TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosted a Gus Swayze look-alike contest on Friday, with quarterback Baker Mayfield taking on the role of judge for the event that quickly caught the attention of fans and players alike. This contest celebrated the fictional character Swayze, featured in Mayfield’s Amazon Prime series, The Undercovers, where he playfully impersonated a Buccaneers superfan.
The Origin of the Gus Swayze Look-Alike Contest
Gus Swayze is a mullet-sporting Buccaneers enthusiast brought to life by Baker Mayfield in his The Undercovers pranks, which mix humor with genuine team spirit. The contest reflected this persona, featuring participants dressed in the iconic gear associated with Swayze, including unmistakable mullets, knee braces, and bandanas, which fans of the show and team would instantly recognize.
Baker Mayfield’s Thoughts on the Competitors
Mayfield praised the dedication of the contestants as he carefully evaluated the finalists. He noted,
“A lot of knee braces. Got that bone-on-bone, no cartilage — you gotta do it,”
reflecting the authenticity of their costumes and spirit. He also said,
“The bandanas are accurate. The effort’s all there, so I appreciate this,”
acknowledging the contestants’ attention to detail and enthusiasm for the event.
All three finalists complemented their looks with signature belt buckles and wallet chains, donning knee braces worn over their pants. Mayfield highlighted the care put into the outfits, commenting,
“The mullets are intact, the sunglasses are accurate, but right now — there’s only one person who has their Crocs in ‘sport mode,’”
emphasizing a unique detail that ultimately distinguished the winner.
Details Behind the Unexpected Winner
The contest’s deciding moment came down to that special touch involving Crocs, which Mayfield singled out as the defining factor. To celebrate the champion’s victory, he awarded a custom-made trophy shaped like a football, decorated with a mullet, mustache, and bandana — all signature elements of the Gus Swayze character. This memorable prize underscored the lighthearted yet spirited nature of the competition.
Why This Contest Matters
The look-alike contest not only boosted team morale but also highlighted Baker Mayfield’s playful engagement with Buccaneers fans through The Undercovers series. Events like this deepen the bond between players and supporters, bringing a sense of fun and unity to the training camp atmosphere. As the Buccaneers prepare for their season ahead, such activities contribute to a positive environment on and off the field.