TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are focused on keeping their ambitions realistic as they enter the final stretch of the regular season. Following a decisive 30-7 victory over the New York Giants, the Bucs are now facing a series of six games against notably weaker opponents, with five of those teams currently holding losing records. This win marked an important recovery after a four-game losing streak and has positioned the Bucs (5-6), three-time champions of the NFC South, just one game behind division leaders Atlanta.
While the Buccaneers are in a stronger position to pursue their fifth straight playoff invitation, they are aware that a less challenging schedule does not guarantee success. Quarterback Baker Mayfield emphasized the importance of seizing their opportunities one week at a time. “We’re hopeful this builds our confidence. We recognize we’re the ones in control of our own destiny, but this won’t come easy,” said Mayfield. “It’s crucial we replicate our successful approach each week.”
The Bucs’ schedule features just one remaining opponent with a winning record—a matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, who were sitting at 7-3 as they prepared to face Baltimore. Over the next six weeks, Tampa Bay will play division rival Carolina (3-8) twice, while also hosting the struggling Las Vegas Raiders (2-9) and the New Orleans Saints (4-7). Additionally, they will take to the road to face both the Chargers and the Dallas Cowboys (4-7).
Rookie running back Bucky Irving reminded the team that complacency cannot settle in. “We need to keep pushing forward and maintain our momentum,” noted Irving.
Offensively, the Buccaneers have been impressive, amassing 450 total yards against the Giants. This marked the fifth instance this season that they have exceeded 400 yards in a game and the sixth time they have scored over 30 points, trailing only Buffalo in the league.
On the other hand, while the team’s performance against the Giants was commendable, head coach Todd Bowles recognized areas for improvement. He felt both the offense and defense could have executed with better effectiveness in finishing the game. “Overall, we performed well on both sides, but we want to be sure we’re closing strong,” Bowles stated. “The team returned from the bye with enhanced mental toughness and readiness.”
In terms of individual performances, Irving shone brightly, averaging over seven yards per carry with a total of 87 rushing yards on 12 attempts. He also contributed significantly to the passing game, making six catches for 64 yards, culminating in a personal best of 151 yards from scrimmage.
However, there was a setback on the injury front for the Buccaneers. After seeing improvements in their defensive lineup, safety Jordan Whitehead (pectoral) and linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (ankle) left the game with injuries. Bowles indicated that updates on Whitehead’s condition are still pending, while Tryon-Shoyinka is dealing with an ankle sprain. Additionally, tackle Tristan Wirfs (knee) was unavailable against the Giants and his situation will be re-evaluated as the week progresses.
A noteworthy statistic from the game was Mayfield’s ability to connect with 11 different receivers after Mike Evans returned from a hamstring injury, tying a Bucs franchise record in the process. “Even when he doesn’t have the ball, his presence changes the game dramatically,” Mayfield praised.
Looking ahead, the Buccaneers are set to face the Carolina Panthers next, marking their second game in a row against teams at the lower end of the standings. “Every matchup within the NFC South presents its own challenges, and none will be easy,” Bowles remarked. He acknowledged that Carolina’s recent performance reflects the influence of their current coach, implying that their upcoming game could be a tough battle.