"Alright everyone, gather 'round. Listen, there's no way to sugarcoat this: Week 11 did not go our way. Our guys fought their butts off in Buffalo but didn't come away with the dub. Some of us were even there – road trip! – and holy cow was it cold. Enough of that – give us Florida football any day of the week.
"Meanwhile, the rest of the NFC was not cooperating with our plans. We put our faith in the Falcons and you see where that got us. The Eagles won. The Rams won. Our old buddy Jameis had a shot to take down the Packers but that dream ended with a pick. We're still in first place in the NFC South and we're still in the fourth spot in the conference standings, just like we were heading into the week, but the margins are getting thinner.
"But, like we always hear Bucs players say, we can't ride the roller coaster. We can't get too high with the wins or too low with the losses. We had Monday to think about this one; Cousin Steve over there even 'crunched the tape' (his words) because he thinks he's a quality control coach or something. Then we put it behind us. It's on to Week 12. Learn from our losses and move on.
"And what a Week 12 it is shaping up to be! Our guys are on the prime time stage on Sunday night, and we're all going to get together for a viewing party. We'll be busy whipping up dips and ordering wings on Sunday afternoon. Carl said he would make his famous chili. It's going to be awesome. Nothing to compete with Buccaneers football on Sunday night. All eyes on us!
"That being said, there is going to be plenty of football on the TV set on Sunday before the Bucs play, and we might as well monitor it while we get ready for our shindig. The Vikings are playing the Packers. The Eagles are going to Dallas. And on Monday night those pesky Panthers are in San Fran. We need to be focused in our rooting interests. What are the best possible outcomes for our beloved Bucs? Let's figure this out before the games start.
"Alright, good talk. Bucs on three. One, two, three BUCS!"
This is your 2025 Week 12 Viewing Guide.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, November 16th, 2025 at Orchard Park.
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Guard Mike Jordan #60, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Lineman Greg Gaines #96 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers intercepts a pass during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a turnover during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 and Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a turnover during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a turnover during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2, Tight End Payne Durham #87, Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15, and Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Offensive Tackle Charlie Heck #77 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Benjamin Morrison #21 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 and Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Guard Dan Feeney #65 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tight End Devin Culp #82 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Linebacker Nick Jackson #53 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Guard Mike Jordan #60, Guard Luke Haggard #72, Offensive Tackle Benjamin Chukwuma #70, and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31, Guard Luke Goedeke #67, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 and Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50, Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31, Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 and Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 and Cornerback Benjamin Morrison #21 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 and Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78, Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 and Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Guard Luke Goedeke #67, Guard Dan Feeney #65, Running Back Rachaad White #1, Center Graham Barton #62, Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Guard Mike Jordan #60 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 and Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Linebacker John Bullock #57 and Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Linebacker John Bullock #57 and Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Linebacker John Bullock #57, Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98, Tight End Payne Durham #87, Linebacker Nick Jackson #53 and Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Mohamed Kamara #59, Defensive Back Josh Hayes #32, Cornerback Benjamin Morrison #21, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 and Cornerback Kindle Vildor #22 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Center Graham Barton #62 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Guard Mike Jordan #60 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 and Running Back Owen Wright #49 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
ORCHARD PARK, NY - November 16, 2025 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills. The Bucs lost the game, 44-32. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Buffalo Bills (7-3) at Houston Texans (5-5), Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET
The Texans have a pretty darn good defense, so this one could actually be interesting. That said, it obviously doesn't matter much to the Bucs. If you want any reason to take a side, Tampa Bay beat Houston and lost to Buffalo, so a Texans win would pump up the Bucs' strength-of-victory number, which might come into play in a potential tiebreaker. I wouldn't worry about that too much, though.
Verdict: Go Texans!
Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4) at Chicago Bears (7-3), Sunday, 1:00 a.m. ET
What the heck just happened in the NFC North?! We've been rooting for the Bears in recent weeks, and now all of a sudden they're in first place. Crazy. Anyway, this one isn't difficult because they're playing an AFC team, and maybe their "owner" in Aaron Rodgers, if his messed-up left wrist allows. If Rodgers can't play, it will be Mason Rudolph at the Steelers' helm, and this game will instantly become about 75% less interesting. Rodgers reportedly will try to practice on Thursday.
Verdict: Go A-A-Ron's wrist!
New York Jets (2-8) at Baltimore Ravens (5-5), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
New England Patriots (9-2) at Cincinnati Bengals (3-7), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
Indianapolis Colts (8-2) at Kansas City Chiefs (5-5), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
Here's a trio of all-AFC games, and you know what that means. Entertaining football, perhaps, but not anything for Bucs fans to worry about. That said, Colts at Chiefs is very interesting. Are we still wondering if the Daniel Jones-led Colts are true AFC Super Bowl contenders? Do we still think of the Chiefs as AFC favorites, or at least close to it, despite a .500 record? This game could tell us a lot. It's hard to dispute that an Indianapolis win would put a wildly more interesting spin on the AFC playoff hunt. Put this one on while chopping vegetables for that crudités platter for that Sunday night party.
Verdict: Go Colts!
New York Giants (2-9) at Detroit Lions (6-4), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
It looks like rookie Jaxson Dart is on track to return from his Week 10 concussion to play the Lions, so we won't be pulling for Jameis like it's 2019 all over again. But we will be pulling for Dart and company. Despite a 6-4 record that currently has the Lions outside looking in on the NFC playoff field, it's hard to shake the notion that they remain real Super Bowl contenders. Actually, we would love to be disabused of that idea. One thing the Giants do have going for them is a talented group of pass-rushers. Perhaps they can discombobulate Jared Goff the way their NFC East brethren Eagles did last weekend. You hate to kick a man when he's down, but another Lions loss would be great for the Buccaneers, in case they end up in a Wild Card battle.
Verdict: Bullseye! Go Dart!
Minnesota Vikings (4-6) at Green Bay Packers (6-3-1), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
Jordan Love was sneaky good last week against the Giants, but his receivers kept dropping passes. Are we dismissing the Packers too quickly after their two low-scoring home losses to the Panthers and Eagles and their narrow escape from the Giants. I think so. This team is still only a half-game out of first in the NFC North and gets to play division-leading Chicago twice in the weeks ahead. Meanwhile, Minnesota has a struggling first-year starter at quarterback in J.J. McCarthy and has not looked like a contender recently. That could change, but for now the Packers seem like much more of a threat in the conference.
Verdict: Go J.J.!
Seattle Seahawks (7-3) at Tennessee Titans (1-9), Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
If you recall, we rooted for the Seahawks last week in their NFC West showdown with the Rams, mostly because if there became a seeding issue between division winners in the end, the Bucs' head-to-head win over Seattle would be helpful. So, all things being equal, we'd prefer Seattle to win the West. But it's also possible that the Bucs will have a head-to-head tiebreaker over the Rams after Sunday night. I'm not predicting anything, I'm just saying it's possible. In that case, it wouldn't matter to us who won the West since the Bucs have also beaten the 49ers. So let's wait one more week before jumping back on the Seattle bandwagon. This week, we'll root for an upset by the Titans.
Verdict: Go Titans!
Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4) at Arizona Cardinals (3-7), Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
This one is all about style points. It's an easy pick because it's an AFC team against an NFC team. We're Team Jags all the way this week. Help us out Liam! But more than that, it would be in the Bucs' interest if the Cardinals not only lost but struggled in the process. After the trip to L.A., the Bucs' next game will be at home against Arizona, and we'd prefer to face a team that is not riding high after an upset win. Remember the excellent movie Raising Arizona? That was directed by the Coen brothers. Maybe, one Coen (Mr. Liam) can lower Arizona this week.
Verdict: Go Coens of all stripe!
Cleveland Browns (2-8) at Las Vegas Raiders (2-8), Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
Whatever.
Verdict: Go pick up those wings you ordered.
Philadelphia Eagles (8-2) at Dallas Cowboys (4-5-1), Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
Okay, here's a good one. It's not complicated, really. Maybe in a couple weeks if the Eagles pull away from the pack in the chase for the number-one seed in the NFC, we would root for them to keep Dallas out of the pack of contenders. But at the moment it's too early to give up on the competition for that top seed, so we'll uncomfortably root for the Cowboys to get one over on their division rivals. I mean, it's not like it's a great joy to root for Philly, either.
Verdict: Go 'Boys! (yuck)
Atlanta Falcons (3-7) at New Orleans Saints (2-8), Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
So, Michael Penix is done for the year and now it's Kirk Cousins time. Perhaps you remember what Kirk has done to the Buccaneers at various times in the past, including twice last year. It's maddening. What we want to see here is a Falcons loss in which Cousins doesn't look good, because that Week 15 rematch with Atlanta is looming. It's not terribly likely either of these teams gets back into the playoff hunt, so it may not matter that much which team wins on Sunday. We just can't forget the, "You like that?!" episode.
Verdict: Go Saints!
Carolina Panthers (6-5) at San Francisco 49ers (7-4), Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
The Panthers are breathing down the Bucs' neck right now, and it's not particularly comfortable. It's looking increasingly likely that the pair of head-to-head games between those two teams in Weeks 16 and 18 are going to decide the NFC South this year. Let's hope the Bucs hit Week 16 with as much breathing room as possible in that race. With apologies to the very likable Dave Canales, we are all Panthers haters from here on out.
Verdict: Go Niners!
