Tampa Bay Buccaneers drop to second in NFC South after loss, with fans voicing frustration and divisional matchups set to decide their playoff fate.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16 has put their playoff hopes in jeopardy. Now sitting second in the NFC South due to the Atlanta Falcons holding the tiebreaker, the Bucs face a crucial final stretch of divisional matchups to secure their fourth consecutive division title.
Tampa Bay’s offense posted impressive numbers, amassing 411 total yards, including 277 through the air and 134 on the ground. Quarterback Baker Mayfield threw for 304 yards and two touchdowns but was sacked four times and intercepted once. His late-game heroics fell short as a Rachaad White fumble sealed the Cowboys' victory.
Despite the opportunity to win a fourth consecutive division title, frustration among fans toward head coach Todd Bowles is mounting. Critics cite a lackluster pass rush and defensive struggles as key shortcomings under Bowles' leadership. Many fans have expressed support for offensive coordinator Liam Coen, whose unit ranks among the league's best.
“Look. I’m over it now. It sucks we lost control of our playoff destiny, and we made dumb dumb mistakes all night long. We deserved that L. Todd Bowles… I don’t know him, but I know he means well. The NFL is a business. Not personal. It’s time to make the change in the offseason: It’s a “what have you done lately” league— Results matter. Liam Coen has earned the HC job.” wrote one fan.
“Morning after I’m officially in on fire Todd Bowles and hire Liam Coen as HC. Let Liam build his own staff. Truth is Liam’s offense has carried Todd’s [expletive] defense all season. The defense has had zero pass rush and our secondary has been awful under Bowles. No more excuses,” wrote another.
As the division title hangs in the balance, the Buccaneers must capitalize on their remaining schedule. The defense, criticized for inconsistency, will need to step up while Mayfield leads the charge to regain control of the NFC South.
