Baker Mayfield Reflects Sadly On Failed Bucs Season

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' season ended in the Wild Card round to the Washington Commanders 23-20 at Raymond James Stadium.

After such a positive second half of the season that saw the Buccaneers recover from a 4-6 record to finish the year 10-7, there was a feeling that Todd Bowles' team was in the type of form that could see a deep playoff run happen.

But that didn't eventuate, with the Buccaneers falling at the first hurdle thanks to two costly mistakes that ultimately led to Zane Gonzalez's last-second field goal to break Tampa Bay's hearts.

While this time is difficult for players and coaches, quarterback Baker Mayfield did his best to offer his thoughts on the season overall after the loss to Washington.

“It's disappointing overall because I believe in this team. I believe we had the talent, the coaching staff, and everybody around us to be able to go far,” Mayfield said rather sadly. “But trying to take a step back, big picture, this group fought. There was a lot of people that stepped up throughout the year, a ton of guys that stepped up into huge roles and so there's a lot to be proud of. In this moment, that's hard to see. But that's something to be proud of and it just goes back to being disappointing and not making the plays when you need it the most.”

Playoff games are often decided by moments and the Buccaneers had two they will want back. Mayfield's fumble in an exchange with rookie Jalen McMillan, one that Washington recovered and scored a touchdown from.

Then, on a third-and-inches, a miscommunication between center Graham Barton and Mayfield led to lost yards, and the Buccaneers had to settle for a field goal.

Mistakes are magnified in the playoffs, and the Buccaneers made two that cost them dearly, and now they'll have to live with having a great opportunity slip through their fingers.