The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defense dominated in their 23-3 win over the New Orleans Saints. Quarterback Baker Mayfield praised the unit, which forced four turnovers. But before that, he had a strong message for the offense and the entire locker room, which has been hit hard by injuries.

Mayfield acknowledged the team’s success, saying, “We’ll always take the wins, don’t get me wrong about that,” he said. Speaking of the offense, he said, “But offensively that wasn’t nearly good enough or close to what we want it to look like.”

The offense has struggled in the last two games, averaging just 12.5 points, down from 27.5 points per game over the first six weeks. Injuries have played a big role. Wide receiver Chris Godwin is dealing with a fibula issue, and guard Luke Haggard was ruled out with a shoulder injury.

“That’s awesome to be able to see,” Mayfield told reporters about the Bucs being 6-2 at their bye despite all the injuries. 

Running back Bucky Irving is battling foot and shoulder injuries. Wide receiver Mike Evans was placed on injured reserve with a broken clavicle after briefly returning from another injury. Despite all this, Mayfield praised the offense for staying strong, but reminded everyone that they need to “be better.”

He also called the defense a “resilient group.” That grit showed up in big moments, especially through standout performances on defense.

Outside linebacker Anthony Nelson had an interception, two sacks, and a forced fumble. Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. recovered a fumble and intercepted a pass. He nearly scored a touchdown, but it was called back due to an officiating issue.

The Saints struggled to get anything going on offense and even switched quarterbacks mid-game, but still couldn’t find the end zone.

“Defense and special teams played absolutely outstanding,” Mayfield said. “And it was really fun to watch on their part.” The Bucs’ defense was dominant, but with the offense still finding its rhythm, Mayfield’s leadership will be key moving forward.

Still, while the defense shined, Mayfield’s own stat sheet told a quieter story.

Baker Mayfield ended Week 8 with no touchdowns

The QB missed the opportunity for TDs in the game against the Saints. He completed the game with 15 of 24 for 152 yards, no interceptions, and no touchdowns. This is the third time in his career with the Bucs that he has had a game with no TDs across 45 games.

“Today was Baker Mayfield’s 45th game with the Bucs, including playoffs, and was just his third without a touchdown of any kind — also did so in win over Panthers in 2023 and loss to Lions that same year,” Greg Auman wrote on his X.

Three games without a touchdown is still better than most quarterbacks. But given Mayfield’s near-flawless record, he’ll want to keep that number from growing. He was sacked three times against the Saints, and four times earlier against the Lions.

This brings his sack total to 17 through eight games. On the injury front, Mayfield and the Bucs will get some much-needed rest during their bye week before facing the New England Patriots in Week 10.