponent.

Check it all out below.

---

Predictions​

Offense

Tampa Bay’s offense seemed to have gotten a spark from the run game last week against the Bills. However, Buffalo is all by last in the league against the run. This week, the Bucs will be facing a Los Angeles run defense that is sixth in the league in average yards per run. So Tampa Bay will rely on Baker Mayfield to lead the way to the tune of nearly 300 passing yards and three total touchdowns against that team that allowed him to feel rejuvenated after the Panthers cut him loose a couple seasons ago.

Defense

It does not get any easier for the Buccaneers defense this week as they will be facing another high-powered offense in the league. Despite their bottom half ranking inrushing yards, the Rams are sixth overall in passing offense and seventh in passing yards per play. Head coach Todd Bowles will likely send pressure early and often much like he did against the Bills. And as long as there are no blown assignments, Tampa Bay should get after Rams quarterback Matt Stafford easily regardless of their very successful pass protection. Look for the Bucs to record four sacks on Stafford.

---

Week 12 Staff Picks​

Gil Arcia (8-2): Rams 33, Bucs 24
Mike Kiwak (7-3): Rams 35, Bucs 21
Evan Wanish (8–2): Rams 30, Bucs 20
Will Walsh (7-3): Bucs 26, Rams 25

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ball-nfl-week-12-baker-mayfield-matt-stafford

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Davy Jones’ Locker: Buccaneers vs Rams Q&A with Turf Show Times

The Buccaneers are in a tough place right now. They have lost two straight games coming out of their bye week and have lost three of their last four games which has seen a 5-1 record suddenly become 6-4.

Things don’t get any easier either as they travel to Los Angeles to play the Rams on Sunday Night Football. The Rams are currently sitting at 8-2 and are arguably the best team in the entire NFL. To break down this primetime matchup, we chatted with Evan Craig of Turf Show Times to get some answers on what has made the Rams so dangerous this season.

1. The Rams have been one of the NFL’s best teams as of late. What has been the main reason or reasons for such success this season?​

“As of late, the Rams have found ways to play more complete games, which is something they greatly struggled with to begin the year. L.A. has jumped out to double-digit leads in each of their last four games against the Jaguars, Saints, 49ers and Seahawks, though the Seattle game wound up being more of a grind than it should’ve been. Either way, the team is figuring out how to play the full four quarters, and that has contributed to some of their recent dominance.

Overall, this is a very strong roster across the board, with almost every position carrying its weight. The defense has been spectacular with all its young guys up front, and the run game has been more balanced with second-year back Blake Corum getting more touches behind Kyren Williams. I genuinely believe this is the best supporting cast Matthew Stafford has had with the Rams, and he won a Super Bowl in his first year. Special teams is the only part of the roster that gives me pause, but this team has every bit of what it takes to be a title contender.“

2. How has the Davante Adams addition worked out for Los Angeles?​

“Davante Adams has been a great addition to this offense so far, though his yardage and reception totals leave plenty to be desired. He has just one 100-yard receiving performance, which came against the Titans in Week 2, and his highest reception total is six, a number he’s reached in two games this season.

Despite that, Davante is a touchdown machine. In the last four games, Adams has 7 touchdown receptions, including a 1-yard score on his lone catch against Seattle last week, which also happened to be his 1000th career reception. At this stage of his career, or at least how the Rams have utilized him, Adams isn’t going to put up a ton of yardage, yet he’ll always be a red zone threat. He has been a solid addition to the offense and the ideal partner-in-crime for Puka Nacua.“

3. Who is one underrated player on the Rams who could make a big difference in this game?​

“Veteran tight end Colby Parkinson is not exactly underrated, since he hasn’t done much in his Rams career aside from his production in the last month, but that might change soon.

Primary TE Tyler Higbee was placed on IR this week, so any of the other tight ends like Parkinson, Davis Allen and Terrance Ferguson could be in this spot here. I’m giving the nod to Parkinson because he’s had 2 touchdowns in the previous two games, part of which I attribute to my article from a month ago stating that it’s time to give up on him. He’s gradually come along, and with the team’s tendency to use larger personnel on offense, expect him to get more looks beginning with Sunday’s game.“

4. When looking at this matchup, what is the X factor positional battle that will go a long way in determining the winner?​

“The secondary for the Rams just got weaker after defensive back Quentin Lake was placed on IR this week. Lake has been outstanding this season and is a defensive captain, often calling out signals for the defense. His being out is a big loss for the defense. Los Angeles does have cornerback Roger McCreary, whom the team acquired at the deadline from the Titans, and CB Josh Wallace to help try and fill the gap.

However, with Lake out, the Rams have to figure out a plan in a hurry, or the defense is going to be hurting for the next month. This is one area that Baker Mayfield and TB’s wideouts should exploit to have the best chance at an upset.“

5. The Rams are currently a home favorite. What is your score prediction for this game?​

“Last week, I predicted a shootout between the Rams and Seahawks and that never materialized. L.A.’s defense mostly held Seattle in check and forced Sam Darnold to throw 4 interceptions. So, I’m predicting a lower-scoring game this week between these two NFC contenders. The Rams have been rock solid on defense all year long, and I think it’ll be too much for Baker Mayfield and an injury-riddled Bucs offense to handle. Matthew Stafford and Co. do just enough to pull out a win in a gritty one.

Rams 20 Buccaneers 13”

Thanks so much to Evan for doing this!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/...er-buccaneers-vs-rams-qa-with-turf-show-times

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Arizona Cardinals vs. Tampa Bay Bucs: Inactives for Week 13

The 6-5 Buccaneers begin their homestand with a matchup against the 3-8 Cardinals. The Bucs need a win to snap their mid-season backslide, as they’ve lost 3 in a row and 4 out of 5, and they face a prime opportunity to do so against a Cardinals team that has 1 win in their last 8 games.

Tampa is finally getting healthy, with several key players primed to return Sunday. Baker Mayfield, Bucky Irving, Jamel Dean, and Haason Reddick are all back, despite questions on Mayfield’s short-term availability due to a shoulder sprain suffered last Sunday in the team’s primetime drubbing against the Los Angeles Rams.

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For Irving, it will be the first time back since Week 4, and Reddick returns after missing the last month. Dean missed only one game after sustaining a minor hip injury against the Buffalo Bills. The Bucs will still be without rookie Benjamin Morrison, who sustained his third hamstring injury of the season late last week in practice and missed the Rams game.

The full list of inactives for both teams is below:

Inactives for #AZvsTB pic.twitter.com/MBhprjOL4G

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) November 30, 2025

Our inactives for today's game. #AZvsTB pic.twitter.com/C4BFkcIHWL

— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) November 30, 2025

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...inals-vs-tampa-bay-bucs-inactives-for-week-13

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Notes and stats from the Buccaneers 20-17 win over the Cardinals

– The Buccaneers defeated the Cardinals, 20-17, to move to 7-5 on the season. Tampa Bay remains in sole possession of first place in the NFC South, and has held at least a share of the division lead in 71 of the last 85 weeks, dating back to the 2021 season. The Buccaneers have won each of their last three games against the Cardinals – the team’s first three-game win streak over Arizona since 1989–92.

– Since the start of the 2023 season, the Buccaneers have the most wins (11) and the highest winning percentage (.846) of any NFL team in Weeks 13-18. They own the second-highest point differential (+122) in such games.

– Tampa Bay recorded two takeaways on the day – one fumble recovery and one interception. Their 18 takeaways this season are the sixth-most in the NFL this year, as of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games. Tampa Bay’s 11 interceptions on the season are the seventh-most.

– The Buccaneers limited Arizona to 95 yards rushing, marking their ninth game this season in which they did not allow their opponent to eclipse 100 rushing yards – tied for the most such games in the NFL this season, as of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games.

– Tampa Bay held the Cardinals to 3-of-8 (38%) on third downs, the eighth time this season in which it’s held an opponent to a 40% or fewer success rate. The eight such games are tied for the seventh-most in the NFL this year, as of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games.

– The Buccaneers finished with two sacks on the day, one from Yaya Diaby and one from Vita Vea. Paired with the two takeaways on the day, Sunday’s contest marked the fifth game this season in which the Tampa Bay recorded multiple takeaways and multiple sacks – tied for the most such performances in the NFL this year, as of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games.

– According to Next Gen Stats, Tampa Bay generated pressure on 53.3% of dropbacks against the Cardinals, the unit’s second-highest mark of the season. Five different Buccaneers defenders generated at least four pressures. Vita Vea, Logan Hall and Elijah Roberts all generated three quick pressures (in under 2.5 seconds).

– QB Baker Mayfield completed 18-of-28 passes (64.3%) for 194 yards and one touchdown with zero interceptions to earn a 96.4 passer rating on the day. Sunday’s contest marked Mayfield’s seventh game this season in which he recorded a passer rating of 96.0 or higher, tied for the sixth-most such performances by a quarterback this season. Mayfield connected with nine different Buccaneers receivers on Sunday, his most in a single game this season.

– Mayfield owns a 3.8 touchdown-to-interception ratio on the season. Among passers with at least 250 attempts on the year, it’s the fifth-best mark in the NFL.

– RB Bucky Irving led the Buccaneers in scrimmage yards in his first game back since being injured in Week 4, contributing 81 yards by way of 17 carries for 61 yards with one score and two catches for 20 yards. His rushing touchdown marked his first of the season, and his third overall scrimmage touchdown on the year.

– With his 81 scrimmage yards on Sunday, Irving eclipsed the 2,000 scrimmage yards milestone in the 22nd game of his career. In doing so, he became the third player in franchise history with 2,000+ scrimmage yards in their first 25 career games (Warrick Dunn, Doug Martin). The only other running backs drafted since 2018 with 2,000+ scrimmage yards in their first 22 career games played are Saquon Barkley, Jahmyr Gibbs, Josh Jacobs and Jonathan Taylor.

– WR Chris Godwin Jr. led Tampa Bay in receiving yards on Sunday, bringing in three catches for 78 yards. After missing the second half of the 2024 season due to injury, Godwin’s 78 receiving yards marked his most in a contest since Week 6 of the 2024 season against the New Orleans Saints.

– WR Emeka Egbuka tallied a team-high four catches for 42 yards in Sunday’s contest, extending his team-leading season totals to 52 catches for 791 yards and six touchdown catches. Through Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games, he ranks tied for first among all rookies in touchdown catches, second in receiving yards, and third in receptions.

– T Tristan Wirfs brought in a two-yard receiving touchdown from Baker Mayfield, marking his first career reception and his first touchdown of any kind. Wirfs became the fifth offensive lineman in franchise history to record a touchdown reception, joining Leonard Wester, Donald Penn, Randall McDaniel and Ron Heller. He is the first offensive lineman in the NFL to record a touchdown catch this year.

– TE Payne Durham recorded his first catch of the season, an 11-yard gain.

– LB SirVocea Dennis led Tampa Bay with 10 tackles – his third game with double-digit tackles this season – and added one quarterback hit on the day. He was the nearest defender on the team’s final defensive play of the day, a pass breakup, which secured the victory for Tampa Bay.

– S Antoine Winfield Jr. notched an interception in Sunday’s game, marking his second pick of the season and the ninth of his career. Winfield Jr. added seven tackles and one quarterback hit on the day.

– NT Vita Vea finished with two tackles (one for loss), three quarterback hits and 1.0 sack. With his sack, he increased his season total to 3.5 sacks and his career total to 34.0. In doing so, he surpassed Jason Pierre-Paul and Brad Culpepper (33.0) for sole possession of the ninth-most sacks in franchise history.

– OLB Yaya Diaby also tallied two tackles on the day (one for loss), two quarterback hits and 1.0 sack. His sack increased his season total to 6.0 and his career total to 13.0. Diaby has recorded sacks in consecutive games for the second time this season, joining Weeks 6-7.

– Diaby’s 18.0 career sacks are the third-most by a Buccaneers player through his first 46 games played, trailing only Warren Sapp (22.5) and Stylez G. White (19.5).

– DL Logan Hall recorded his first career forced fumble, which was recovered by Tykee Smith to mark his second fumble recovery on the season. Smith is the only player in the NFL this year to have 75+ tackles, three-or-more takeaways, and multiple sacks.

– K Chase McLaughlin went 2-for-2 on field goal tries on the day, connecting successfully from 25 yards and 57 yards out. McLaughlin is a perfect 9-for-9 on field goal tries from 50+ yards away this season, and his nine such makes are the most in the NFL as of Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games. McLaughlin is the fourth kicker since 2000 – and the first since Dallas’ Brandon Aubrey in 2023 – to have at least nine attempts of 50+ yards in a season and record a 100% success rate.

– P Riley Dixon punted five times for a 48.0 gross average and a 46.8 net average, including pinning three punts inside the Arizona 20-yard line and two inside the Arizona 10-yard line. His 46.8 net average was his third-highest mark in a game this season, and the highest in game in which he punted at least four times. Through Sunday’s 1:00 p.m. ET slate of games, Dixon’s 20 punts downed inside the opponent 20-yard line are tied for the fifth-most in the NFL, while his eight punts downed inside the opponent 10-yard line are tied for the sixth-most.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...arizona-cardinals-bucky-irving-baker-mayfield

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFL Week 14 Opening Odds: Buccaneers vs. Saints

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a 7-5 record after coming off a win against the Arizona Cardinals at home, getting back on the winning side of things as the Carolina Panthers inch closer to the top of the division standings. Tampa Bay has been able to overcome injuries for the most part and has gotten several players back, just in time for a tough division matchup at home against the New Orleans Saints.

How do the oddsmakers feel about this matchup for Tampa Bay? Per FanDuel, Tampa Bay is a 7.5-point favorite for Week 14 of the 2025 regular season.

Point spread: Bucs -7.5
Point total: 42.5
Moneyline: Bucs -400, Saints +315

The Saints dropped to 2-9 on the season following their 21-17 loss to the Miami Dolphins Sunday. In their last meeting, the Bucs won convincingly 23-3 in New Orleans. The Saints will be certainly looking to even the season series in Week 14.

Next week’s game between the Bucs and Saints is scheduled for Sunday with kickoff set for 1:00 PM ET.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ening-odds-buccaneers-saints-betting-gambling

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFC Playoff Picture: Tampa Bay Buccaneers stay atop NFC South

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers righted the ship on Sunday, winning to keep the NFC South lead they lost for the briefest of moments. The Carolina Panthers moved into first place for a few minutes until Tampa’s game ended.

The top three spots are all shook up after Week 13 with the Chicago Bears moving to the top spot but beating Philly on Black Friday. The Los Angeles Rams lost on Sunday to move down to second. The Philadelphia Eagles settle into third.

The Seattle Seahawks blanked the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday afternoon, and Seattle would be the team to face the Bucs if the playoffs started today.

We will continue to update.

NFC South standings after Week 13​

The Panthers and Buccaneers both won on Sunday, so the order stays the same with Tampa Bay in first and the Panthers just behind them. The New Orleans Saints were eliminated from the division race while the Falcons lost at the final buzzer.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)
2. Carolina Panthers (7-6)
3. Atlanta Falcons (4-8)
4. New Orleans Saints (2-10)

NFC standings during Week 13​

1. Chicago Bears (9-3, 6-2 AFC)
2. Los Angeles Rams (9-3, win over SEA, 4-3 NFC)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (8-4)
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)
5. Seattle Seahawks (9-3, loss to LAR)
6. Green Bay Packers (8-3-1)
7. San Francisco 49ers (9-4)
8. Detroit Lions (7-5)
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-5-1)
10. Carolina Panthers (7-6)
11. Atlanta Falcons (4-8)
12. Minnesota Vikings (4-7)
13. Washington Commanders (3-8)
14. Arizona Cardinals (3-9)
15. New Orleans Saints (2-9)
16. e-New York Giants (2-10)

The New York Giants were eliminated from playoff co

The New York Giants were eliminated from playoff contention previously and now the Arizona Cardinals are also eliminated along with the Saints.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ture-tampa-bay-buccaneers-stay-atop-nfc-south

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Week 13 Top Performers vs. Arizona Cardinals

For the first time in more than a month, the Buccaneers and their fans again experience victory — though one would hardly call it a particularly encouraging one.

Clunkiness on offense and defense continued to plague Tampa, but enough plays from both sides led to a narrow 20-17 win against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday.

The win pushes Tampa’s record to 7-5 and finally stops the bleeding caused by the team’s annual mid-season slump, as it’s the first W since Oct. 26 against the Saints. It also narrowly holds off the resurgent Carolina Panthers, who sit at 7-6 (the two rivals meet up for the first time in three weeks).

Let’s do some shoutouts and see if the Bucs can build on their moment next week against the flailing New Orleans Saints.

Offensive Top Performer: RB Bucky Irving​

Without the spark Irving’s long-awaited return provided, it’s very arguable that the Bucs would have lost.

Irving returned from his battle through shoulder and foot injuries (as well as related mental health struggles) suffered in Week 4 and made a huge impact. The second-year dynamo notched 19 total touches to easily outpace Rachaad White (5) and Sean Tucker (2), turning them into a very efficient 61 rushing yards and 20 receiving yards to go along with a TD. He weaved around tackles, hit the joystick on defenders, and generally looked like his old self, which is massively important for an offense that has been sputtering.

Bucky Irving is back in the end zone!

AZvsTB on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/q3j5PMZoev

— NFL (@NFL) November 30, 2025

Ideally, you’d like to see the other two more involved, and White did have a touchdown taken away on a questionable OPI penalty, but overall this was a sight for sore eyes.

Another relief came from Chris Godwin, who has continued his uphill battle through leg injuries to make his most prominent impact of the season. Godwin corralled 3 big catches for 78 total yards to lead the team, and he could’ve posted an even better outing if he had held onto an easy TD catch in the first half. There’s still rust to shake off, but there’s clearly still an impactful player wearing No. 14 for Tampa Bay.

But, is there any argument against the best receiver of the day being TRISTAN WIRFS?? The big man made his first career catch and touchdown on a marvelous playcall in the second quarter. Clean release, soft hands, what can’t this man do?

TRISTAN WIRFS RECEIVING TD

AZvsTB on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/p8kDcfxbUw

— NFL (@NFL) November 30, 2025

Defensive Top Performer: S Antoine Winfield Jr.​

The defense looked lazy and undisciplined again, and it’s officially panic time on that front.

The issues with blown assignments, tackling, and overall effort are an indictment on Todd Bowles, and it’s really questionable how he’s going to fix it during this stretch run. That said, some credit must be given for a couple critical 4th and short stops — one of the few areas where the unit has been reliable this year, as it has allowed only 6 conversions out of 14 attempts on 4th and 2 or shorter.

In terms of individual performances, Winfield Jr. showed up well as usual. On top of some big-time tackles (finished with 7 total) in the run game to cover his teammates’ lackluster attempts, he also corralled a red zone interception on Arizona’s opening drive to keep points off the board.

Antoine Winfield Jr. picks off Brissett!

AZvsTB on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXnxV pic.twitter.com/92y9DeHkE1

— NFL (@NFL) November 30, 2025

And while he’s been much-maligned for a majority of the year (mostly deserved), SirVocea Dennis made some big plays that need to be acknowledged. He broke up the pass on the final fourth down, his first pass defensed of the year, and he also created an intentional grounding on a well-played blitz. He made 10 total tackles to lead the team, and while there some misses in there, he’s been better than awful so that should be applauded a little.

Special Teams Top Performer: K Chase McLaughlin​

Money McLaughlin, crown him.

The Buccaneers again rode his golden foot to victory, as his 57-yarder in the fourth quarter proved the deciding score. The kick was his NFL-best 9th of 50 yards or more, and it was his 22nd such kick since joining the Bucs — he’s missed only three 50-yarders in that timeframe, for comparison.

Chase McLaughlin sets a Buccaneers franchise RECORD with his ninth 50+ yard FG! pic.twitter.com/4Vgsmtl5Vt

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) November 30, 2025

Riley Dixon also posted another great day. He averaged 48 yards per kick on 5 punts, including three that were pinned in the 20. His final punt, downed at the 8, proved critical to keeping the Cardinals far away from field goal range and letting the defense pin its ears back. He’s now just outside the top 5 in punts pinned inside the 20, a welcome turnaround from his early-year struggles.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...s-week-13-top-performers-vs-arizona-cardinals

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 13 Game Recap: Buccaneers pull out another close game, beat the Cardinals 20-17

First Quarter:​

Another week where the Buccaneers began the game with the football but did not open with points, one first down and one punt. The Buccaneers’ defense has had its ups this season, but there have been downs aplenty. Arizona’s opening drive featured both those ups and downs. Arizona ran at will and moved the ball deep in Tampa territory, however, the drive netted zero points when Jamel Dean undercut a crossing route, tipping the ball in the air for Antoine Winfield Jr. to snag— Interception, Tampa Bay. A scoreless opening quarter in Tampa Bay, 0-0 with 0:00 on the clock.

Second Quarter:​

With eight minutes and two minutes left in the game’s second quarter, the scoreboard operator at Raymond James Stadium finally had to clock in. The Bucs’ offense strung together some efficient runs in combination with a deep ball to Chris Godwin and slid all the way into the red zone— Their kryptonite. A dropped pass in the end zone forced Tampa to settle for a short field goal. 3-0, Tampa Bay.

Moments before the two-minute warning, the Buccaneers scored their first touchdown of the game until— Referees chimed in. Offensive pass interference on Tez Johnson erased Tampa’s score, but there wouldn’t be any need to fret because the Buccaneers would score again. After working back down to the goal line, a toss play to Bucky Irving would give the back a clear lane and allow him to cruise into the end zone until— Referees chimed in. A holding penalty on Bucky’s lead blocker, Payne Durham, pulled the seven points back off the board. While removing those touchdowns may have annoyed Bucs’ fans in the moment, they set the stage for one of the season’s greatest plays. Under center on third down and goal, the Buccaneers ran a play action pass and flipped the ball out to Tristan Wirfs on the backside of the play for a wide open walk-in score. Wirfs’ first career catch doubled as his first career score. 10-0, Bucs.

Up 10-0, Todd Bowles got greedy. His defense had Jacoby Brissett backed up and facing a third down and nine. Bowles, under the impression the Buccaneers’ defense would get off the field and give his offense another opportunity at points call ed a timeout. Post Tampa’s time out, Brissett proceeded to complete the third down pass attempt and catch a small bit of fire and lead the Cardinals into field goal range. 10-3, Buccaneers.

Third Quarter:​

With turnovers being a big part of the reason Tampa’s lead was Tampa’s lead the defense would go back to the well one more time as the game’s second half got under way. A solid Cardinal drive stumbled as Bam Knight fumbled. Tykee Smith’s recovery gave the Bucs the ball and favorable field position. They favored punting as more penalties and opposing pass-rush sent Tampa’s offense back off the field.

The two Cardinal drives that bookended Sunday’s intermission were very Yin and Yang. After making a last-second field goal to close out the first half, Chad Ryland would kick off half number two with the polar opposite— Wide right, a missed kick, no points, and another chance for Tampa Bay’s offense with good field position.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Baker Mayfield and the Bucs’ offense found a bit of a strut. A third and long conversion Mayfield finding Emeka Egbuka over the middle of the field for a first down, then beating the blitz with a quick strike to Chris Godwin. The long catch and run from Godwin served up Bucky Irving, re-earning the touchdown he earned earlier, if not for a flying yellow hanky. 17-3, Buccaneers.

Following a long touchdown-less drought, the third quarter of Sunday’s game saw them in bunches. After Bucky Irving’s score, Arizona came right back with a touchdown drive of their own— Their first of the game. 17-10 Buccaneers, after a Jacoby Brissett scramble and toss across the goal line.

Fourth Quarter:​

Trailing by just seven points, the Cardinals’ offense had the ball and a small rumbling of momentum. Field position wasn’t great, inside their own 20, however, momentum is a fickle lover. A big third down conversion for Arizona created a new set of downs. That new set of downs would meet a fourth down attempt. That fourth down attempt would meet Anthony Nelson— Turnover on downs. The Buccaneers would take over and add a field goal. 20-10, Bucs. 20-10 rapidly became 20-17 as Jacoby Brissett to Trey McBride continued to give Bucs’ fans headaches.

Over the past few weeks, Todd Bowles has taken a lot of heat. The Bucs have been bad (0-3), but the team’s defense has been atrocious. That was a trend that many fans had hoped would come to end today. While Arizona’s offense is certainly not bad they are bad overall team. That combined with the return of Hasson Reddick had generated some hope that this week would be different. Although the game featured its highlights and lowlights, after Trey McBride’s score Josh Grizzard’s group was unable to control the ball till zeros were on the clock. Bowles’ defense took the field with a chance to be closers. A three point lead to protect and a crucial victory hanging in the balance— Close is what they did. A finally stop allowing Tampa to maintain their slight lead in the NFC South.

For more Bucs coverage check us out here:

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-buccaneers-pull-out-another-close-game-20-17

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan return to practice

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers today opened the21-day practice window for wide receivers Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. They are eligible to be activated off of Injured Reserve at any time during the 21-day window.

Evans (6-5, 231) was placed on Injured Reserve on October 22. Prior to getting injured, Evans had appeared in four games for Tampa Bay this season, bringing in 14 receptions for 140 yards. He originally entered the league as a first-round selection (No. 7 overall) by the Buccaneers in the 2014 NFL Draft. Evans, a six-time Pro Bowler, has appeared in 172 career games for Tampa Bay, totaling 850 receptions for 12,824 receiving yards with 106 receiving touchdowns. The club’s all-time leading scorer, Evans holds the franchise record for catches, receiving yards, and touchdowns. He wears No. 13 for Tampa Bay.

McMillan (6-1, 192) was placed on Injured Reserve on August 26, and has yet to appear in a game for Tampa Bay this season. He originally entered the league as a third-round selection (No. 92 overall) by the Buccaneers in the 2024 NFL Draft. McMillan has appeared in 13 career games for Tampa Bay, bringing in 37 receptions for 461 yards and eight receiving touchdowns. As a rookie last year, McMillan ranked second in the NFL in receiving touchdowns by rookies, and his eight touchdown catches were the third-most by a rookie in franchise history. He wears No. 11 for Tampa Bay.

(Courtesy of the Buccaneers Communications Department.)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba.../mike-evans-jalen-mcmillan-return-to-practice

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers vs. Cardinals: 2025 NFL Week 13 Game Discussion

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are home this week as they are set to play the 3-8 Cardinals.

The Bucs will see the return of Bucky Irving and Haason Reddick so they will certainly get some much needed help back on their home turf. You can see the rest of the inactives here.

Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM EST. Enjoy each other’s company in the comments section!

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Staff game picks and score predictions​

Gil Arcia (9-2): Bucs 24, Cardinals 16
Mike Kiwak (8-3): Bucs 28, Cardinals 17
Evan Wanish (9-2): Bucs 23, Cardinals 20
Will Walsh (7-4): Bucs 22, Cardinals 15

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...aneers-cardinals-2025-nfl-week-13-open-thread

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 14 Poll: Will the Buccaneers keep it rolling this week?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Heading into Week 14, we want to know how you’re feeling after watching the team so far this year. Every week of the season we will ask fans if they are confident the team is headed in the right direction and more of the most pressing questions facing the coming game. Let us know what you think!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/66339/week-14-poll-will-the-buccaneers-keep-it-rolling-this-week

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers vs. Saints: 2025 NFL Week 14 Game Discussion

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are home this week as they are set to play the 2-10 Saints.

The Bucs will look to make it two game in a row with a win against an NFC South opponent. They will have to do it without left tackle Tristan Wirfs and wide receivers Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. You can see the rest of the inactives here.

Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM EST. Enjoy each other’s company in the comments section!

Join the conversation!​

Sign up for a user account and get:

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• Create community posts
• Comment on articles, community posts
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• New, improved notifications system!

Staff game picks and score predictions​

Gil Arcia (10-2): Bucs 30, Saints 17
Mike Kiwak (9-3): Bucs 24, Saints 10
Evan Wanish (10–2): Bucs 26, Saints 16
Will Walsh (8-4): Bucs 27, Saints 16

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-2025-nfl-week-14-game-discussion-open-thread

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Week 14 Top Performers vs. New Orleans Saints

The book on the 2025 Buccaneers is nearly penned, and it’s not shaping up to be a happy ending.

The Bucs’ precipitous nosedive continued Sunday after a shaky course correction attempt last week, as the home team floundered in poor weather against a divisional rival in a 24-20 defeat at the hands of the New Orleans Saints. Pretty much no part of the team inspired confidence, with all three phases experiencing game-breaking issues that hampered it against a (now) 3-win Saints team.

We’re in the part of the season where teams should be hitting their stride. Instead, the Bucs have lost 5 of their last 7 and have one win since their bye week. Baker Mayfield has been terribly ineffective, injuries keep mounting, the defense is toothless, and special teams continues to have inexcusable lapses every week.

I’m doing shoutouts because it’s my job, but nothing that has transpired in the last 6 weeks should be inspiring any degree of confidence heading into a Thursday night tilt against Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons. What could go wrong?

Offensive Top Performer: RB Bucky Irving​

An ankle injury limited Irving some later in the game, which will need monitored, but his explosiveness again bailed out an otherwise paltry offensive attack.

He scored his second touchdown in as many weeks on a 24-yard screen and logged another explosive later in the form of a 32-yard scamper. His 81 total yards on 17 touches paced the Bucs, so it would be devastating to see him sidelined once more.

Bucky Irving weaves in for the 24-yard TD!

NOvsTB on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/vBANcLPeOU

— NFL (@NFL) December 7, 2025

Rachaad White played well again, with 11 carries for 53 yards, and Sean Tucker got more involved (7 carries for 29 yards and a score) after disappearing last week. Overall, the three-headed attack worked well most of the day, and it’d be nice to maintain that balance on a consistent basis.

Not much else to say otherwise. Chris Godwin kept showing off his regained form, leading all receivers with 5 catches for 55 yards. With Emeka Egbuka severely regressing and the other targets not doing enough, his re-insertion into the lineup as been much needed.

Defensive Top Performer: NT Vita Vea​

If this defense didn’t create turnovers and sacks at higher-than-average levels, I shutter to think about how bad the numbers would look.

This is not a good unit, there’s no denying it anymore. And it’s the same issues they keep having year after year: the coverage and pass rush don’t support each other, nobody can finish plays consistently, miscommunications and busts are rampant.

What are Todd Bowles, Larry Foote, and Co. doing each week? Where is all this dissonance coming from when you’ve had largely the same coaches running the same scheme for many years, as well as the same players operating within that scheme? I cannot fathom how Bowles could possibly explain this away any longer.

Simply put, if there isn’t a massive turnaround in the final four games, it’s hard to see a world where he continues to coach the Bucs.

Anyway, Vita Vea was, and has been, a wrecking ball most of this year and that was also true Sunday. He dominated the Saints’ interior to the tune of 5 total tackles and a sack. Greg Gaines played fairly well too with 3 tackles and a sack of his own.

Antoine Winfield Jr. and Jamel Dean played very well, logging 5 and 4 tackles respectively. Not much can be said for the rest of the secondary, as Zyon McCollum continued to look horrible. Paying him might’ve been a mistake.

Special Teams Top Performer: K Chase McLaughlin​

McLaughlin made all his kicks in very tough field conditions, he’s very good; pretty much one of few “plus” players on the entire special teams unit.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-week-14-top-performers-vs-new-orleans-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFL Week 15 Opening Odds: Buccaneers vs. Falcons

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a 7-6 record after coming off a loss against the New Orleans Saints at home, giving the Carolina Panthers a share of the NFC South lead. Tampa Bay has been able to overcome injuries for the most part but their play since the bye week has not been one to be proud of. And now they have a quick turnaround this week as they host the Atlanta Falcons at home on Thursday night.

How do the oddsmakers feel about this upcoming matchup for Tampa Bay? Per FanDuel, Tampa Bay is a 5.5-point favorite for Week 15 of the 2025 regular season.

Point spread: Bucs -5.5
Point total: 43.5
Moneyline: Bucs -255, Falcons +210

The Falcons dropped to 4-9 on the season following their 37-9 loss to the Seattle Seahawks Sunday. In their last meeting, the Bucs won 23-20 in Atlanta. The Falcons will be looking to even the season series in Week 15.

Next week’s game between the Bucs and Falcons is scheduled for Thursday with kickoff set for 8:15 PM ET.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-falcons-thursday-night-footbal-gambling-odds

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers playoff picture: What Week 14 vs. Saints means for NFC standings

There’s no question about how this game should have gone. The Bucs were on top of the NFC South, with five whole wins more than the Saints, a team with a dismal 2-10 record heading into Sunday’s matchup. But it is any given Sunday in this league, and the Bucs now sit at 7-6, dead even with the Panthers. The Panthers and Bucs have yet to face off this season, with both divisional matchups scheduled for Week 16 and Week 18, respectively.

The Panthers are almost certainly the only team in the NFC South that has a chance to unseat the Bucs as division champions. The Saints have already been eliminated from playoff contention. The Falcons are a complete and utter disaster, and they’re also eliminated from playoff contention after Sunday’s 37-9 loss to the Seahawks.

It’s still the Bucs’ division to lose, and today’s loss doesn’t change that. But it does bump the Seahawks right into that top NFC Spot.

Update after the late afternoon slate:

That didn’t last long! The Packers’ win over the Bears shook up the top of the NFC standings, but the Buccaneers stay in that No. 4 spot.

Update after Monday Night Football:

An Eagles’ loss to the Los Angeles Chargers didn’t change anything but Philly’s win-loss record. They’ve still got the top spot in the NFC East, and the Bucs will also head into Week 15 on top of the NFC South and seeded in at No. 4.

NFC playoff standings​

1. Los Angeles Rams 10-3
2. Green Bay Packers: 9-3-1
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 8-5
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-6
5. Seattle Seahawks: 10-3
6. San Francisco 49ers: 9-4
7. Chicago Bears: 9-4
8. Detroit Lions: 8-5
9. Carolina Panthers: 7-6
10. Dallas Cowboys: 6-6-1

NFC South standings​

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7-6
2. Carolina Panthers 7-6
3. Atlanta Falcons 4-9 (eliminated)
4. New Orleans Saints 3-10 (eliminated)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...south-standings-seeding-wild-card-tiebreakers

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 14 Game Recap: Buccaneers lose to a bad Saints team, 24-20

First Quarter:​

Tampa Bay’s kick coverage unit might manage to give a flag football team good starting field position if we ever saw the matchup. For the umpteenth week in a row the Buccaneers allowed a hefty kick return right across midfield. With the field position of dreams, Tyler Shough engineered a fantastic opening drive picking apart the middle of the field, adding in a read option, and finished by handing the ball off for the first rushing touchdown of Devin Neal’s career. 7-0, Saints.

Can the Buccaneers respond? They can. Unfortunately, for Kameron Johnson he does not get to run back his kicks against Tampa Bay’s special teams unit. After setting up Tampa Bay just shy of the 35-yardline, Johnson got to look on— Watching Baker Mayfield, Bucky Irving, and Chris Godwin give Tampa Bay fans a reminder of what it feels like to he alive.

Mayfield started off 5/5, tossing the ball for 60 yards. 21 and 26 yards receiving for Chris Godwin and Bucky Irving respectfully, got Tampa Bay seven points of their own when the latter caught a short screen pass and took it the distance. 7-7, All even.

Second Quarter:​

Quarter number two started out tied. Following a failed fourth down attempt by Josh Grizzard’s offense, the Saints pushed into field goal range. The missed kick by New Orleans, would not be capitalized on as the Bucs’ offense would follow up with Riley Dixon. New Orleans’ next drive was Zyon McCollum’s. A miscommunication on a deep ball from Shough gave Tampa’s corner one of the easiest interception opportunities of his career. Cashing in on the chance, McCollum set his offense up with fantastic starting field position. Chase McLaughlin booted the ball through the uprights and gave Tampa their first lead of the day. 10-7, Bucs.

The score still sat at a three point differential when the first half hit its two-minute warning. A long final two minutes would conclude with a Baker Mayfield heave into the end zone that would fall harmlessly to the ground. 10-7 at the half of a rain-filled slog in Tampa Bay.

Third Quarter:​

With the ball first and the first turnover of the second half, Tampa Bay’s momentum went from a downpour to misting. While the weather suffered no such decrescendo, Tyler Shough took Baker Mayfield’s interception and turned it into a score— A read option carry and a long touchdown run for Shough gave the lead back to New Orleans. 14-10, Saints.

The Bucs’ offense has played a good bit of games without their superstars this season. Bucky Irving, one of the superstars to miss time this year, has seen his backups featured quite often. Throughout that process, new stars have shined, most notably Sean Tucker— Tampa’s third string runner, who flashed an ability to take over games if called upon. With Irving stalled in the Raymond James Stadium mud (11 carries for 18 yards, 1.6 yards per rush), Josh Grizzard made a rare, highly positive strategic adjustment. Trailing for the first time since the game’s first quarter, Grizzard turned away from Bucky Irving and gave the Saints a dose of Sean Tucker. Tucker, a runner with a vastly different playstyle than Irving, took Tampa right down the field. On a drive that featured runs, runs, and a few more runs, Sean Tucker speared New Orleans’ defense and a carried them into the end zone with him as he crossed the goal line. 17-14, Buccaneers.

Responding to Tampa Bay’s touchdown, New Orleans got some points for their own— Adding another field goal and leaving the game tied at 17.

Fourth Quarter:​

A Tampa Bay turnover on downs provided Bucs’ fans with an uneasy start the final quarter. New Orleans’ next drive would do nothing to quell that uneasy sensation. Missed tackles, dropped interceptions, third downs allowed, and just a general lack of quality football left those in attendance watching Tyler Shough run in his second touchdown of the day. 24-17, Saints.

Three and a half quarters into a miserable rainy Sunday, Bucky Irving finally hit the gas and broke a long run. Irving’s run put Emeka Egbuka in the perfect position for a wide open dropped touchdown pass. Settling for a short field goal the Bucs slimmed New Orleans’ lead to four. 24-20, New Orleans.

Tampa Bay’s formerly great, transitioned to reliable, fell to solid, ultimately dipped to just okay, and has now slipped to bad, defense allowed Tyler Shough (A bottom-five, rookie quarterback) to run the clock down inside the two-minute warning.

1:48 seconds, no timeouts, and a chance at victory— A situation that favored Tampa Bay and Baker Mayfield like a father with his first-born son, has become the perfect personification of how far the team has fallen. The 2025 Tampa Bay Buccaneers were good, maybe even great, they are no longer. The Bucs are still 7-6 with everything in front of them, but they are not to be taken seriously until further notice.

For more Bucs coverage check us out here:

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Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ap-buccaneers-lose-to-a-bad-saints-team-24-20