Posted on Nov 14

Bucs face Bills without Irving, Godwin, and Evans, Mayfield expresses performance concerns

Posted Nov 14, 2025

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face mounting challenges as they prepare to meet the Buffalo Bills, with key injuries significantly impacting their lineup.

Why it matters: The Buccaneers currently lead the NFC South, but their recent performance has raised concerns about their ability to maintain that position amidst a series of critical injuries.

Having lost two of their last three games, the Bucs are entering a pivotal stretch that could define their season.
With upcoming opponents like the Bills, who have one of the NFL's worst run defenses, the timing of these injuries could affect their offensive strategy.

What's new: Running back Bucky Irving will miss his sixth consecutive game due to foot and shoulder ailments, while receiver Chris Godwin Jr. is sidelined with a fibula injury sustained earlier this month.

Irving's absence has been particularly impactful; head coach Todd Bowles emphasized that he brings a unique skill set that differentiates him from the other running backs on the roster.
Godwin’s injury further complicates the receiving corps, which is also dealing with Mike Evans being out for most of the remaining season due to a broken collarbone.

What to watch: As the Buccaneers adjust to these injuries, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker are expected to step up in the backfield against a vulnerable Bills defense.

Last weekend, Tampa Bay averaged an impressive 5.4 yards per carry, suggesting they can still find success on the ground despite missing key players.
Tucker notably contributed 53 rushing yards, indicating he could be a valuable asset moving forward.

Yes, but: Despite optimism regarding the remaining players, quarterback Baker Mayfield has expressed concerns about the overall team performance amid these injuries.

Mayfield stated, "When you're one of the captains of the team, you know what it looks like," highlighting his awareness of the team's struggles and the need for leadership during tough times.
The quarterback's insight reflects a broader issue: whether the Buccaneers can rally and execute effectively under pressure.

Between the lines: Coach Todd Bowles reiterated the importance of player health, emphasizing the need for key contributors to return at full strength.

“We want those guys to take their time and come back the right way, not rush things,” Bowles remarked, indicating a cautious approach to recovery.
This philosophy could impact the team's immediate performance if they risk rushing injured players back into action.

The bottom line: The Buccaneers are at a crossroads, balancing necessary caution with the urgency of winning crucial games as they navigate a challenging stretch without several core players.

With their next game against the Bills looming, the outcome will shed light on whether Tampa Bay can overcome adversity and solidify its standing in the NFC South.

Bucs face Bills without Irving, Godwin, and Evans, Mayfield expresses performance concerns

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 14, 2025

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face mounting challenges as they prepare to meet the Buffalo Bills, with key injuries significantly impacting their lineup.

Why it matters: The Buccaneers currently lead the NFC South, but their recent performance has raised concerns about their ability to maintain that position amidst a series of critical injuries.

Having lost two of their last three games, the Bucs are entering a pivotal stretch that could define their season.

With upcoming opponents like the Bills, who have one of the NFL's worst run defenses, the timing of these injuries could affect their offensive strategy.

Irving's absence has been particularly impactful; head coach Todd Bowles emphasized that he brings a unique skill set that differentiates him from the other running backs on the roster.

Godwin’s injury further complicates the receiving corps, which is also dealing with Mike Evans being out for most of the remaining season due to a broken collarbone.

What to watch: As the Buccaneers adjust to these injuries, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker are expected to step up in the backfield against a vulnerable Bills defense.

Last weekend, Tampa Bay averaged an impressive 5.4 yards per carry, suggesting they can still find success on the ground despite missing key players.

Tucker notably contributed 53 rushing yards, indicating he could be a valuable asset moving forward.

Yes, but: Despite optimism regarding the remaining players, quarterback Baker Mayfield has expressed concerns about the overall team performance amid these injuries.

Mayfield stated, "When you're one of the captains of the team, you know what it looks like," highlighting his awareness of the team's struggles and the need for leadership during tough times.

The quarterback's insight reflects a broader issue: whether the Buccaneers can rally and execute effectively under pressure.

Between the lines: Coach Todd Bowles reiterated the importance of player health, emphasizing the need for key contributors to return at full strength.

“We want those guys to take their time and come back the right way, not rush things,” Bowles remarked, indicating a cautious approach to recovery.

This philosophy could impact the team's immediate performance if they risk rushing injured players back into action.

The bottom line: The Buccaneers are at a crossroads, balancing necessary caution with the urgency of winning crucial games as they navigate a challenging stretch without several core players.

With their next game against the Bills looming, the outcome will shed light on whether Tampa Bay can overcome adversity and solidify its standing in the NFC South.