The Tampa Bay Buccaneers find themselves in uncharted territory in 2024, grappling with injuries to their two top pass-catching options, Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Despite this significant setback, the team isn’t ready to throw in the towel on the season just yet. Head coach Todd Bowles made it clear that maintaining composure and making smart decisions is crucial as the Buccaneers navigate this challenging period.
In their Week 8 showdown against the Atlanta Falcons, a 31-26 loss that left Tampa Bay at .500 (4-4), quarterback Baker Mayfield had a mixed performance. He completed 37 of 50 passes for 330 yards, throwing three touchdowns but also tossing two costly interceptions. With nine interceptions on the season, including seven in the last three games, Mayfield’s decision-making has come under scrutiny.
Bowles Urges Caution
After the game, Bowles emphasized the importance of taking what the defense gives and avoiding unnecessary risks. “It’s understanding we’re in scoring position and trying not to force every ball,” he told Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times. “Sometimes three points are better than a turnover.” This statement underlines the delicate balance Mayfield must strike: being aggressive enough to lead the offense while exercising caution to protect the ball.
A Pattern of Turnovers
Mayfield’s struggles with turnovers are not new; they have been a recurring theme throughout his career. After being selected first overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2018 NFL Draft, he struggled early on, throwing 35 interceptions in his first two seasons, including a staggering 21 in 2019. However, he found his footing in 2020, posting career-best numbers with 26 touchdowns against just eight interceptions, leading the Browns to their first playoff victory in nearly three decades.
In his first season with the Buccaneers in 2023, Mayfield displayed flashes of brilliance, throwing for a career-high 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns, but also had 10 interceptions. The organization made a significant investment in him this offseason, signing him to a three-year, $100 million contract, but the expectations are high, especially as injuries have depleted the receiving corps.
Looking Ahead
With Godwin out for the season due to a dislocated ankle and Evans sidelined until at least Week 11 with a hamstring injury, the Buccaneers face a daunting schedule. Upcoming games against the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs and the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers will test their depth and resilience.
In the absence of his star receivers, Mayfield’s primary target against the Falcons was tight end Cade Otton, who delivered with nine receptions for 81 yards and two touchdowns. However, with the November 5 NFL trade deadline approaching, the Buccaneers may need to consider adding a reliable receiver. Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggested that acquiring Jakobi Meyers from the Las Vegas Raiders could provide a much-needed boost as they await the return of Evans.
Conclusion
The road ahead for Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers is challenging, but it’s not insurmountable. With the right adjustments and a focus on smart decision-making, they can keep their playoff hopes alive. As they prepare to face elite competition in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Mayfield to see if he can rise to the occasion and lead his team through this injury crisis.
