Bucs Lose NFC Wild-Card Game to Commanders

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' playoff run came to an abrupt end with a 23-20 loss to the Washington Commanders, largely due to quarterback Baker Mayfield's critical fumble in the fourth quarter. After leading 17-13, Mayfield's botched handoff to Jalen McMillan resulted in a turnover that allowed the Commanders to score a go-ahead touchdown. Mayfield accepted responsibility for the error, acknowledging the poor timing and its significant impact on the game's momentum. Although the Buccaneers managed to tie the game with a field goal on their next possession, the Commanders secured victory with a last-second field goal. The Bucs' defense had previously made a crucial stop on fourth down, yet they could not capitalize offensively afterward. The defeat leaves Tampa Bay to reflect on missed opportunities and costly mistakes that defined their short playoff journey.