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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers survived a late scare from the New York Jets to secure a 29-27 victory Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. This victory means they start the season with a 3-0 record, and for the first time since 2005.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield once again delivered in the clutch, guiding the Buccaneers on their third consecutive game-winning drive of the young season. After the Jets erased what was once a 23-6 deficit and briefly took the lead on a blocked field-goal return late in the fourth quarter, Mayfield coolly marched Tampa Bay downfield. His completions to rookie wideout Emeka Egbuka and veteran Sterling Shepard set up kicker Chase McLaughlin for a 36-yard field goal as time expired.
The kick gave Tampa Bay the win but also etched their name in the record books. According to the Buccaneers, they are the first team in NFL history to open a season with three straight victories decided by go-ahead scores in the final minute of regulation. The 3-0 opening also marks the fifth time in franchise history they’ve reached such a start. And in each of the previous four instances, they went on to make the playoffs.
Mayfield’s leadership has been at the center of this streak. He completed 19 of 29 passes for 233 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions, posting a 101.7 passer rating. He also scrambled for 44 yards, including a 33-yard run that helped extend the Bucs’ final drive. Through three weeks, Mayfield has six touchdown passes without a single interception, placing him alongside Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson and Buffalo’s Josh Allen in that elite category.
The Buccaneers’ defense had its share of big moments, too. Cornerback Jamel Dean returned an interception 55 yards for a touchdown, while safety Antoine Winfield Jr. added a strip sack that set up a score. Veteran linebacker Lavonte David finished with 11 tackles and a sack, moving into rare company with at least 40 career sacks, 30 forced fumbles, and 10 interceptions.
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“We Stick Together”: Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield on the team’s resilience
For Mayfield, the Buccaneers’ unbeaten run is about more than just a few clutch throws or last-minute kicks. He sees it as a reflection of the team’s mindset, one built on grit, balance, and belief in each other, no matter the circumstances.
“It is much of the same, resilient group, we stick together,” Mayfield said after the win. “The whole team, when one phase is a little bit down, others have to pick it up and be there for you. That’s what this team is all about, we support each other no matter what. It is a resilient, mentally tough group.”
The Buccaneers may still have plenty of football left to play, but their early-season resilience has already set them apart. With a two-game cushion in the NFC South and history on their side, they will hope to carry on the momentum when they face the Eagles in week 4.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was the last time the Tampa Bay Buccaneers started a season 3-0?
The Buccaneers last started 3-0 in the 2005 season. That year, they went on to make the playoffs, a trend that has followed every previous 3-0 start in franchise history.
How did the Buccaneers win against the New York Jets in Week 3?
Tampa Bay won 29-27 thanks to a late fourth-quarter drive led by Baker Mayfield. The drive set up kicker Chase McLaughlin for a game-winning 36-yard field goal as time expired.
What other milestone did the Buccaneers set with their 3-0 start?
According to the team, Tampa Bay became the first team in NFL history to win its first three games of a season with go-ahead scores in the final minute of regulation.
How has Baker Mayfield performed this season?
Through three games, Mayfield has thrown six touchdown passes with no interceptions. He has also posted a passer rating over 100 and added key rushing yards, showcasing both efficiency and leadership.
