Tampa, FL — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers clinched their third consecutive victory with a 28-13 win over the Las Vegas Raiders at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, propelling them to first place in the NFC South. The victory, coupled with the Atlanta Falcons’ 42-21 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, placed Tampa Bay (7-6) firmly in control of the division.
Despite the scoreline, the Bucs endured mid-game struggles, including three turnovers, but timely defensive stops and fourth-quarter heroics sealed the win. Quarterback Baker Mayfield had a rollercoaster performance, completing 18 of 29 passes for 295 yards and three touchdowns but throwing two interceptions and losing a fumble.
“Turnovers didn’t help,” Head Coach Todd Bowles admitted. “It’s hard to win with three turnovers, but the guys stuck with it and made plays when it mattered. Winning ugly is still winning.”
The Buccaneers opened with a strong first quarter, scoring touchdowns on their first two drives. Mayfield connected with rookie receiver Jalen McMillan for a 15-yard score to cap a 12-play, 85-yard opening drive. Rachaad White added another touchdown on a five-yard reception, staking Tampa to a 14-0 lead. White finished with 109 scrimmage yards and two scores, including a three-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Las Vegas (6-7) clawed back in the second quarter. Mayfield’s turnovers allowed the Raiders to score 10 points, including a one-yard sneak by quarterback Aidan O’Connell. However, Tampa Bay’s defense held firm in the second half, limiting the Raiders to a single field goal. Rookie safety Tykee Smith delivered a critical interception in the third quarter, stopping a 10-minute Raiders drive at the Buccaneers’ seven-yard line.
McMillan’s second touchdown, a 29-yard catch-and-run late in the fourth quarter, put the game out of reach. The rookie’s two-touchdown performance was the first by a Tampa Bay receiver since Mike Evans in 2014.
The Buccaneers’ defense, led by veteran linebacker Lavonte David, stifled the Raiders’ offense. David recorded seven tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery while helping limit star rookie tight end Brock Bowers to just three catches.
With four games remaining, Bowles emphasized the importance of maintaining focus. “We’re happy to be in first, but staying there is the real challenge. December football is all about execution and grit.”
Tampa Bay now prepares for a pivotal Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, looking to extend their winning streak and solidify their playoff position.
