The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had gotten off to the best possible start. However, largely due to injuries sustained in recent weeks, the competition has tightened significantly with their rivals. Baker Mayfield made his presence felt at Raymond James Stadium, leading the team to a hard-fought victory over the Arizona Cardinals.



The return of key offensive players like Bucky Irving and Chris Godwin, along with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Mayfield</a> himself—who had to leave the last game due to an injury to his non-throwing shoulder—could mark the beginning of the team rediscovering the form they showed months ago.



“Today felt like we were very, very close,” Mayfield said, via <a href="https://www.buccaneers.com/news/baker-mayfield-bucs-are-very-very-close-on-offense">the team’s website.</a> “Guys took the message and a lot of things at heart during the week of practice, so we just have to be able to continue to translate it to the game field. But, that’s the mentality we’re looking for – guys understand that if you handle it and you prepare like that, good things will happen and go from there.”



Perhaps the game against the Cardinals didn’t showcase the best version of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Bucs</a>, who are still searching to rediscover the formula that brought them so much success. However, it could serve as a source of optimism heading into the most crucial stretch of the regular season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251201_BUS_537412_baker-mayfield-bucky-irving_c6e9832e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield with Bucky Irving" class="wp-image-537447"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 and Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The Bucs’ offense aims to rise again</h2>



The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense, spearheaded by quarterback Baker Mayfield and complemented by dynamic playmakers like running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin, is focused on reaching its best form at the critical juncture of the season. 


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In their recent appearances, this duo provided necessary offensive production. Running back Bucky Irving compiled 88 carries for 298 yards and scored 1 touchdown, averaging 3.4 yards per carry. 



Meanwhile, wide receiver Chris Godwin was highly active in the passing game, recording 11 receptions for 139 yards, averaging 12.6 yards per catch, though he was kept out of the end zone.



<h2>Injuries now in the rearview</h2>



Crucially, both Bucky Irving and Chris Godwin have put their recent injury setbacks completely behind them. Irving has fully recovered from his shoulder and foot ailments, while <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-godwin">Godwin</a> has completely healed from his fibular injury.



Having successfully moved past these physical issues, both offensive stars are now focused on dedicating 100% of their capabilities to the field, aiming to operate at peak performance for the Buccaneers’ playoff push.



<h2>What’s next for the Bucs?</h2>



The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering a crucial stretch of their schedule with three consecutive NFC South divisional matchups that will define their playoff fate. 



They will first host two key games at home against the New Orleans Saints and the Atlanta Falcons. Following these pivotal home contests, they will hit the road to face the Carolina Panthers. 



With the division race extremely tight, winning these three games—especially the two against direct rivals—is absolutely essential for the Buccaneers to secure the NFC South title and a guaranteed playoff spot.



<h4>NFC South current standings:</h4>



<ul><li>Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5)</li><li>Carolina Panthers (7-6)</li><li>Atlanta Falcons (4-8)</li><li>New Orleans Saints (2-10)</li></ul>

Bucs have plenty of reasons for optimism ahead of upcoming NFL games

Bucs have plenty of reasons for optimism ahead of upcoming NFL games - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> face a tough matchup against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 13 of the NFL season. More important than that, this game could finally be when running back Bucky Irving comes back from injury.



Irving hasn’t played since Week 4 and according to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Irving is active for the game against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona</a> despite his questionable tag with ankle and shoulder injuries.



Still, Schefter reported that the Buccaneers won’t overdo Irving. He will have snaps but will be limited, so Rachaad White and Sean Tucker might be having their fare share of snaps as well.



<h2>Rachaad White has been really underwhelming this season</h2>



It’s a good thing that Irving will be back because this hasn’t been a good year for Rachaad White. His best game has been a 65-rushing yards performance and he hasn’t gone over 51 in his last five games. He has only four yards per attempt. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251130_BUS_536593_rachaad-white_044660b4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers" class="wp-image-536601"></figure><figcaption>Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers</figcaption></figure>



In fact, in the last few games, it’s been RB3 Sean Tucker, the one playing most snaps and being the most productive. He is averaging 4.4 yards per carry and has five touchdowns as well. He has clearly outperformed White. Now, with Bucky Irving back, had three 99+ scrimmage yards in three of his four games played this year. He is clearly a great weapon to have back.


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<h2>The Bucs’ offense has taken a huge dip without Irving</h2>



Tampa Bay has, on paper, one of the best offenses in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> but injuries have really darkened its season. Not only Irving, but also many wideouts have been sidelined. That’s why the Buccaneers have the 20th ranked offense. 



They also are 14th in scoring offense. It’s not a nice season and to make it worse, quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a> is also playing with a bad shoulder injury. If Irving comes back swinging, this offense will be fully revamped.

Is Bucky Irving playing today for Buccaneers vs Cardinals in NFL Week 13?

Is Bucky Irving playing today for Buccaneers vs Cardinals in NFL Week 13? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season is entering a crucial stage, and one of the divisions still far from being decided is the NFC South. Baker Mayfield’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers will host the always tough Arizona Cardinals, aiming to secure another win to stay atop their division.



According to the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-week-13-injury-report-player-statuses-for-all-14-games">official NFL site</a>, the quarterback’s status ahead of this game was listed as questionable. However, journalist Adam Schefter reported on X (formerly Twitter) that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Mayfield</a> will be on the field alongside his teammates at Raymond James Stadium.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-bowles">Todd Bowles</a>’ team will look to secure its seventh win of the season, which would help keep it atop the division, ahead of both the Panthers and the Falcons, their closest rivals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251130_BUS_536566_baker-mayfield-1-1_580546f8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield Buccaneers QB" class="wp-image-534345"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What injury is plaguing Mayfield?</h2>



Baker Mayfield is once again demonstrating his gritty resolve as he navigates a low-grade AC joint sprain in his non-throwing (left) shoulder, an injury sustained during the loss to the Rams. While the sight of him in a sling post-game was alarming, subsequent MRI results showed no structural damage, leading to positive news for the Bucs. 


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Mayfield has progressed rapidly in practice and, despite being listed as questionable, he will start this week against the Cardinals. The team’s playoff hopes hinge on their signal-caller’s ability to manage the pain and perform, which may involve him wearing protective padding.



<h2>Bucs aim to stay on top</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> are entering the most crucial stretch of their season with the luxury of a three-game home stand at Raymond James Stadium. After starting the run against the Cardinals, the Bucs immediately face two consecutive divisional rivals: the Saints and the Falcons.



With the NFC South race intensely competitive, the outcome of this homestand will be paramount. Winning these games is non-negotiable for Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers to create distance from their challengers and decisively secure their position atop the division hierarchy.

Is Baker Mayfield playing for Buccaneers vs Cardinals today in Week 13 of 2025 NFL season?

Is Baker Mayfield playing for Buccaneers vs Cardinals today in Week 13 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

The NFC South is still far from settled in terms of playoff spots, meaning every loss could represent a significant setback as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> regular season winds down. Todd Bowles’ Tampa Bay Buccaneers will host the Arizona Cardinals, hoping to have Baker Mayfield available to lead the offense.



During the Bucs’ last outing, which ended in a loss to the Rams, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Mayfield</a> was unable to finish the game due to a left shoulder injury. On Monday, after medical evaluations, it was confirmed that the QB sprained his AC joint with no structural damage and would be able to return to play sooner rather than later.



When asked by the media about the pain, the former Browns standout said it is “decreasing for sure… It’s pain tolerance, management, at that point. See how it goes through the week and go from there.”



Additionally, he clarified that he doesn’t want to rush his recovery to avoid worsening the injury. “Understanding that we have Teddy, and I’ve been in this spot before, in the non-throwing shoulder, and if it’s going to hinder how I play, probably won’t go. But won’t know that until later in the week, getting practice reps, and seeing how that goes.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251126_BUS_534320_baker-mayfield-1-1_af6585bf.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield Buccaneers QB" class="wp-image-534345"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>A veteran back in the Bucs’ lineup</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> are preparing to lean on the veteran experience of Teddy Bridgewater should Baker Mayfield be sidelined for the game against the Arizona Cardinals due to his shoulder sprain. 


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While Mayfield’s status is being monitored daily, Bridgewater has been taking the majority of first-team practice reps to ensure readiness. The Bucs are banking on Bridgewater’s proven composure and ability to manage a game, as demonstrated throughout his career as a spot-starter, to keep the offense stable and help Tampa Bay snap its recent losing streak and remain competitive in the NFC South race.



<h2>Tampa Bay aims for the playoffs</h2>



The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a critical three-game stretch crucial to their playoff aspirations. With an opportunity to capitalize on a favorable home schedule, the Bucs host the Arizona Cardinals and a pivotal NFC South showdown against the Atlanta Falcons. 



They then travel for a divisional clash with the Carolina Panthers. Tampa Bay must secure wins in these upcoming contests, particularly against division rivals, to significantly boost its current standing and maintain their pursuit of a postseason spot.

Baker Mayfield sends Todd Bowles a clear message about starting for Bucs vs Cardinals

Baker Mayfield sends Todd Bowles a clear message about starting for Bucs vs Cardinals - Bolavip US

Every year, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> is framed by championship aspirations and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> dreams. But beneath the glittering surface of triumph lies a deeper, often more complex history built not on trophies, but on sheer resilience.



The journey of a professional football team is a marathon measured in wins and losses, and for some franchises, those losses trace a long story of resilience shaped by decades of hardship.



Seasons also trace moments that reshaped front offices, redirected draft strategies and redefined expectations. In the shadow of defeat, teams rebuilt identities, leaving behind the years that pushed them to rock bottom.



<h2>1960 Dallas Cowboys: The birth of a legend (0-11-1)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_533083_1960-Dallas-Cowboys-1_f9b90df0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533088"></figure><figcaption>1960 Dallas Cowboys (Source: Otto Greule Jr./Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The year 1960 marked a foundational milestone and a brutal welcome for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a>. This wasn’t merely the debut of one of the sport’s most valuable and recognized franchises, but also the baptism by fire that would forge their character.



Under the guidance of the legendary Tom Landry, the team entered the fray with a roster that was, frankly, more a collection of young prospects and cast-offs than a cohesive unit.



The final balance sheet was a stark 0 wins, 11 losses, and 1 tie, earning them the distinction of being, in the eyes of many historians, the first modern team to complete a season without a single victory.



The only moment of respite came in a 31-31 tie against the Steelers in Week 12. The historical footnote is vital: although the record is infamous, the nucleus of this struggling season laid the groundwork for future greatness, proving that even the worst defeats can be the prelude to an empire. The true “birth of America’s Team” was a difficult labor.



<h2>1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The wit of John McKay (0-14)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_533083_1976-Tampa-Bay-Buccaneers-1_98ebf34b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533089"></figure><figcaption>1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Source: Tampa Bay Buccaneers)</figcaption></figure>



If American football were a stage play, the inaugural season of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> would be a tragic comedy of errors. In 1976, the NFL expansion brought these “Bucs” to the league, led by the charismatic and often sarcastic head coach John McKay.



McKay became famous for his handling of the media amidst the disaster. When questioned about the team’s poor execution, he supposedly delivered the iconic line: “We have our moments. We see about 40 minutes of terrible football and 20 minutes of mistakes“.



The final record was a humiliating 0-14, but the magnitude of the failure goes beyond the win column: the Bucs lost their first 26 games in total (including 1977), establishing a losing streak record that is virtually unbreakable in the modern era.



This season is a case study on the immense difficulty of building a franchise from scratch, becoming the gold standard for winless campaigns in the 14-game schedule era.



<h2>1982 Baltimore Colts: The strike that couldn’t help (0-8-1)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_533083_1982-Baltimore-Colts-1_7fc7fecd.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533090"></figure><figcaption>1982 Baltimore Colts (Source: Colts.com)</figcaption></figure>



In an atypical year marked by labor friction, the Baltimore Colts managed the dubious feat of being the only team in this exclusive club to achieve this low point during the strike era.



The 1982 season was interrupted by a player walkout that reduced the calendar to just nine games. One would hope a shorter campaign offered an escape route, a chance to “stumble” into a victory. It was not to be.



The Colts, a team already struggling with identity and performance issues, simply could not crack the winning formula. Their final ledger of 0-8-1 felt particularly bitter, as they ended the campaign with a tie against the divisional rival Chargers in the final game.



The team not only failed to secure a win, but its offensive performance was anemic and the defense rarely contained opponents. This sad balance was, for many, a foreshadowing of what was to come: the eventual and painful relocation of the team to Indianápolis two years later.



<h2>2008 Detroit Lions: The modern era’s disgrace (0-16)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_533083_2008-Detroit-Lions-1_965c1a9e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533093"></figure><figcaption>2008 Detroit Lions (Source: Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



2008 was the year of implosion for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-lions">Detroit Lions</a>. In the era of the 16-game regular schedule, this team became synonymous with total failure, setting a mark few believed possible: the infamous 0-16. What makes this season particularly memorable is not just the lack of wins, but the talent that, incredibly, failed to generate a single triumph.



Figures like wide receiver Calvin Johnson, though still young, were part of a locker room that seemed incapable of closing out games. The season was plagued by close losses that slipped away in the fourth quarter, indicating that the problem wasn’t always a lack of effort, but a profound lack of leadership and a winning mentality in crucial moments.



The final nail in the coffin was a loss in the last game against the Packers, sealing their destiny and carving the name of the 2008 Lions into the history books as the first NFL team to lose every game in a full 16-game schedule.



<h2>2017 Cleveland Browns: An 18-month calamity (0-16)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251124_BUS_533083_Kenny-Britt-Browns-1_5f0fba51.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-533094"></figure><figcaption>Kenny Britt #18 of the Cleveland Browns in 2017. (Source: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns">Cleveland Browns</a> of 2017 not only repeated the 0-16 mark set by the Lions, but they did so in the context of a losing streak that spanned across seasons, reaching 17 consecutive losses (including the end of the 2016 season).



Led by Hue Jackson, the franchise seemed to have found the absolute nadir of its already turbulent existence. This season was not just a series of defeats, but a testament to the organization’s instability, with constant changes in management and the quarterback position.



The worst offense, perhaps, was the loss in Week 17, a “winnable” encounter against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who were playing many backups to rest their stars for the playoffs. Cleveland had the chance to avoid the zero, but succumbed once again, securing their place alongside Detroit.



The 0-16 felt less like an accident and more like the inevitable culmination of years of mismanagement. It remains a deep stain on the history of one of the league’s oldest franchises.

The NFL’s zero-win seasons: Franchises that hit rock bottom

NFL teams who never slipped in the regular season: Unbeaten through the wire

NFL teams with limited playoff appearances: Long droughts and short histories

The NFL’s zero-win seasons: Franchises that hit rock bottom - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-godwin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Godwin</a> is one of those players the Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ fan base eagerly anticipates seeing dominate the field in the upcoming NFL regular season games. With a matchup against the formidable Los Angeles Rams on the horizon and a golden opportunity to bounce back from a string of disappointing results, the anticipation surrounding Godwin’s participation is at an all-time high.



Nevertheless, Chris Godwin’s appearance tonight for the Buccaneers against the Rams remains uncertain, as the most recent injury report from<a href="https://www.buccaneers.com/team/injury-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the Bucs’ official website</a> has listed him as questionable due to a fibula injury.



This development adds to the uncertainty about his status for the upcoming game, compounded by the fact that several other key players are also listed as questionable. With injuries mounting, the Bucs are facing a challenging moment as they prepare to take on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a>, a formidable adversary in the NFL.



The Rams enter this matchup aiming to secure their ninth win of the regular season, boasting an impressive 8-2 record. Under the leadership of Matthew Stafford, the Los Angeles fan base is keenly expecting another victory as their team head into Week 12.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Big game on a big stage. 🆚: Rams ⏰: 8:20 p.m. ET 📍: Los Angeles 📺: NBC/Peacock 📻: <a href="https://twitter.com/98rocktampabay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@98rocktampabay</a> <a href="https://t.co/vlG7vROJS0">pic.twitter.com/vlG7vROJS0</a>— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buccaneers/status/1992367488177205287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Bucs’ injury report</h2>



Tampa Bay’s matchup against the Rams isn’t solely clouded by Godwin’s uncertain status. Other players are also listed as questionable for today’s pivotal <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> regular-season clash.


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The other questionable players include:



<ul><li>Markees Watts OLB</li><li>Benjamin Morrison CB</li></ul>



Additionally, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> will be without Ben Bredeson, Jamel Dean, Bucky Irving, and Haason Redick, all of whom have been ruled out for the game against the Rams. This game could prove decisive for the team as it navigates the challenges ahead.

Is Chris Godwin playing tonight for Bucs vs Rams on SNF in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season?

Is Chris Godwin playing tonight for Bucs vs Rams on SNF in Week 12 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-bowles">Todd Bowles</a> is certainly aware of the swirling speculation surrounding Bucky Irving, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach was recently clear, stating there is a possibility the running back could return for the Week 13 home game.



“Bucs coach Todd Bowles said Bucky Irving will not play against the Rams but is ‘trending up’ to play vs Cardinals next week. Says he got hurt and ‘didn’t handle it well..’, but doing fine,” reported Rick Stroud on X, relaying the head coach’s comments.



Bowles didn’t acknowledged what was already known: that Irving had been dealing with mental challenges beyond the physical injury. Just one day prior, Stroud had also mentioned that the running back had been receiving mental health support during his recovery.



<h2>Irving recently spotted at Buccaneers practice</h2>



Stroud also reported seeing Irving practicing with his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a> teammates and took the opportunity to mention other players who will miss Sunday’s game: “Bucs RB Bucky Irving (red hoodie) warms up before practice. CB Jamel Dean, OLB Hasson Reddick were not working and will likely be out for Sunday night’s game.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Bucs RB Bucky Irving (red hoodie) warms up before practice. CB Jamel Dean, OLB Hasson Reddick were not working and will likely be out for Sunday night’s game. <a href="https://t.co/YmyVhT7Bid">pic.twitter.com/YmyVhT7Bid</a>— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLSTROUD/status/1991903593939472819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Although Irving will not be available for the Week 12 game against the Rams, Bowles affirmed that Chris Godwin is on track to play that game, which would be a huge boost for Mayfield, who needs all available weapons.


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<h2>Buccaneers look strong without Irving</h2>



Despite Irving’s absence in multiple games, the Buccaneers look strong with a 6-4 record and could easily reach the playoffs, especially since the NFC South scenario is not overly complicated. The Panthers (6-5) currently represent their only major threat.

Todd Bowles hints at when Bucky Irving could suit up for the Buccaneers again

Todd Bowles hints at when Bucky Irving could suit up for the Buccaneers again - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Baker Mayfield</a> has been playing without Bucky Irving since October, and according to information from Mike Florio, it is unlikely that the running back will return quickly to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leaving the team without a key offensive weapon.



“Florio says he doesn’t think Bucky Irving will be back ‘anytime soon’ and that it has to do with more than what can be seen on an injury report,” reported Zach Brunner on X, referencing a video where Florio discussed the running back’s injury from a few weeks ago.



However, a separate report from Rick Stroud suggests a different timeline: “Irving needed some mental health support from what I can gather following his injury and I’m told he’s ‘trending toward playing in the very near future.’ It won’t be Sunday, however. Not sure I agree with Florio’s claim he doesn’t expect Irving Jr. ‘anytime soon,’ speculation.”



<h2>When did Irving last play for the Buccaneers?</h2>



Irving last played for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a> in the game against the Eagles on October 25. Tampa Bay lost that game, and Irving failed to score a touchdown, contrasting sharply with his performance last season when he scored 8 touchdowns and amassed 1,122 rushing yards.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Florio says he doesn&apos;t think Bucky Irving will be back "anytime soon" and that it has to do with more than what can be seen on an injury report<a href="https://t.co/gT9AEu4908">pic.twitter.com/gT9AEu4908</a>— Zach Brunner (@FantasyFlurry) <a href="https://twitter.com/FantasyFlurry/status/1991678500550684705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



Mayfield has several options while Irving is injured, including Sean Tucker, Rachaad White, and Owen Wright, all of whom are on the depth chart to maintain a viable running game against opponents. Currently, White leads the backfield with 376 rushing yards.


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<h2>The Buccaneers’ next game</h2>



With two consecutive losses, the Buccaneers arrive in Week 12 hungry for a victory. Despite Irving’s absence, they have White running well as they face a tough road game against the Rams, a team having a good season but with known weaknesses on offense. The Buccaneers will not return home until Week 13 to play the Cardinals.

Baker Mayfield’s teammate Bucky Irving may take longer than expected to return to the Buccaneers

Baker Mayfield’s teammate Bucky Irving may take longer than expected to return to the Buccaneers - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a> holds grudges when he thinks he has been wronged. Now that he is coming back to play his former team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback is not grudgy, but revealed his sentiment towards the Los Angeles Rams.



A few weeks ago, when the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> beat the Jets, Mayfield took the podium after the game and sent jabs to the defensive coordinator. However, he has fond memories of his brief stint with the Rams, “There is no way for me to sugarcoat it — it was pivotal in my career and&nbsp;in my journey. I’ve told you guys that it helped me find the fun in football again — that joy.“



Mayfield also spoke as to how the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> helped him develop as a pro. “They helped me out and helped me discover what offense I really want to play in, and the responsibility that comes with [it] — a lot of accountability at the line of scrimmage and to check and get to the right plays. Yeah, it was instrumental in my career, something I am forever grateful for, and it will be fun to go back and see some familiar faces.” It will be a tough battle in the gridiron, but there’s respect out of it.



<h2>McVay helped Mayfield become a franchise QB</h2>



After his time with the Rams, Mayfield found a house in Tampa Bay. There, he was supposed to be a bridge quarterback, and he ended up being a franchise QB. For the last three years, he has evolved into a top-tier signal-caller.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1087" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251120_BUS_530741_sean-mcvay-rams_7c09d52a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1087" alt="Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams" class="wp-image-421823" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McVay</a> is known for being an offensive savant. Of course, that has plenty to do with how good the quarterbacks look under him. But it goes well beyond that. McVay’s schemes are so precise and crisp, that the quarterback learns how to work the offense as a whole, as Mayfield alluded to. McVay is one of the most brilliant minds in football.


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<h2>Mayfield and the Bucs need a win here</h2>



Tampa Bay’s injuries have diminished the team in big ways. The Bucs are still first in the NFC South with a 6-4 record, but Carolina is breathing on Tampa’s neck at 6-5. The Bucs need a win to be able to stay with a margin.



However, this is a tough game. The Rams are 8-2, but also, 4-1 at home. Arguably, the Rams are the most in-form team in the NFC with a five-game winning streak. It will be a tough test for the Bucs who are very injured to go and win against the Rams at So-Fi Stadium.

Bucs’ Baker Mayfield opens up about return to Los Angeles after stint with the Rams

Bucs' Baker Mayfield opens up about return to Los Angeles after stint with the Rams - Bolavip US

As <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shilo-sanders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shilo Sanders</a> remains a free agent, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — who released him earlier this year — have signed a new safety to bolster their defense. A big hit to the player’s hopes of making a comeback to the league.



It appears Shilo Sanders’ chances of returning to the NFL may be slipping away. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> had an opportunity to bring him back, but instead opted for another player.



On Tuesday, Tampa Bay signed Marcus Banks to its practice squad, per Jordan Schultz. Banks had been with the team earlier this year but was released due to a quad injury.



<h2>Will Shilo Sanders return to the NFL?</h2>



When Shilo Sanders was released by the Buccaneers, many expected he would quickly find another opportunity in the league. However, as time passes, the safety remains unsigned.



According to reports, Shilo’s attitude has been a key factor in why teams have stayed away. He was a solid player at Colorado, but concerns about his mindset — similar to the questions surrounding his brother Shedeur — have reportedly raised red flags.



After his release, Shilo expressed that he wanted to return to the NFL, but also mentioned he would consider pursuing careers in acting, modeling, or singing if football didn’t work out. That openness has led some to believe that the sport may not be his top priority.


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Buccaneers continue overlooking Shilo Sanders with new safety signing

Commanders also overlook Shilo Sanders by signing former Jaguars safety

Shilo Sanders makes blunt financial admission after Bucs cut and NFL fine with Shedeur comparison

Buccaneers continue overlooking Shilo Sanders with new safety signing - Bolavip US

Perhaps one of the most entertaining and unpredictable matchups of Week 11 unfolded in Orchard Park, where the Buffalo Bills managed to navigate the tough challenge posed by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a>. In a game that featured constant lead changes, Josh Allen and his squad ultimately came out on top.



The league’s reigning MVP, despite turning the ball over on a few occasions, ultimately proved to be the driving force behind his team’s latest victory — a 44–32 win in a Highmark Stadium packed with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/buffalo-bills">Bills</a> fans.



Todd Bowles knows that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/josh-allen">Allen</a> was one of the main reasons his Bucs couldn’t secure a win that would have put more distance between them and their NFC South rivals.



“When we went after him, he made some plays in the second half,” the HC said via the <a href="https://www.buccaneers.com/news/bills-bucs-week-11-recap-postgame-report-2025">team’s official website</a>. “When we covered, he stayed in the pocket longer and beat us with his feet. He’s a great player and he did a heck of a job. Hats off to him.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/17095326/josh-allen-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="Josh Allen Buffalo Bills" class="wp-image-528666"></figure><figcaption> Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Bowles’ candid self-critique</h2>



The Buccaneers managed to hold the lead at various points during the game, but in the end, their defense could do little to stop Josh Allen’s onslaught. In a postgame reflection, Todd Bowles admitted that if “you score 32 points, you’re supposed to win the game.”


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He also stated: “Sometimes it’s coverage, sometimes it’s pass rush. But at the same time, it’s got to get fixed. We’re playing hard, but then we have lapses here and missed tackles there, and we give up big plays. That’s what happened in the second half and two times in the first half. When we’re covering, we can’t get to the quarterback; when we get to the quarterback, we’re covering wrong on the play. We’ll get that fixed going forward.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/17100839/todd-bowls-1920x1080.webp" alt="Todd Bowles Tampa Bay Buccaneers HC" class="wp-image-528686"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Quick thinking for what’s ahead</h2>



Following a tough loss to the Bills, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers must quickly regain their footing with a pivotal three-game slate. Their immediate test is a difficult trip to Los Angeles to face the Rams, followed by two crucial home stands at Raymond James Stadium: a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, and a critical NFC South divisional showdown against the New Orleans Saints. Winning at home will be key as the Bucs look to make up ground in the playoff race.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="691b3b722d286e1484d5eadc" data-title="Can the Bucs clinch the division and secure a direct playoff spot?" data-options="2"></div>

Bucs know who’s to blame for their loss to the Bills

Bucs know who’s to blame for their loss to the Bills - Bolavip US

For many football fans, there has never been a greater player than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tom-brady" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a>. However, Terry Bradshaw refuses to share that opinion — and believes there’s someone else who deserves the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>’s GOAT title.



Tom Brady completely changed the NFL. Over 23 seasons, he won seven Super Bowl rings — six with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> and one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers — cementing his place in history.



Nevertheless, NFL legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/terry-bradshaw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Terry Bradshaw</a> doesn’t think that’s enough to crown Brady as the greatest of all time. Now, the Pittsburgh Steelers icon has revealed his own pick — and it might surprise many fans.



<h2>Terry Bradshaw says Super Bowl rings don’t make Tom Brady the GOAT</h2>



The NFL has seen plenty of legendary quarterbacks, and fate has brought two of them together at Fox: Terry Bradshaw and Tom Brady, both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> champions and two of the best signal-callers the league has ever seen.



While the two get along well, Bradshaw doesn’t believe in blindly praising his peers — and he just made that clear.



During an appearance on the Nothing Left Unsaid podcast, Bradshaw was asked who he believes is the greatest quarterback of all time. The Steelers legend questioned why so many fans automatically call Tom Brady the undisputed GOAT.


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“People always say, ‘Tom Brady is the greatest quarterback to ever play.’ Okay — is he really?” Terry Bradshaw said. “Otto Graham might be the greatest quarterback to ever play. How many titles did Otto win? Ten? Look it up. And Tom lost three.”



<h2>Fact check: Otto Graham’s forgotten greatness</h2>



Otto Graham won seven titles with the Cleveland Browns, though several came before the NFL’s modern era. His first four were in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), which had just eight teams. He later won three more in the NFL, which then had only 12 to 13 franchises.



Tom Brady, meanwhile, claimed his seven championships in the Super Bowl era — competing against 31 and later 32 teams. Both quarterbacks share the same number of titles, but they achieved them under entirely different circumstances.

Terry Bradshaw refuses to call Tom Brady the GOAT, makes surprising pick instead

NFL News: Tom Brady takes a historic shot at 49ers with shocking message

When the ball never came down: The longest touchdown passes in NFL history

Terry Bradshaw refuses to call Tom Brady the GOAT, makes surprising pick instead - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a> didn’t care that they were the away team or that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were coming off a bye week. They went and won and that caused quarterback Baker Mayfield to be very critical of his team.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayfield</a> accused the Bucs to be complacent and that is something they need to change. “We are a good team, but to be great, when you score on the opening drive, you know what it looks like, you set the tone, you’re not satisfied with it… Right now, I think we are lacking that on offense and it comes down to me — that is my job to get that fixed and I will do that.” When asked what is it exactly what the team’s missing, he simply said, “killer instinct.”



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bucs</a> are due to recover some key names on the offense but Mayfield is right. After scoring quickly on a six-play drive, the team couldn’t replicate that explosiveness and they saw how the Patriots quickly turned the game around.



<h2>Injuries are really taking its toll</h2>



Star players always play with a chip on their shoulders, but the Bucs are playing with third-string weapons in some areas right now. Also, star players are stars for a reason, they are difference makers. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251110_BUS_523882_Tampa-Bay-Buccaneers-running-back-Bucky-Irving-1024x576_4c87a996.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bucky Irving of the Buccaneers" class="wp-image-298345" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Bucky Irving of the Buccaneers</figcaption></figure>



Running back Bucky Irving is the key piece the Bucs are missing the most. Backup Rachaad White was good a coulpe of years ago and still is a solid RB2 on a team. However, as RB1, his 3.7 yards per attempt is just not good enough. Irving, for instance, is a career 4.9 yards per attempt back. Without being able to establish the run game, the offense turns much more predictable.


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<h2>What’s next for the Bucs?</h2>



Tampa Bay’s next two games are tough. First, the Bucs must visit <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/josh-allen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Josh Allen</a> and the Buffalo Bills. Then, they visit the Los Angeles Rams, who are arguably the best team in the NFC right now.



Both of those offenses have plenty of firepower and both teams have elite quarterbacks. Therefore, if the Bucs don’t play with killer instinct, it will be a deja-vu experience for the team.

Baker Mayfield reveals what is wrong with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after loss to the New England Patriots

Baker Mayfield reveals what is wrong with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after loss to the New England Patriots - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-maye">Drake Maye</a> may not have had a perfect game on the road against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his performance was once again enough to propel the New England Patriots to an 8-2 record this season. However, when asked about the MVP chants he heard, he insisted they were not for him.



Maye refused to put himself on a pedestal and accept the crowd’s recognition, claiming the chants were intended for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a>‘ Baker Mayfield. “They may be for Baker. Baker played his b— off. Big fan of Baker’s game, and they’re a good football team,” said the Patriots quarterback, who has racked up 2,555 yards this season.



Beyond his humble denial of MVP consideration, Maye’s statistics have been genuinely impressive, closely mirroring Mac Jones’ rookie season with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>. At his current pace, Maye could surpass Jones’s 2021 marks of 3,801 yards and 22 touchdowns.



<h2>Maye unconcerned with Bills matchup</h2>



Tracy Wolfson asked Maye if he was concerned at all about the Patriots’ upcoming Week 15 game against the Bills. The young quarterback quickly dismissed the thought, saying, “We’re not worried about Buffalo, we’re worried about Thursday night [vs Jets].”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Are you kiddingggg me Drake Maye. What a god damn throw with a body right in his face. The touch and ball placement from a slightly awkward opened up arm slot. All against tight coverage too. <a href="https://t.co/0IkL4FCPct">pic.twitter.com/0IkL4FCPct</a>— Carter Donnick (@CDonnick1) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDonnick1/status/1987591679684297192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



It is worth noting that the Patriots will enter their Week 11 TNF game riding a seemingly unbreakable seven-week winning streak. Moreover, Maye’s comment about the Bills might ring true, as New England already defeated Buffalo on the road back in Week 5.


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The game against the Buccaneers was a landmark performance for Maye. “Players in NFL HISTORY to have 2500+ passing yards, 70.0+ completion %, 250+ rushing yards &amp; 5 or fewer interceptions through 10 games of a season: Drake Maye (2025),” wrote Greg Harvey on X.

Drake Maye gives classy response after hearing MVP chants during Patriots-Bucs game

Drake Maye gives classy response after hearing MVP chants during Patriots-Bucs game - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Baker Mayfield</a> didn’t hold back after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 28-23 loss to the New England Patriots. The quarterback’s tone was firm as he reflected on the team’s missed chances and lack of urgency. “I’m hoping our guys do get pissed off about this,” Mayfield said. “This isn’t the end of our season. I know that. We have a very important game ahead of us.”



For Mayfield, the defeat was more than just another mark in the loss column, it was a wake-up call. “Games like this, when you don’t win them, it should sting. It should really, really hurt,” he emphasized. His message was clear: the team’s response to adversity would define their season moving forward.



The veteran quarterback also called out the importance of pride and accountability. “You have to have some pride,” Mayfield said. “The fear of messing up for your teammates… you have to have that responsibility and accountability for the guys around you and get it fixed.”



<h2>Coach Todd Bowles takes responsibility</h2>



Todd Bowles also did not hold back when discussing the loss to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">Patriots</a>. “There were four [big plays] in obvious situations that we didn’t make, obviously didn’t play it well enough,” he stated clearly. However, the coach did not lay all the blame on the players, also pointing fingers at the coaching staff: “Definitely didn’t coach it well enough, and I definitely didn’t coach it well enough, and that starts with me.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield: “I’m hoping our guys do get pissed off about this. This isn’t the end of our season. I know that. We have a very important game ahead of us. Games like this, when you don’t win them — it should sting. It should really, really hurt.” <a href="https://t.co/6JUTWyT40L">pic.twitter.com/6JUTWyT40L</a>— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/JennaLaineESPN/status/1987647232045187468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



Bowles warned during the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a> press conference that such breakdowns are unacceptable. “Those things can’t happen if you’re playing against a good team like that or any team in this league.” He delivered a clear message to both the roster and the staff: “Inexcusable on our part. Bad on the coaching, bad on the players.”


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<h2>Critical stretch ahead for Buccaneers</h2>



Mayfield and all his teammates know the loss to the Patriots was painful, but at a 6-3 record, their overall standing is not dire. The real challenge lies in the next two games on their schedule: both are on the road against the Bills and the Rams. The Bills recently suffered a loss, while the Rams are currently riding high with a 7-2 record this season.

Baker Mayfield warns Buccaneers teammates after tough loss vs Patriots

Baker Mayfield warns Buccaneers teammates after tough loss vs Patriots - Bolavip US

Mayfield warns Buccaneers teammates after tough loss vs Patriots

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