Broncos vs. Bucs: Mayfield-Godwin Connection Provides Tampa Bay Answer, Trail 17-7
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers return home, looking for a continuation of their success to start the season against the Denver Broncos. Tampa Bay seeks its first 3-0 start since 2005.
The defense remains banged up heading into this matchup with All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. still out of the lineup with an ankle injury. Vita Vea will also miss his first game of the season with a knee injury.
On the offensive side, Baker Mayfield and Chris Godwin hope to further an early season connection that has elevated the Bucs offense through the air.
But Denver has quickly derailed the Bucs' quest for a continued undefeated start.
However, the Bucs finally caught the break they needed. Tampa Bay punched back with its first answer on offense with Mayfield finding Chris Godwin for the Bucs' first points of the game. Denver's lead turned into a 17-7 difference.
That drive happened after the Bucs punched a fumble free. Bucky Irving played a significant role in getting the gears turning on offense. While the run game altogether remains a question for this offense, Irving has presented a glaring solution.
Related: Listen to How Bucs Zyon McCollum's Mindset Has ChangedMayfield started the game rough with an early interception and a missed opportunity on a fourth down completion. For the Bucs to complete a comeback, they will need him to come out sharp in the second half.
This story was originally published September 22, 2024, 11:30 AM.
