Week 7 proved to be a tough outing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Facing the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, the Bucs endured a frustrating 24–9 defeat in a game defined by both defensive dominance and controversial officiating. Despite some questionable calls, quarterback Baker Mayfield didn’t shy away from admitting that the offense simply didn’t perform to expectations.
“We’ve got to find a better balance,” Mayfield told reporters after Wednesday’s practice. “Guys are going to get tired — receivers, the O-line, everyone. Against a defensive front like that, you never want to be in a position where you’re dropping back 50 times. That’s not fair to anyone.”
Mayfield gave full credit to the Lions’ defense, acknowledging their relentless pressure and strong execution. He also praised Detroit linebacker Derrick Barnes for his standout performance and took accountability for his own struggles.
“I just have to be sharper,” Mayfield said. “It was one of those days where I wasn’t perfect, and in games like that, you’ve got to be a lot closer to perfect than I was.”
The Lions’ defense, led by head coach Dan Campbell, delivered one of its most complete performances of the season. Detroit limited Tampa Bay to only 251 total yards, broke up 12 passes, and recorded an astounding 40 quarterback pressures. Edge rushers Aidan Hutchinson (12 pressures) and Al-Quadin Muhammad (9 pressures) were particularly disruptive throughout the night.
Controversy wasn’t far behind, however. Several officiating decisions left the Buccaneers visibly frustrated, and tensions boiled over when Mayfield exchanged words with a referee late in the fourth quarter.
On a critical fourth-down play, tight end Cade Otton caught a pass but fumbled after contact. Teammate Ben Bredeson recovered the ball, and the play was initially ruled in Tampa Bay’s favor. Detroit challenged the call, leading to an extended review. After a second look from referee John Hussey, the ruling was reversed — much to Mayfield’s dismay.
Speaking after the game, Mayfield voiced his frustration with what he perceived as inconsistent officiating. He pointed out a missed defensive holding call on a third-down play and expressed confusion about the multiple reviews.
“There were quite a few things in that game that didn’t sit right,” Mayfield said. “I put everything I’ve got into this game. So when I see calls that don’t seem fair, I’m going to say something.”
Despite the loss, the Buccaneers remain atop the NFC South with a 5–2 record. They’ll aim to bounce back in Week 8 against the struggling New Orleans Saints, who currently sit at 1–6. With both teams coming off defeats, the upcoming matchup could be a pivotal moment in the division race.
