Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans is fired up for Monday night's showdown against the Houston Texans because of a devastating loss in 2023.
The Buccaneers fell just short in a 39-37 thriller at Houston's NRG Stadium in November 2023. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud's five touchdown passes and a last-minute scoring drive lifted the Texans to a stunning comeback victory.
On Monday, speaking to reporters, Evans reflected on that defeat, describing it as a "bittersweet moment" and one of the worst losses of his career.
"I thought we had the game won in Houston," Evans said. "I'm seeing all the 13 jerseys. I see my family in the crowd. I'm like about to win this game and then it broke our heart," Evans said. ... "I was pissed. I was hurting. It hurt."
Evans, now in the later stages of his career, said he usually remains composed but admitted the loss still stings.
"Hopefully we can get some payback," he added.
On Monday Night Football, the Texans host Tampa Bay at NRG Stadium at 7 p.m. ET.