During Week 10 against the San Francisco 49ers, Baker Mayfield executed a pivotal play that showcased his resilience and skill under pressure. Facing a critical fourth-and-seven situation while trailing 20-17, Mayfield used a powerful stiffarm to evade defensive star Nick Bosa before delivering a precise lobbed completion to Rachaad White. This play became a defining moment for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their effort to take control of the game.
Buccaneers quarterbacks coach Thaddeus Lewis reflected on the significance of this play, highlighting its importance in the context of the game. According to Lewis, this was precisely the kind of moment when Mayfield needed to rise to the occasion.
That right there was a ‘gotta have it,’
said Lewis, via Scott Smith of the team’s site.
That was a ‘gotta have it’ moment. So I would want that guy show up in the ‘gotta have it’ moments. Early in the game, if it’s not there I would prefer him to throw it away or get down, or check it down, add to the punt. Let’s play a little team ball; we have a good defense. Let’s flip the field. We don’t have to get it all in one shot. In certain instances, he thought he had to put us on his back, and make some plays like that. Which he did…it’s a fine line. That’s the thing that you fine-tune – when and when not? If we can get that under control and limit the turnovers, I think we can be unstoppable as a team for sure.
Balancing Mayfield’s Aggression With Longevity Concerns
While Mayfield’s aggressive style has been crucial to the Buccaneers’ competitive edge, Lewis emphasized the need for him to protect his body as he enters his 30s. The coach acknowledged Mayfield’s competitive nature but urged smarter decision-making to avoid unnecessary hits that could impact his availability down the line.
He’s always out to prove himself, but he’s his own worst enemy,
said Lewis.
We’ve just to get him out of harm’s way. I like his competitive nature, but I don’t like it to the extent where he keeps getting hit and he won’t be available. He’s getting older, he turned 30, so I joke with him now, ‘Welcome to the 30 Club. You’re older now, so that’s hits you took in your 20s might affect you a little differently in your 30s. Just to get him to start being smart, take less hits, throw it away, maybe get down. Be competitive in situations called ‘gotta have it’ situations – first down, touchdown, end of the game, things like that. But I love him to death. I wouldn’t trade him for nothing or his competitive nature.
Lewis reiterated the importance of Mayfield becoming more cautious, especially by managing pressure situations and minimizing turnovers through smarter play.
All the time, even in practice,
said Lewis.
I might say, ‘Hey man, you’ve got to get down there.’ ‘You don’t think I can run him over?’ ‘I know you can run him over but I’d rather you’d get down and I have you for the next play.’ But that’s just him joking and his competitive spirit. But that’s the next step for him moving forward, because the older you get your mobility and ability goes away sometimes. So you have to be smart. Just start getting him to play heady and understand situations and getting out of harm’s way. That would help us a lot because that would also limit turnovers because he’s thinking in that manner. You don’t have to be a Superman.
Panthers Introduce Versatile Tight End Mitchell Evans
The Carolina Panthers recently selected tight end Mitchell Evans in the fifth round of the NFL Draft after his impressive final college season at Notre Dame. Head coach Dave Canales expressed enthusiasm about Evans’ athletic ability and his recent progress during the team‘s initial practices.
We’re excited about Mitch, Canales shared, emphasizing Evans’ versatility on the field.
Just looking at Mitch, what carries over from the film is just a really versatile guy. Whether it was the individual drills, going through blocking with (tight ends coach) Pat (McPherson), the footwork stuff, and then just being a reliable target.
He’s a really smooth mover in his routes, plays compact at the top. So just all of those things, we just felt like a really well-rounded, clean football player and certainly fits into what we do.
Saints Manage Injuries and Adjust Offensive Line Positions
New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore provided updates on the health and positional changes within his team. Tight ends Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau are currently recovering from knee injuries and will not participate in Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Moore addressed the shift in the offensive line where last season’s left tackle Taliese Fuaga has moved to the right side, and former right tackle Trevor Penning has shifted to guard to accommodate first-round pick Kelvin Banks.
Moore downplayed concerns about these positional changes, calling them overblown and emphasizing the adaptability of players across offensive line spots.
“I don’t really care about left tackle, right tackle components in this league.”
Looking Ahead for Mayfield and the Buccaneers
Baker Mayfield’s decisive fourth-and-seven play demonstrated his will to lead and help the Buccaneers battle for victory in challenging moments. As he continues to mature as a quarterback, the team‘s coaching staff is focused on helping him balance his aggressive instincts with smarter decisions to preserve his health and effectiveness over the season. Limiting turnovers and avoiding unnecessary hits could greatly increase the team’s potential, making them a formidable force as the NFL schedule progresses.
Meanwhile, teams like the Panthers and Saints continue to develop fresh talent and manage roster changes, all aiming to strengthen their competitive edge for the season. With the NFL season in full swing, the intensity and strategic adjustments by teams spotlight the high stakes involved in every game.