The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering Week 7 on a hot streak, sitting atop the NFC with a 5–1 record, and quarterback Baker Mayfield has been at the heart of their success. With 1,539 passing yards and 12 touchdowns to his name, Mayfield has helped turn Tampa Bay into a legitimate contender early in the season. But as they prepare to face the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football, the veteran signal-caller is keeping his team focused on consistency rather than comfort.
Speaking to reporters after Thursday’s practice on October 16, Mayfield emphasized accountability and execution.
“Every week matters. You don’t have to do anything extra—just handle your role and do it at a high level,” he said. “Beating elite teams only adds to our confidence.”
That confidence was on full display in Week 6 when the Buccaneers took down the San Francisco 49ers 30–19. Despite being without key offensive starters Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Bucky Irving, Mayfield stayed sharp, completing 17 of 23 passes for 256 yards and two touchdowns. Rookie wideout Emeka Egbuka also exited early with a hamstring issue, but Mayfield’s poise and precision ensured the offense didn’t lose rhythm.
Tampa Bay’s defense matched his energy, dominating the trenches with six sacks on Mac Jones for a loss of 51 yards, along with two interceptions and zero touchdowns allowed. It was a balanced team victory—one that showcased the Bucs’ depth and resilience. Still, the upcoming trip to Ford Field presents a different kind of challenge, as Detroit boasts one of the most efficient offensive units in the league.
Bucs Rally Behind Their Leader
Mayfield’s leadership has quickly earned the respect of his locker room, especially from the team’s younger players. Rookie receiver Tez Johnson praised the quarterback on ESPN’s SportsCenter on October 15, saying,
“He’s relentless. He’s my MVP—no question. The way he practices, motivates, and pushes everyone—it’s special.”
That kind of belief could be crucial as Tampa Bay prepares for another measuring-stick matchup.
Mayfield Acknowledges the Lions’ Tough Defense
While Detroit’s recent controversial loss to the Kansas City Chiefs slowed their momentum, Mayfield isn’t underestimating Dan Campbell’s squad—especially on the defensive side, even with Brian Branch suspended for this game.
“They’ve been really sharp in the turnover battle,” Mayfield noted. “Kirby Joseph’s a true ball hawk, and their linebackers make life tough for any offense.”
The numbers back him up. The Lions’ defense has forced six interceptions through six games while only being picked off twice themselves. They’ve also racked up 19 sacks for 126 yards, compared to the nine sacks allowed on their own quarterback, Jared Goff. By contrast, Mayfield has been taken down 10 times, a sign that Tampa Bay’s protection will need to hold firm to keep the offense rolling.
A Historic Rivalry with a New Chapter
Monday’s primetime matchup adds another layer to a long-standing rivalry. In 63 total meetings, the Buccaneers hold a narrow 30-win edge, and both teams enter the contest eager to prove their staying power. For Tampa Bay, it’s a chance to extend their dominance and solidify Mayfield’s MVP-level campaign. For Detroit, it’s about rebounding from controversy and regaining their NFC footing.
