The Buccaneers faced off against the Miami Dolphins in a close game but lost 20-17 due to their own mistakes. This Week 17 matchup at Hard Rock Stadium highlighted several missed opportunities for Tampa Bay.
After the Buccaneers chose to defer, Miami’s first drive ended with a punt. Tampa Bay quickly seized the momentum. They executed a 14-play, 68-yard drive, capped off by Chris Godwin Jr.’s touchdown. Godwin caught the ball on a slant route, putting the Bucs ahead 7-0 early in the game.
The Dolphins responded swiftly. Quarterback Quinn Ewers connected with Theo Wease Jr. for a stunning 63-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score. The Buccaneers struggled on their next possession, leading to another punt. Miami capitalized on this, moving down the field with effective plays from Greg Dulcich and Jaylen Wright, ultimately settling for a 29-yard field goal to lead 10-7.
Turnovers proved costly for Tampa Bay. Mayfield’s interception by Jason Marshall Jr. shifted the momentum back to the Dolphins. This led to Miami extending their lead with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Dulcich, making it 17-7. The Buccaneers attempted to fight back but missed a chance at a field goal due to a block.
The second half was a test for both teams. The Buccaneers managed a field goal following a fumble recovery but fell behind again when Miami’s Patterson kicked a 31-yard field goal to increase their lead to 20-10. A critical moment came when Mayfield’s pass was intercepted again, giving Miami possession deep in Buccaneers territory.
But Tampa Bay would not go down without a fight. They executed a quick three-play, 91-yard scoring drive, highlighted by a big catch from Godwin. Mayfield found Mike Evans in the end zone, closing the gap to 20-17.
Despite the loss, several Buccaneers stood out. Baker Mayfield completed 33 of 44 passes for 346 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Chris Godwin Jr. shone in the receiving game, catching seven passes for 108 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Yaya Diaby made six tackles and recorded a sack.
For Miami, Ewers had a solid game, completing 14 of 22 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns, while De’Von Achane rushed for 83 yards on 18 carries. On defense, Ashtyn Davis delivered with seven tackles and an interception.
This game serves as a reminder of how crucial it is to limit mistakes in high-stakes situations. The Buccaneers must address these issues if they hope to turn things around in the upcoming weeks.
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