Baker Mayfield returned from a three-game absence due to a dislocated right thumb and attempted only 11 passes in the Buccaneers' 43-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Instead, Tampa Bay relied on a trio of running backs — Bucky Irving, Kenny Gainwell and Sean Tucker — who combined for 258 rushing yards and three touchdowns, with Irving accounting for two scores. The ground game kept the Panthers' defense honest and limited Mayfield's exposure.
"It was great. He made the plays when we needed him to," Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said of Mayfield. Wearing a specially made baseball glove to protect his thumb, Mayfield completed a 14-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Tez Johnson, marking his 200th career passing touchdown.
The defense also contributed significantly, sacking Panthers quarterback Bryce Young five times and intercepting two of his passes. Defensive tackle Calijah Kancey added a scoop-and-score, while special teams standout Ko Kieft recovered a muffed punt. The Bucs improved to 2-5 with the win.
"This is what it's supposed to look like," Mayfield said. "Operation-wise and when it comes to complementary football, this is what the potential this team can have." The offensive line paved the way for 171 rushing yards before contact, the most in a single game this season, according to ESPN tracking data.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing