Can Winning Baker Mayfield Show Up In Detroit?
January 20th, 2024
Will career year continue?
Look, Baker Mayfield has made himself a lot of bread this season. Left on the NFL scrap heap, not only did he find a team that actually wanted him as a starter, this same team helped rehabilitate his career.
Mayfield has had his best season in the NFL since he was drafted No. 1 overall out of Oklahoma in 2018. And Mayfield can add to his career year by guiding the Bucs to a win, thus playing in his first conference title game.
But which Mayfield shows up? Is it the guy who didn’t the first time at-bat against the Lions? Is it the guy who looked flummoxed against the slimy Saints three weeks ago?
(Joe is not going to give Mayfield grief about the second Stinking Panthers game. He was a cripple in that game and arguably shouldn’t have been on the field.)
This, Nick Shook of NFL.com types, is the key to the game. If Bad Baker shows up, it’s all over. If Good Baker shows up, the Bucs may just pull off an upset.
Can Mayfield continue baking? Baker Mayfield is one of two former No. 1 overall picks in this matchup discarded by the teams that drafted them, and as we’ve all known for quite some time, he carries himself with a massive chip on his shoulder. That chip (plus some necessary humble pie) has powered the best season of his career, one in which he’s propelled an inconsistent Buccaneers offense into the playoffs despite finishing in the bottom 10 in total offense in the regular season. Despite this low ranking, Mayfield enters the Divisional Round on a heater, becoming the first Buccaneers quarterback to throw for 300-plus yards and three-plus touchdowns in a playoff game in franchise history. He’s 2-1 in the postseason, and to this point, he owns Super Wild Card Weekend. His past in the Divisional Round, however, isn’t as encouraging: He completed 23 of 37 passes for 204 yards, one touchdown and one interception in a road loss to the Chiefs in the 2020 postseason. With vastly different circumstances surrounding Mayfield Sunday, comparing the two is a waste of time — that is, unless he falters again. He’s already written quite a story in 2023 by proving doubters wrong and giving the Bucs a good reason to keep him around for years to come. A second straight strong performance — this time, in hostile territory — would only further justify Tampa Bay’s eventual pursuit of a long-term deal with him, and shock the NFL world in the process.
Given how much Bucs coach Todd Bowles likes Mayfield, and how the Bucs have rallied around Mayfield, it would shock Joe if the Bucs let Mayfield walk at the end of the year, short of some team throwing insane cash at him (Broncos, Steelers, Dixie Chicks?).
So yeah, Joe thinks Mayfield is going to turn his $4 million bet on himself into $30 million a year, perhaps more.
That’s a helluva nice reward for turning around your career and leading a team to a divisional playoff game, or perhaps beyond.
"Sizzle your bacon, ladies & gentlemen." 🥓😂
Baker on the mic is the definition of pure joy. pic.twitter.com/Pp1dwPerlL
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) January 19, 2024
January 20th, 2024 at 12:14 am
Mahomes is THE best qb in the NFL. That being said, he looked like crap in our Super Bowl win over he and the Chiefs. He had no offensive line in front of him, which negates all his abilities (AS would Baker’s)
January 20th, 2024 at 12:32 am
Hopefully Baker will play at the top of his game, Receivers won’t drop so many passes, They leave Todd back in Tampa and get the win over the Lions!
January 20th, 2024 at 12:45 am
Only 8 teams made it this far and the Bucs are one of them! That was way better than I expected for much of the year. Win or lose this has been an interesting year. Some games they have looked terrible but other games, like their last game, they flashed potential. Can they do it again? I would not bet real money on them, but who the he’ll knows for sure which Bucs team will show up. Detroit is the favorite to win, but the Bucs have a sound defense and an offense that has vacilated between mediocre and explosive. A blowout game by Detroit would not surprise me but if Detroit is overconfident and the Bucs play mistake free they might squeek out a victory. Being realistic I think Detroit wins going away. But if Detroit is over confident and the Bucs over achieve , they might pull off an upset. GO BUCKS!
January 20th, 2024 at 12:48 am
It’s Bucs wild bill……
January 20th, 2024 at 1:03 am
1. Pass. Their DBs aren’t that good.
2. Block! Their pass rush is good.
3. Do NOT drop the ball!
4. Feed Evans. He is due for a big game. (100 1-2 TDs)
January 20th, 2024 at 1:18 am
Joe,
At last, you presented an worthy article on Baker.
Yes, which Baker will show up ? The one who scored 22 points in the last two games of the season nearly cost Bucs their third division title or the Baker who was on fire against Texans vs. CJ Stroud ?
Unfortunately, Baker has been on the wrong side of history in the past six years.
Do we want him to prove the entire NLF wrong ? Yes, He performs well in next two games, Bucs will be back in super bowl and Baker will finally find a home in Tampa.
There will be no surprise to the world if he under performs either. He will be on to next city. After all he is still a journeyman. Go Bucs.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:56 am
Joe … ‘It would shock Joe if the Bucs let Mayfield walk at the end of the year, short of some team throwing insane cash at him (Broncos, Steelers, Dixie Chicks?). So yeah, Joe thinks Mayfield is going to turn his $4 million bet on himself into $30 million a year, perhaps more.’
And there-in lies the big question: ‘Can the Bucs afford what they’ve created or will someone else show him the money?’ The same question BTW will apply to Wirfs, Winfield, Evans & McLaughlin.
Mayfield has shown me that he’s a good LEADER but that he NEEDS to be in the right ‘system’ to be effective. He’s not the type of QB who’s gonna put his team on his back and pass them to victory regardless of how well they support him. He NEEDS a solid running game, quality receivers & a competent defense around him (most QBs do IMO). Cleveland didn’t provide that for the most part. Neither did Carolina nor Los Angeles.
And for stretches, neither did the Bucs. But in those games when our defense excelled, when our running game was at least somewhat adequate, when our receivers came on strong, THEN Baker was able to get the various offensive pieces firing on all cylinders. The games that stand out to me as being his best are (1) Eagles’ game; (2) Jaguars’ game; (3) Packers’ game.
January 20th, 2024 at 4:57 am
It’s not 2 different mayfields. The saints threw Brady a big pile of shade a time or two, or three. The saints get amped up and they are a really tough defense. I see Denver and Peyton being the Bucs highest bidder for mayfields services. Peyton had Drew Brees for all those years and if he sees what I see, well we got the second coming of Drew Brees and he knows it. The problem is do the Bucs know it. I see most here on this thread do not realize it yet. Thats the problem. It’s gonna be an interesting off season negotiations for sure. Nobody knows what they got till it’s gone….Go Bucs.
January 20th, 2024 at 5:04 am
Hoping to see Baker bake! And I don’t think the Bucs will let him go either. There will be other teams inquiring about him. And yes he is a journeyman QB. Maybe the Bucs is his home now.
Love seeing the excitement coming from the Bucs mic’d up. This is going to be tough going into Detroit, but the Bucs can win this. Catch the Lions off guard early on, get to Goff, pressure, tone down their fans early, …
Go Bucs!!
January 20th, 2024 at 5:07 am
Ah, Davey Downer LOVES to talk about how the Bucs NEARLY didn’t make the playoffs! 😂 Guess what, David…They DID make the playoffs! Wrong again, David!
January 20th, 2024 at 5:10 am
To add, if I’m rite and Mayield is as good as I think he is; we will win in Detroit.
January 20th, 2024 at 5:11 am
The Lions are a hungry team that will be fueled by a raucous group of fans. For things to work out, Bucs will need major effort from everyone. There is no doubt that the Lion were built the right way with powerful offense and defensive lines. Pennei Sewell plays right OT and he is the best on the right side of any in the NFL. Lions have an ability to keep the ball on long clock eating drives which means Bucs possessions will be fewer. Going to have to force turnovers so that offense can get more opportunities. Without the turnovers, Mayfield and the offense will spend a lot of time watching from the sidelines. If Lions win the toss and go on 8 minute Q1 drive, it will be bad news for Bucs for rest of the day. Hope Todd Bowles will have a bag of tricks to keep pressure on Goff. No secret why Goff has had his career resurrected. His line keeps him upright and gives him time to throw. Most NFL quality QB’s including Tom Brady would say that is essential. It is a team game. Need the whole team to show up Sunday.
January 20th, 2024 at 5:24 am
@gipper. You are correct. There is no I in team. It will certainly take an entire team effort to beat Detroit in Detroit.
Having said that, if mayfield balls out it will not hurt the Bucs chances to prevail victorious.
January 20th, 2024 at 5:42 am
Nope
January 20th, 2024 at 5:49 am
@Gipper and Bring back the lawn chairs. Both correct! The Bucs can overcome if Baker is not baking. The team needs to bring it on. Hoping Bowles has some new tricks to overcome Goff. Their coach probably already has many up his sleeve. They are hungry for their first Super Bowl. The Texans and Bills have never won one either. The Bills have come close. So they are all hungry too.
January 20th, 2024 at 5:49 am
Baker should be wearing a mic every single game.
January 20th, 2024 at 6:01 am
I don’t see teams lining up to sign Baker. He’ll be viewed as Geno Smith, who had a bit of a career bump, but has proved he can’t play better then .500 ball. Yes, Baker is last years Geno, and the funny thing is they played in the same system. Pretty much the same result, 9-8 seasons. One team the Bucs are giddy with the result. After a second 9-8 season Seattle fired their head coach, Tampa couldn’t be happier with theirs. Wonder how we’ll feel next year paying 40 million a year to Baker, and finishing 9-8 again only this time missing the playoffs? Seems we’re headed down the Seahawks road.
January 20th, 2024 at 6:15 am
goedeke mic’d up has been the best all season…so far
and looks like we just might have found our quarterback moving forward for a few years
January 20th, 2024 at 6:18 am
fun fact of the day…
detroit finished the season 4-3 in their last 7 games…just 1 game over .500…
add in the victory over the rams and they are 5-3 in their last 8…
maybe they are down cycling a little bit…
but those numbers prove they are not invincible
January 20th, 2024 at 6:25 am
With every article that you write..you and the nay sayers just keep showing how incompetent you all really are..you want blood from this kid too..just like the clowns in Cleveland…smh..
January 20th, 2024 at 6:54 am
ohhhh “randy andy”… bitchin’ like pooh bear
January 20th, 2024 at 7:06 am
Scoring points on their 1st possession of Iggs game was huge. In the NFL the team that scores first wins almost 57% of the time. That might not sound like much , but a professional gambler makes a nice living off 57%. Coaches outperformed their Philadelphia counterparts big time and we will need the same great coaching in Motown. Great year for Tampa win or lose , Bucs are playing with house money , so throw in a Jap play or two and let it roll.
January 20th, 2024 at 7:36 am
I have not been a baker fan all year. But he can throw 400 and 4 TD’s tomorrow if the Bucs catch the ball.
January 20th, 2024 at 7:53 am
I believe he will play very well tomorrow…..he’s healthy and motivated…..come out firing!!!
January 20th, 2024 at 8:06 am
This inconsistent tag on Baker is completely false. 1. Years 1-3 he had very good stats despite 4 head coaches. 2. He had played at a high level in all 3 playoff games. 3. In year 4 he was fantastic until his torn labrum in game 4. He should have gotten surgery the next day. He wont make that mistake again. Year 5 the Browns stabbed him in the back and are now paying for it with 50 m cap hit per year for a criminal who has hardly played in 2 years. He got injured again at Panthers but landed with fan boy LA Mcvey who turned his life around after the abuse in Cleveland. This year you have to factor in inconSistency for the whole offence because everyone was learning on the fly. Doods were offsides, dropping balls, running into stacked defenses etc. Saints 2 Bakes could have pulled out a miracle win if Palmer and whyte had not fumbled. Panthers 2 was a windy defensive battle. Bryce who is 3 inches shorter had worse stats. The kicker saved the day.
January 20th, 2024 at 8:10 am
Definately be aggressive with Blitzes and trick plays. Bucs are playing with house money and have nothing to lose.
January 20th, 2024 at 8:17 am
Most of the reasons given by the talking analyst heads for a Kittens victory are non football ones…Raucous crowd, long suffering fans, 30 years, Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin in heaven will change the play review tape etc……..
January 20th, 2024 at 8:22 am
“Mayfield has had his best season in the NFL since he was drafted No. 1 overall out of Oklahoma in 2018.”
–Pretty easy to understand why. Mayfield never had two number 1 receivers flanking the line at the same time.
“But which Mayfield shows up? Is it the guy who didn’t the first time at-bat against the Lions? Is it the guy who looked flummoxed against the slimy Saints three weeks ago?”
–I”m not sold on the good Baker vs. bad Baker premise. The game plan masterminds appeared to have much more to do with our prior sleep walk performances. But Baker does have a bad habit of holding the ball too long. I’d like to see more scrambles after his 2 seconds are up, or throw the ball away. Anyway, aside from that, the larger question out to be which coaching strategy shows up? No risk it, or sleepy eyes?
January 20th, 2024 at 8:31 am
Depends
run up the middle on 1st and 2nd and then ask your Qb to bail you out on third with no rythm then – you get what you get
Thats the silliness of all this bad and good baker ( or any Qb) stuff. Its rather ignorantly divorced from the game plan for each game. Don’t tell me the Jags game was the same plan as the Saints game. I’ll laugh.
We’ve talked about the Bucs playing down to their competition. I doubt its the playera. I think the “down” competition, or the ones we are not terribly afraid of, brings out the – “lets win by defense abd run up the middle” approach.
When we get down in game or face an offense we know is going to score then we play more up tempo. I am hoping the playoff win-or-go-home elimination format has our defense coach thinking – whatevr – win however we can.
January 20th, 2024 at 8:41 am
Sign Mayfield,He’s proven enough!
January 20th, 2024 at 9:06 am
At this point this guy is talking about one of four QBs in the entire NFC who remain standing. Good? Bad?…Really? Last time I checked this was still a team sport…”sport”!
Go Bucs!
January 20th, 2024 at 9:07 am
Has anyone seen any injury reports?
January 20th, 2024 at 9:08 am
Baker was Top 10 in most important categories this year but there is one category that cannot be measured by stats and that is heart. I would argue that he finished number one in heart and inspiring his teammates by his play. He has taken a group of players who were written off preseason by all of the pundits and turned them into winners. Will we beat Detroit? I don’t see why not. Regardless of the outcome Mayfield has turned this team and this city into believers
January 20th, 2024 at 9:13 am
That saints defense made the goat “looked flummoxed” so no big deal
January 20th, 2024 at 9:15 am
Seems to be a consistent formula to winning this year: come out hot.
This is not a game where this team can afford to get behind a couple of scores and prevail.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:18 am
He’s winning now. That’s all that matters. He played a great game last week and I hope he plays another great game tomorrow and every time he plays. But I still think Trask is better.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:22 am
Buccos Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:08 am
He has taken a group of players who were written off preseason by all of the pundits and turned them into winners.
—————————-
Baker joined a team of Super Bowl Winners and they turned HIM into a winner. Just like they did with Brady
January 20th, 2024 at 9:22 am
MarkyMark,
You are spot on with the truth about Baker. The rest of the noise from so called fans is just that, noise. You obviously followed his entire career in Cleveland and know the truth. When I make honest comments how STATISICALLY his first 6 years in the NFL compare favorably to Brady and Brees I get blasted by the many on this blog. DIdn’t say his team W-L record was better than Brady because Baker didn’t have a stable coaching situation and the Browns just didn’t have very good players other than Chubb and a good run blocking line. Baker biggest mistake was to try to play the whole 2021 season with a torn labrum. Baker and anyone who stands with him has been maligned on these pages. Just wanted to thank you for having the guts to stand up to the haters. It would be great if Baker can help deliver a W tomorrow. Most of us know that it will take a real team effort to make that happen.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:29 am
I can’t believe people are still running smack at Bowles or Baker!!! Yet here we are…leave Todd in Tampa!
Some of you guys could get lucky with Kate Upton and then gripe about her weight.
At the end of the day if RESULTS do not count why the f do you bother to watch?
I would add another trait to Baker’s game this year to go along with other improvements…he has MATURED!!!
Baker has been LOVED by the fans of his two major teams…the Browns and the Bucs…OBJ PRIMA DONNA EXTRADAIRE…more mouth than even his prodigious talent…and the “commercials” and some really horrid coaches killed it for him in Cleveland. He was making TEN MILLION a year from commercials.
NONE of that was HIS fault!! Was he supposed to turn down ten million a year?
He did not write the freaking commercials! If they sucked blamed the AD agency!
And give BOWLES along with Canales some credit here. Baker knew EXACTLY what was expected…DO NOT TURN THE BALL OVER, and Baker will still occasionally feisty has reined it in a bit. As Bowles instructed him he realizes hat HE does not have to win the games…as Bowles instructed him…simply drive the car.
I honestly do not comprehend how anybody cannot at least enjoy Mayfield after that video. I was ready to run through a wall after watching that and I’m an old man sitting in my living room. Can you even imagine how much FUN these guys are having playing with him? As Ian Beckles pointed out watching four OL immediately go after a guy for laying on Baker too long.
IF the Lions try and cheap shot Baker tomorrow this game will turn very UGLY because IMHO our OL will seek revenge. I hope it doesn’t result in any game changing penalities.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:31 am
Mayfield 1st 7 years: yards 20,332 TDS 130 INTS 74 Avg Passer rating 88.1
Tom Brady had a passer rating of 88.4 with 21,564 yards, 147 touchdowns and 78 interceptions in 96 games in his first 7 seasons.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:37 am
Lets see he performs sunday before we back up the brinks truck to his home.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:39 am
stpetebucfan Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:29 am
I can’t believe people are still running smack at Bowles or Baker!!! Yet here we are…leave Todd in Tampa!
___________________
Stpete,
Agree with you on everything. Hoping for the best tomorrow, but if not it has been a fun season that has exceeded the talking heads expectations.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:42 am
I’m not sure what is the point of continually bringing up his past seasons –new team new system, he has relatively few years in the league, thus each season he improves measureably over the previous. Jarod Goff was given up for dead by Sean McVay and the Rams… Yet he has somehow improved to the QB who beat them
January 20th, 2024 at 9:44 am
ATLBuc Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:22 am
Buccos Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:08 am
He has taken a group of players who were written off preseason by all of the pundits and turned them into winners.
—————————-
Baker joined a team of Super Bowl Winners and they turned HIM into a winner. Just like they did with Brady
THIS is the funniest, most ridiculous post I’ve seen on this here site!!!!! You think the Bucs turned the winningest QB of ALL TIME into a winner??????!!!???!
HAHAHAHAHABAHAHAHBAHABHABAHAHAH!!!!!!
That’s rich!!!!!!
January 20th, 2024 at 9:45 am
Brad Spielberger from PFF projected that Baker will get a 3 year deal for 75 million and he’s been one of the best guys out there projecting contracts. Falls in line with what I said the other day of 25-30M a season.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:49 am
Buccos: Great comments.
MarkyMark and Gipper: Thats the true story about Baker!
ALTbucs: Can’t decide whether you and David are just slime-balls or liars. You’re certainly not fans. The Kult is Dead!
Keep winning Bucs.
Keep winning Baker.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:51 am
I know the solution to all these comments…
Play the game and see what happens!!!
LFG Bucs!!
January 20th, 2024 at 9:54 am
If the Bucs decide to keep Baker and Baker decides to stay with the Bucs, I think the contract would be 3 years for 100M (plus incentives). Meaning that Baker would take a lot less than a few other teams would be offering to stay in Tampa. Hopefully, he’s found a home.
January 20th, 2024 at 10:00 am
ATLBuc Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:31 am
Mayfield 1st 7 years: yards 20,332 TDS 130 INTS 74 Avg Passer rating 88.1
Tom Brady had a passer rating of 88.4 with 21,564 yards, 147 touchdowns and 78 interceptions in 96 games in his first 7 seasons.
________
Hey ATLBUC,
Baker just concluded his 6th year in the NFL. My comparison was for the first 6 years of Brady vs Baker. Will make it easy for you. Baker rookie season was 2018. His 6th year was just concluded 2023 season.
You need to go back and take a remedial counting class.
January 20th, 2024 at 10:03 am
I remember when fans were comparing Winston’s first few years to Peyton Manning’s first few years and look how that turned out lol. The early 2000s and today are completely different eras to compare stats. Brady also won 3 Super Bowls in his first six years but I guess we aren’t mentioning that
January 20th, 2024 at 10:09 am
To the fans that complain every day about baker and Bowles time for you to appreciate where we are. I was on the fire Bowles train, I was wrong.if you look at our situation 80 million over the cap , new offensive coordinator, all these rookies playing we should not be here in the playoffs but we are.
I wish we had a better fan base. Guys like David and all the other chronic complainers should find another team. You don’t deserve to be associated with the buccaneers
January 20th, 2024 at 10:11 am
Dom Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 10:03 am
I remember when fans were comparing Winston’s first few years to Peyton Manning’s first few years and look how that turned out lol.
_______
Tom Brady never would have become “HOF Tom Brady” if he had to play for the most dysfunctional NFL team in the NFL–The Cleveland Browns—for the last 24 years. In fact, he like so many ex Browns QB’s would have very few teeth and have trouble walking.
January 20th, 2024 at 10:13 am
@ StPete/Defense Rules
I agree.
Well said.
I hope the “good” Baker shows up in Detroit.
LFG!
January 20th, 2024 at 10:19 am
@Gipper
Baker Mayfield’s Browns weren’t your typical Browns in his last couple years on the team. They had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, an elite RB, a solid group of WR’s, a good HC and offensive mind in Kevin Stefanski, and a good defense. Like what are we talking about here? Comparing Baker to the GOAT is dumb. The disrespect Brady gets on this site is ridiculous
January 20th, 2024 at 10:43 am
The bucs team carried Mayfield to the playoffs. Just like they would any other average QB. The headline says exactly what will happen. Everyone knows the bucs team will show up. The one game the defense let us down was more about the Texans QB. Everyone knows that Mayfield disappears in half’s and games especially the first half. A major portion of his stats are in the fourth Quarter when the other team has already won the game. You will know in the first quarter who is quarterbacking the team. Because he lights it up early or he sheets the bed right away. I got to say you know right away what your getting with him. I hope he lights it up. LFG.
January 20th, 2024 at 10:48 am
DomSays,
Remind me who those great Browns wide receivers were. Jarvis Landry was a good player but strictly a possession slot receiver. OBJ a totally undisciplined route runner who was all about himself. This year OBJ younger than Mike Evans had league MVP throwing to him on the Ravens and had a poorer season than any with Baker. Nick Chubb could make any offensive line look good. Grant you the Browns OL is solid on run blocking but no prize protecting a QB. Inability to protect QB’s more than anything lead to Watson becoming QB. Watson is a more mobile QB than most and has the ability to create. That mobility is great right up to the point where your $45mil/year QB gets hurt and gets to watch most of the season from the sidelines. Never suggested that Baker was better than Brady. Will say again for all you slow learners that STATISICALLY their first 6 years in the NFL look equal. Let me what is meant by STATS—Number of TD passes, INT’s, Comp %, Yards per attempt. Didn’t say anything about W-L experience other than Baker showed up in 2018 and joined a team without Bill Belichick that was 1-31 in the two years before he arrived. Baker when he finally got to play in the 3rd game of the 2018 season set the NFL rookie record for TD’s. That is another STATISTIC that some of us think is important in understanding the Baker Cleveland story. Many of us had to spend way too much time defending Baker against a collection of NFL football rubes who have a never ending capacity to say really dumb things on theses pages. Hoping the entire team excels tomorrow.
January 20th, 2024 at 10:53 am
What if Baker gives a FU to the rest of the league and rewards the Bucs for taking a chance on him by taking less money so we can continue to build the team? Like he takes 20-25 mil a year. That would be something amazing! Not counting on it but it could happen and we could keep AW Jr. AND ME13. All Licht has too do is work his magic! I’ll keep dreaming for us lol
January 20th, 2024 at 11:07 am
Hey Gipper, I think the Bucs would give the Browns a serious run for the money for the “most dysfunctional NFL team….” The only difference is the ages of the 2 franchises. You should have been around back during the Dark Ages ‘cept for 1979. And Methuselah12 is history. I sure hope my Bucs win tomorrow, but either way, they have had one h3lluva season, and this long-suffering fan is very proud of them! Do Bucs!!
January 20th, 2024 at 11:09 am
*Go Bucs!* 🙂
January 20th, 2024 at 11:18 am
orlbucfan Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 11:07 am
Hey Gipper, I think the Bucs would give the Browns a serious run for the money for the “most dysfunctional NFL team….”
——————-
I remember the John McKay expansion era Bucs very well. McKay at least had a great sense of humor. More people following any NFL football team should have a sense of humor. It is just pure entertainment not life and death stuff.
January 20th, 2024 at 11:35 am
So a question for all…IF you can eliminate any irrational Baker hate.
I just read that Brock Purdy is one of the leading candidates for NFC MVP.
That revives an old debate. Is the MVP the best at his position in the Conference or the guy whose team needed him most.
If it’s the latter then Mayfield cleans Purdy’s clock. With Philly and Dallas now exposed it’s down to KC and Buffalo and IMO the very best team talent wise in the league…the SF 49ers.
My point is simple. There are quite a few QB’s who can and have thrived in SF’s superior organization. Before the Bucs found the perfect short term mercenary in Brady…an admittedly stop gap move to win a SB…the Bucs QB position has hardly been a spot for guys to thrive. How many QB’s could win with SF. How many QB’s would have won with this year’s Bucs?
This franchise spent five years trying to nurture a #1 draft pick who had considerable talent from the neck down. How did that work out?
January 20th, 2024 at 11:48 am
NaplesBucsFan Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:44 am
ATLBuc Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:22 am
Buccos Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 9:08 am
He has taken a group of players who were written off preseason by all of the pundits and turned them into winners.
—————————-
Baker joined a team of Super Bowl Winners and they turned HIM into a winner. Just like they did with Brady
THIS is the funniest, most ridiculous post I’ve seen on this here site!!!!! You think the Bucs turned the winningest QB of ALL TIME into a winner??????!!!???!
HAHAHAHAHABAHAHAHBAHABHABAHAHAH!!!!!!
Brady didn’t get run out of New England for winning. He’s the GOAT but there’s no other team he could have joined that would have taken him to the super bowl. Brady played okay but it was the defense that won it for us
January 20th, 2024 at 11:51 am
stpetebucfan
I think Baker is more of a MVP candidate than Purdy. But I still think Trask is better. That 4 interception prime time game should have vanquished all the ridiculous Purdy MVP talk
January 20th, 2024 at 12:05 pm
Its all house money. No need to nitpick the success of this season. We can just watch and let the chips fall where they may. This team has been competitive at the right time. Its not unusual for a wild card team to run the tables in the post season in the NFC. I like the edge Baker has brought to this team, and I appreciate the pressure packages Todd Bowles is dialing up. This team is playing its best football of the season, and they are playing to win at all three aspects of the game. LFG!
January 20th, 2024 at 12:12 pm
@Gipper
Again though comparing Brady’s first six years statistically to Bakers first six isn’t an accurate measurement. That’s what I mean by you can’t compare different eras. Go back to league stats during Brady’s first six years. The numbers on average are down compared to today’s game because of rule changes that have been crippled defenses, as well as offenses continuing to innovate themselves. By year 4 and 5 Brady was already a top 5 QB in the league. Baker was not.
And I never said he had great WR’s in Cleveland. I said he had solid WR’s, combined with an elite RB, one of the best O-Lines, a good HC/play caller, and a good defense. His first few couple years it was rough. Of course it was, they went 0-16 the year they drafted him. But the team turned it around by the time they moved off him.
January 20th, 2024 at 12:44 pm
I trust Baker to show up, the real question is which version of Canales are we gonna get, run run pass Canales or aggressive Canales?
January 20th, 2024 at 12:45 pm
First, yes Baker should be mic’ed up every game.
Dom (and others) what a lot of you who didn’t follow the Browns don’t realize is that while they had a “great” O-line on paper, the 5 starters were only on the field together for the first 3 games – after that there were serious injuries. During the Jets game that year they played a center and 4 guards. In another game, Baker literally had to introduce himself to one of the linemen before the game.
As for “good” Baker vs “Bad” – did any of you notice that the “bad” games all correspond to games where we do the “run on first and 2nd down, pass on 3rd and long” game plans? We didn’t do that against the Packers. We didn’t do that against Philly. We didn’t do it against Houston, nor did we against the Jaguars. All games that Baker played great in. Think there is a correlation there? I do. So, if you want “good” Baker, tell Canales.
January 20th, 2024 at 1:04 pm
Those like me who have a deep respect for Baker Mayfield and all of his life’s challenges that he has continued to overcome,
We we recognize one thing: these negative Baker haters are going to hate, even if he wins a SB, becomes league MVP, ends his career with 60,000 yards passing, etc- they will all still say he can’t get it done. Etc etc etc. These people have issues because they deny what’s right in front them: the fact that Baker is already an American success story. Nothing will change that.
January 20th, 2024 at 1:40 pm
Marine Buc … ‘I hope the “good” Baker shows up in Detroit.’
Me too. A lot of excellent points have been made by various JBFers about ‘good Baker’ versus ‘bad Baker’. I think I’ve come to believe that WHEN Canales has developed & calls a good game plan, WHEN our OLine provides reasonable pass protection, WHEN our running game is at least somewhat adequate, WHEN our receivers don’t drop too many balls, and WHEN our defense limits our opposition to its average in Points Allowed (and preferably gets 1 or 2 takeaways) THEN ‘good Baker’ can show up & put up enough points to win the game. IOW we win when our TEAM is firing on ALL cylinders.
Bucs have a decent chance to beat the Lions because we’re healthy AND we’re hungry. This team feels like it has a LOT to prove, and they seem to feed off that. They also though seem to feed off BIG PLAYS (early especially) and it looks to me like they’ve grown enough this year to make more & more of those. The Eagles’ game was a beautiful example of that on both the offensive AND defensive sides of the ball. And yes, Special Teams also. We’ll need a great game from ALL to beat the Lions, BUT we’re capable of that now. I’m expecting a GRRREAT game tomorrow.
January 20th, 2024 at 1:48 pm
DomSays,
Mayfield in his 3rd Browns season 2020 almost took the Browns to victory over Chiefs at Patrick MAHomes in second round AFC playoff game. Refs missed a helmet spearing call at goal line on pass from Mayfield to Higgins. Higgins fumbled through the end zone much like the Winfileld tackle that was legal and resulted in touchback in Panthers game.
In 2021 season Mayfield got hurt early in second game and tried to play injured all year when he should not have. 2022 season Browns sign DeMassage Watson and trade Baker to Panthers. Baker requested release in 2022 from Panthers and joined an injury riddled Rams. Coach there loved Baker but they had signed injured Matthew Stafford to a mega contract. With Stafford recovery in 2023 Baker signs free agent contract with Tampa. Baker has outplayed Stafford again STATISTICALlLY in 2023. For all the haters, Stats are the basis we compare one company to another in the same industry. Like companies we compare players to other players same position. Even if the haters dismiss the great year that Baker has had in 2023, guarantee you that GM’s will make STATISTICAL comparisons of all QB’s when considering Baker’s contract going forward. By the way the STATS include the good the bad and the mediocre games played. None of this is very complicated but have to talk baby talk to the many know it all’s who have bashed Baker all season.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:10 pm
I am a proud OU fan and happy to see Bake doing well again. His NFL struggles helped him mature without losing his ferocious competitive desire to win and do so as a team member. He is a hero in my book. Best of luck to my fellow OU alum. We love you.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:27 pm
I’ve become a fan of Baker after being a skeptic because of his immaturity with teammates and coaches as well as on field decision making in his past.
Tom Brady > Baker Mayfield
By trying to rationalize that Baker is TB12’s equal, that person is also saying that Baker is at the same level as Montana or Stabauch or Starr or Unitas.
Those guys are in the discussion of GOAT, but Baker is not, and in the end Tom Brady tops them all.
Anybody trying to work themselves into a pretzel 🥨 to argue otherwise to somehow compare the Baker as Brady’s equal has lost all perspective.
Tom Brady’s journey to a 7 Time Super Bowl Champion Quarterback and the GOAT from a 6th Round draft pick who was the 3rd string quarterback who got placed on the practice squad his rookie season and only made the roster for 1 game is the stuff of Legends.
The reality of TB12’s journey easily beats Hollywood’s tale of failure, persistence and triumph in Rocky.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:29 pm
ATLBUC…..you “think Trask is better” than Mayfield? Based on what? How he did in college?
“College?” “You’re talking college???” “College????”
The best players play. The rest ride the pine. Period.
Doing well in college against defenses that have maybe 2 or 3 NFL-caliber players (if any) is hardly an accurate measuring stick.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:42 pm
BelleGladeBuc Says:
January 20th, 2024 at 2:27 pm
I’ve become a fan of Baker after being a skeptic because of his immaturity with teammates and coaches as well as on field decision making in his past.
Tom Brady > Baker Mayfield;
__________
Don’t know how many times I have to say this but this is the last. Before Brady was the GOAT he played his first 6 years for NE Patriots. Mayfield has also played 6 full NFL seasons. On the basis of each of their first six years STATISTICALLY the Brady/Baker comparison for TD,INT, Comp%, Yards/Attempt are very similar. I don’t know if Baker will ever be the next GOAT. Doubt that he will. In fact, first thing Baker said when he joined the team was that he wasn’t capable of being as good as Brady. Can’t make what I have been saying anymore clear. Will add this however, if Baker has similar stats to Brady’s first 6 years he MAY also have a long successful career in the NFL. Baker is hardly “a journeyman QB” that so may in these posts say with scornful derision.
January 20th, 2024 at 2:44 pm
I’m not behind Baker long term but I’d love to see him win tomorrow.
Prove me wrong!
January 20th, 2024 at 6:09 pm
stpete, I truly believe everything in the NFL as far as pro bowls, MVP, OPOTY, and such are really just a popularity thing. The only thing I look at for the past few years is the all pro players. Most everything gets outside votes that too many times don’t make any sense.
January 20th, 2024 at 6:19 pm
Gipper, you can’t compare QBs that started almost 20 years apart. The league has changed. This is why I laugh when anyone tries to compare under 10 year QBs to one’s that played before 2010. Rules help the offense now. That’s why we’ve seen more 5k passers in recent years. I don’t hate Baker, but I’m also not a fan. The roller coaster that has been Baker is what I expected. I’ll give him credit on good games and talk smack about bad games. But never try to compare any QB stats to QB stats of over 10 years. Not the same league. Defenses could kill a QB years ago and mug a receiver without a flag.
January 20th, 2024 at 6:39 pm
NC Buc,
Oh yeah, name the QB’s this year in a 17game schedule who threw for over 5000 yards. You can’t because there aren’t any. Furthermore your premise is totally wrong. The refs look the other way on near constant DB hand checking that occurs on most every passing play. If anything the refs today are more lenient. To call PI on a DB these days it has to be a virtual mugging. For this reason scoring in the NFL is down this year.
January 20th, 2024 at 7:05 pm
This is from the football database site.
In 2006 there were only 2 teams in the NFL with double digit defensive pass interference fouls called on them in the NFL, and the other 30 teams had single digit defensive pass interference fouls called on them.
In 2023 there were only 12 teams in the NFL with double digit defensive pass interference fouls called on them in the NFL, and the other 20 teams had single digit defensive pass interference fouls called on them.
In 2006 there were only 8 teams in the NFL with double digit defensive holding fouls called on them in the NFL, and the other 24 teams had single digit defensive holding fouls called on them.
In 2023 there were only 15 teams in the NFL with double digit defensive holding fouls called on them in the NFL, and the other 17 teams had single digit defensive holding fouls called on them.
The league has changed.
Offenses are heavily favored by the new rules.
That’s just the reality.
January 20th, 2024 at 7:48 pm
The film does not lie. There is no good Baker and Bad Baker. What naysayers have called Bad Baker games had more penalties calling back positive plays, more 1st down runs, inexperienced o-line taken advantage of, pass drops and hurried throws. Had some nagging injuries during middle of the season on offense and defense. Last 7 games a lot of that has been resolved. Just like coach speak, minimize penalties, no turnovers and catch the ball and the Bucs win.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:43 pm
BelleGladeBuc,
Actually you are making my point. The incidence of PI calls in the last 17 years is up because there is MORE interference going on. What you have sighted are the calls that are MADE. I am telling you that DB’s are getting away with a lot more that don’t get called. DB’s are coached to be grabby with hands and where possible to block receiver vision. Watch the replays carefully tomorrow on both defenses, you will see plenty of extracurricular hand activity that doesn’’t get called. Appreciate your effort to support your argument with data. If the refs called PI as often as they should, the game would be taken over by refs. For the most part unless it is glaringly obvious refs just let them play on.
January 20th, 2024 at 9:46 pm
Football is a team game. Period. Go Bucs!!!!!
January 21st, 2024 at 11:44 am
Gipper
John Lynch has said that he couldn’t play the way that they did in today’s NFL because of the rule changes.
Watch Lott’s and Lynch’s Hall of Fame highlight reels and they are now an instructional manual today for how not to play football as they are filled with illegal hits by today’s rules and defensive holding/DPI by today’s rules.
Just watch Ty Law and Terrell Buckley vs Isaac Bruce and Tory Holt in the 2002 NFL Super Bowl between the Patriots and Rams.
There were times that Law and Buckley were bear hugging or chucking those receivers out of bounds past 5 yards and no penalty was thrown.
Willie McGinnist and Richard Seymour would not be allowed to hit Kurt Warner like they did in today’s NFL.
Rules have definitely changed the way the game is called and refereed.