The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Divisional Round clash with the Detroit Lions is already getting heated. This occurs just after the Buccaneers defeated the Philadelphia Eagles handily to gain some postseason momentum. The Los Angeles Rams were defeated by the Lions 24-23 in a closely contested game that could have gone either way. This Sunday’s matchup between the two teams will mark their second meeting of the season.
Related: Baker Mayfield of the Buccaneers Gets Hit by C.J. Gardner-Johnson Prior to the Detroit Lions game, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, a defensive back for the Lions, discussed the game. However, he attacked Baker Mayfield shortly after complimenting the Buccaneers wide receiver group. “Aside from that Tampa group, this group is probably one of the better groups we have faced all year,” Gardner-Johnson remarked. “Tampa is a great team if you give them a good quarterback.” What a fantastic group Evans, Godwin, and (Russell) Gage are. I actually competed against them.
The Bucs’ unwarranted praise was directed towards Mayfield, as Gardner-Johnson implied that the quarterback isn’t very good. Mayfield was questioned on Wednesday over Gardner-Johnson’s statement, of course. He referenced Russell Gage, therefore I don’t think he’s actually viewed any movies. We adore Russell, but he hasn’t contributed much this season,” Mayfield remarked. “He may be influenced by the preseason news that has been making the rounds, but even though he missed our opening game, I’m still excited to see him.” He only has to watch a few more films, in my opinion, but he’s a pretty excellent player.”
To be fair, earlier in the season the Buccaneers lost to the Lions 20–6 while scoring only six points. In that game, Mayfield completed 19 of his 37 throws for 206 yards passing. However, the Buccaneers have changed significantly since then.
