Say what you want about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but this group, led by Baker Mayfield, just continues to stack wins, regardless of the growing injury list.
The 23-3 win over the New Orleans Saints was a defensive masterpiece, with Todd Bowles' unit grabbing two interceptions, forcing two fumbles, and making life hell for Spence Rattler and Tyler Shough.
The win now moves Tampa Bay to 6-2 on the season, with the bye week coming at the perfect time, as the Buccaneers' injury list grows by the day.
And Baker knows what type of locker room he has in Tampa.
“Resilient group,” Mayfield said. “To be at six and two with all the guys we've had down, all the guys that have had to step up and get thrown in the fire there. That's awesome to be able to see, bye week's much needed for this group. We'll always take the wins, don't get me wrong about that, but offensively, that wasn't nearly good enough, or close to what we wanted to look like.
"Defense and special teams played absolutely outstanding, and it was really fun to watch on their part.”
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Buccaneers take big step in division with Saints win
With the Carolina Panthers getting blown off the field 40-9 by the Buffalo Bills and Tampa Bay taking care of the Saints, Bowles' team has now opened up a nice little buffer at the summit of the NFC South.
Granted, we know how quickly things can change in football, but with all of the injuries, to still be winning and at 6-2, that will give confidence that once the reinforcements arrive, then this Buccaneers team will be all gas, no brakes as they approach the playoffs.
Last season, the bye week saved Tampa Bay's season, and it might do so again here with Bucky Irving and Chris Godwin potentially in line to return in Week 10 against the New England Patriots.
Tampa Bay has been as resilient as any team in football, and now gets a deserved rest before attacking the second half of the season.
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