The Bucs have recently had a lot of issues both on and off the field. Now, a huge issue concerning their QB could have potentially emerged.
During the Bucs’ 2-6 stretch in their last eight games that has seen them fall out of first place in the NFC South, Baker Mayfield has not played like the franchise quarterback the Bucs have expected him to be. While the offense has dealt with countless injuries all year long, Mayfield simply hasn’t lived up to the standard.
When you consider Mayfield’s career as a Buc as well, it’s had its ups and downs. He had a rocky start in his first season, but winded up finishing 9-8. Then last year, he put together a stellar season, leading the Bucs to 10 wins for their first tine since 2021. This year, he got off to an MVP-caliber start, leading the Bucs to a 5-1 record through six week.
However, since Week 7, his play has dipped significantly. During the team’s 2-5 stretch, his completion percentage has dipped from 66.2 percent to just 57.7. He has scored just nine touchdowns in that seven game stretch, and has turned the ball over seven times, with a brutal 1:2 TD/INT ratio.
Mayfield’s Midseason Regression Raises Long-Term Questions
Compare that to Mayfield’s first six games, where he threw for 12 touchdowns with only one interception.
The reality of the situation is that head coach Todd Bowles is also on the hot seat as well, lending this whole mess an uneasy air should a new coach be hired. The question is whether or not a new head coach would reset the whole thing or actually re-evaluate Mayfield’s play. After all, this squad had the promise of one that could contend for a Super Bowl and yet have completely capitulated. Chances are not only coaches but fans would want this team to have a new look.
Playoff Pressure Mounts as Bowles and Mayfield Face Uncertain Futures
Ultimately, this could come down to how Mayfield performs down the stretch, especially in key divisional matchups against the Panthers. Should they beat the Panthers twice over the next three weeks, they make the playoffs, and most of the season’s mishaps will be forgiven. NFL.com has still given the Bucs a 54% chance of reaching the playoff even after a devastating loss to the Falcons.
It’s important to not that both deliver clear cut messages about their recent performances after the loss. Mayfield wanted to wipe the slate clean while Bowles was a little bit more vitriolic. Still, both respected the other’s opinions and wished to focus on the next game.
The Bucs control their own destiny with one clear message: beat the Panthers twice, and the division is ours yet again. What will come will come. Still, with Mayfield’s uneven play, chances are should Tampa underwhelm to end the season, even with a potential playoff berth, conversations will only get more and more tense as more rumors spread. Both Mayfield and Bowles had better hope they are there to stick around.
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