What’s behind Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield’s early-season revival?

Most counted Mayfield and the Bucs out this yr, presuming the one-year deal was a disguise for a post-Tom Brady tanking season. Amongst different critics, NFL author Peter King predicted Tampa Bay would solely win twice this season, a press release he is since had to swallow.

The considerations had been truthful. Even with the GOAT final season, the Bucs completed 8-9 with one of many least environment friendly offenses. Changing Brady with a man who’s bounced round 4 groups the previous three seasons wasn’t essentially compelling.

Mayfield used all of it as motivation, fueling the chip on his shoulder that is saving his profession.

The previous Heisman Trophy winner’s revival is a results of his new group leaning on his strengths and, extra importantly, avoiding his weaknesses. 

Mayfield has infamously struggled with turnovers, amassing 64 interceptions and 15 fumbles misplaced in his profession. New Tampa Bay offensive coordinator Dave Canales has thus relied on his QB sparingly, speeding the ball 67 instances via two video games and dumping a considerable workload on second-year RB Rachaad White.

Mayfield can also be snug with not being the group’s star participant, permitting veteran WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin to shine in these roles. He is attributed a lot of his third-down success to these two receivers.

“My job is to distribute the ball to these guys and allow them to do all of the work,” Mayfield informed Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.

It additionally helps that Tampa Bay’s protection has been elite, holding the Vikings and Bears to 17 factors every and solely 605 complete offensive yards. Permitting the Bucs to remain forward on the scoreboard solely additional takes strain off Mayfield.

The largest take a look at will come on Monday night time in opposition to the Eagles, however Mayfield and the Bucs have certainly exceeded expectations to date.