Buccaneers Dominate Second Half, Defeat Chargers 40-17
Baker Mayfield threw for 288 yards and four touchdown passes, Mike Evans had a season-high 159 receiving yards and two scores, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers dominated the second half en route to a 40-17 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.
Buccaneers Take Control in Second Half
The NFC South-leading Buccaneers (8-6) trailed 17-10 late in the second quarter before scoring on five straight drives. Evans had a 57-yard TD catch with 10:23 remaining in the third quarter to give Tampa Bay a 20-17 lead. The veteran wide receiver then hauled in a 35-yard pass late in the quarter to extend the lead to 30-17.
Mayfield’s Career Day
Mayfield completed 22 of 27 passes and has a career-high 32 touchdowns on the season. It is the first time in his seven-year career he has eclipsed 30. Mayfield’s performance was a triumphant return to the Hollywood Park stadium where he experienced a career resurrection with the Rams in 2022.
Evans’ Strong Performance
Evans had nine receptions and 159 receiving yards, his 14th game with at least 150 receiving yards, second most among active players. Miami’s Tyreek Hill leads with 16.
Buccaneers’ Dominant Performance
Tampa Bay surpassed 400 yards of total offense and at least 150 rushing yards for the fourth straight game. The Buccaneers did not punt in 10 possessions and outgained the Chargers 506-206, including a 223-32 edge in rushing yards.
Chargers Struggle
Los Angeles (8-6) remains in a playoff spot, but has dropped three of four. Justin Herbert completed 21 of 33 passes for 195 yards and two touchdowns. He was picked off for the first time since Week 2 in the third quarter, snapping a streak of 357 attempts without a pick.
Conclusion
The Buccaneers’ dominant performance in the second half propelled them to a 40-17 victory over the Chargers. Mayfield’s career day and Evans’ strong performance were key to the Bucs’ success.
FAQs
Q: How many touchdown passes did Baker Mayfield throw?
A: Mayfield threw four touchdown passes.
Q: How many receiving yards did Mike Evans have?
A: Evans had 159 receiving yards.
Q: How many games has Mike Evans had with at least 150 receiving yards?
A: Evans has had 14 games with at least 150 receiving yards, second most among active players.
Q: What is Baker Mayfield’s career-high in touchdowns?
A: Mayfield’s career-high is 32 touchdowns on the season.
