Baker Mayfield, quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, expressed frustration with the officiating decisions during Monday’s game against the Detroit Lions, which saw the Lions secure a 24-3 victory. Mayfield highlighted his confusion over the double review process and the omission of a defensive holding call, suggesting that these calls affected the game’s flow. The controversy surrounding the game’s officiating became a focal point, with Mayfield expressing his frustration with the outcome of key plays.
The pivotal fourth-down play involving tight end Cade Otton became a point of contention. After a challenge from the Lions, officials initially upheld the ruling that Otton completed the catch and gained the necessary yardage for a first down. However, a referee returned to the video review monitor and ultimately announced that the call on the field had been reversed. This reversal granted the Lions possession and also resulted in the restoration of a timeout, significantly altering the momentum of the game.
An overturned play earlier in the game also sparked outrage. Referees ruled a three-yard pass intended for Otton was intercepted by the Lions. This decision, along with the later reversal, highlighted the contentious nature of the officiating throughout the match. In addition to the officiating controversies, the Buccaneers faced challenges from the Lions’ dominant running game. Jahmyr Gibbs rushed for 136 yards and scored two touchdowns, while running back David Montgomery added 21 yards for the Lions. By contrast, Tampa Bay managed to generate a total of 41 yards on the ground, underscoring the Lions’ superiority on the offensive side.
Star wide receiver Mike Evans left the game on a medical cart and was later diagnosed with a broken clavicle, potentially ending his season. This injury adds to the concerns for the Buccaneers as they prepare for their next matchup against the New Orleans Saints. The game’s outcome was influenced by a combination of officiating decisions and the Lions’ strong performance, making it a challenging loss for the Buccaneers.