Have Tampa Bay and Baker Reached Their Ceiling?

Jan 12, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) greets Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) after winning a NFC wild card playoff at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers present one of the more intriguing situations in the NFL right now. With Todd Bowles at the helm, they’ve consistently dominated the NFC South, clinching the division title three years running. However, their playoff record under Bowles is less sparkly at 1-3, having exited in the wild-card round twice. It’s a mix of dominance and disappointment that leaves fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.

Take Sunday’s nail-biter against the Commanders, for instance. It was a game that teetered on the edge and could have swung in the Buccaneers’ favor if Zane Gonzalez’s kick had found a kinder fate, rather than clanging off the crossbar. These small margins remind us how unpredictable football can be, where one play can change the narrative.

Under center, Baker Mayfield stands tall as one of the top quarterbacks in the conference, bringing his signature blend of flair and resilience. In the backfield, Bucky Irving is emerging as a force to be reckoned with, promising to be the next big thing in the NFL’s running back gallery. On the receiving end, fans have all the reasons to be excited with Chris Godwin’s imminent return alongside stalwarts Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan, creating a formidable wide receiver trio.

Despite the playoff struggles, the Buccaneers have a roster brimming with talent and potential, hinting at the possibility of a profound playoff run. This makes pinpointing their ceiling a tricky exercise, prompting perhaps a wait-and-see approach for the time being. One thing is clear: this team isn’t just here to compete—they’re gunning for glory.

Shifting gears to another NFC powerhouse, the Philadelphia Eagles. Many believe their defense will be the cornerstone of any potential Super Bowl triumph. The Eagles have crafted a unit that is both tenacious and strategic, ready to stifle the highest caliber of offenses. With such a formidable defense in their arsenal, the Eagles are poised to be a force in the postseason, paving their path to the ultimate prize.