The Tampa Bay Buccaneers delivered a dominant 23-3 victory over the New Orleans Saints, showcasing one of their best defensive performances of the season. Anthony Nelson led the charge with two sacks, a forced fumble, and a pick-six that shifted the game’s momentum early. Antoine Winfield Jr. added an interception and a fumble recovery as the Buccaneers defense forced four turnovers and completely dismantled the Saints’ rhythm. Quarterbacks Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough struggled to find consistency under relentless pressure as the Superdome crowd watched Tampa Bay take full control. On the offensive side, Baker Mayfield protected the football and managed the game well, while kicker Chase McLaughlin hit multiple long field goals to extend the Buccaneers’ lead. With the win, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers improved to 5-3 heading into their Week 9 bye, remaining firmly in contention for the NFC South crown. The team will look to build on this strong defensive showing when they return to host the New England Patriots, aiming to keep their momentum rolling through the second half of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a 24-9 loss to the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football, and it was a game dominated by Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs. The rookie running back exploded for 218 total yards and two touchdowns, torching Tampa Bay’s defense from start to finish. Baker Mayfield had one of his worst outings of the 2025 season, completing just 28 of 50 passes for 228 yards with one touchdown and one interception. To make matters worse, wide receiver Mike Evans exited early with a broken collarbone and a concussion — a devastating blow for the Bucs’ offense and playoff hopes. Despite the setback, Tampa Bay still sits at 5-2, but the loss exposed offensive issues and depth concerns that could shape the second half of the season. The defense couldn’t contain Gibbs, the offense faltered on third down, and the absence of Evans will force Todd Bowles and the coaching staff to adjust fast before their crucial divisional matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Fans and analysts alike are asking — can the Bucs bounce back and stay in the NFC playoff race? #GoBucs #TampaBayBuccaneers #NFL #BucsPodcast #BuccaneersVsLions #MikeEvans #BakerMayfield #ToddBowles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dan Holmi breaks down everything Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans need to know heading into Week 7. Baker Mayfield continues to light it up on the field — extending plays, throwing darts, and turning broken downs into highlight reels. After another electric performance, fans at Raymond James Stadium are chanting “MVP,” and Dan digs into what that means for Baker and for the Buccaneers’ bigger goals. Pulling from ESPN’s Jenna Laine and FOX Sports’ latest features, he explains how Mayfield’s leadership and grounded mentality are keeping the team focused on wins over hype. Then the focus shifts to Buccaneers injuries and depth, including updates on Chris Godwin, Bucky Irving, and rookie standout Emeka Egbuka. Dan discusses how the offense might adjust without key playmakers and who needs to rise up — from Rachaad White in the backfield to Cade Otton in short-yardage spots. To close it out, Dan previews the Monday Night Football clash with the Detroit Lions, a prime-time NFC battle that could shape the playoff picture. He breaks down the defensive resurgence led by Jamel Dean and SirVocea Dennis, Todd Bowles’ strategic matchups, and how the Buccaneers can keep momentum rolling. #TampaBayBuccaneers #GoBucs #NFL #BucsReport #BucsMinuteCast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Bucs Minutecast, host Dan Holmi breaks down the latest headlines surrounding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as quarterback Baker Mayfield tempers MVP chatter following the team’s 5-1 start. Despite impressive performances — including a gutsy scramble and a deep touchdown to Tez Johnson — Mayfield remains grounded, stressing it’s still early in the season. Dan analyzes Baker’s leadership, confidence, and how his playmaking is keeping the Buccaneers offense alive even with a depleted lineup. The conversation dives into how Mayfield’s poise and mobility are shaping Tampa Bay’s identity through six weeks of the NFL season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter Week 6 facing a major test against the San Francisco 49ers, and they’ll have to do it short-handed. With wide receivers Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (fibula) both ruled out, the Bucs’ offense will lean heavily on rookie sensation Emeka Egbuka, who’s been on a historic five-game tear to start his NFL career. Baker Mayfield leads a 4-1 Tampa Bay team looking to prove their resilience on the road, while the 49ers are also banged up — quarterback Brock Purdy is out and Mac Jones remains questionable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers sent a message to the entire NFL with their thrilling 38-35 road victory — a true statement win that showcased grit, leadership, and next-man-up mentality. Host Dan Holmi breaks down how the Bucs battled through adversity, overcame defensive struggles, and found a way to close out a game that could have easily slipped away. From clutch late-game execution to renewed confidence under pressure, this episode dives into what that win means for the rest of Tampa Bay’s season. In Segment Two, Dan spotlights rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, who made NFL history with a record-setting performance that has the Bucs faithful buzzing. His breakout moment not only adds a dynamic weapon to the offense but also signals a bright future for Tampa Bay’s young core. In Segment Three, Dan connects the dots — how veteran leadership, rookie energy, and a growing team identity could set the Buccaneers up for a strong playoff push. Tune in for in-depth Bucs talk, locker room vibes, and analysis from Tampa Bay’s trusted voice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buccaneers Report Podcast: Keys to Victory, Bucky Irving Changes, Seahawks Showdown The Week 5 clash between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks brings high drama, with both teams battling for NFC supremacy amidst mounting injuries. The Buccaneers face the difficult task of containing Seattle’s explosive offense, relying on defensive discipline to avoid giving up game-changing splash plays. Tampa Bay’s own injury list looms large, as stars Mike Evans and Bucky Irving are ruled out, forcing new faces like Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin to step up alongside a defense that must pressure Sam Darnold and contain dynamic playmakers. Bucky Irving’s absence is especially pivotal: after delivering strong performances early this season, his injury shifts the load to Rachaad White and speedster Sean Tucker, while rookie Josh Williams could contribute on special teams. For the Buccaneers to prevail, they need creative play-calling, error-free execution, and major contributions in the passing game — essential strategies that keep this match-up at the top of every NFL fan’s radar for this crucial week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are off to a 3-0 start for the first time since 2005 — and every win has come in dramatic, walk-off fashion. In this episode of the Bucs Report Podcast, host Dan Holmi sits down with Bucs insider Greg Auman for an exclusive Q&A breaking down how Tampa Bay has built early-season momentum. From late-game heroics to key defensive plays and special teams resilience, this deep dive looks at what’s fueling the Bucs’ undefeated start. The conversation also covers Jamel Dean’s resurgence, Mike Evans’ injury impact, offensive line concerns, and what this hot start means for Tampa Bay’s playoff outlook. With Greg Auman’s insider perspective and Dan Holmi’s analysis, Bucs fans get the most in-depth breakdown of the team’s 3-0 record, biggest storylines, and where the Buccaneers go from here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are off to another impressive start in the 2025 NFL season, with Baker Mayfield showing poise in clutch moments and leading back-to-back game-winning drives. In this in-depth Q&A, Dan Holmi of The Bucs Report sits down with Steve Versnick to break down the biggest storylines surrounding Tampa Bay’s 2-0 start. From Mayfield’s improved command of the offense to rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka’s explosive debut, this conversation covers how the Bucs are building momentum early in the year and what it means for their playoff outlook. We also dive into the injuries shaping Tampa Bay’s roster, including Tristan Wirfs’ absence on the offensive line and Calijah Kancey’s season-ending setback on defense. Steve discusses how the Buccaneers are adjusting in the trenches, the timeline for Chris Godwin’s return, and whether Chase McLaughlin’s early struggles at kicker could force the front office to explore alternatives. Packed with expert insight, this episode gives Buccaneers fans a closer look at the depth, resilience, and emerging stars driving Tampa Bay forward. Heading to a Bucs game this season?Or maybe the Rays, Lightning — heck, even a concert in Tampa?Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you're getting the best bang for your buck.And right now, SeatGeek is giving Bucs MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50.Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST.That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off.Your seat starts here. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened the season with fireworks, and this episode breaks it all down in detail. Rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka stole the show with two touchdowns in his NFL debut, including the clutch game-winner in the final minute. We dig into how his Ohio State pedigree, route running, and mental toughness translated instantly to the pros, and what it means for the Bucs offense moving forward. With Chris Godwin still rehabbing and Jalen McMillan sidelined, Egbuka’s emergence is more than just a feel-good story — it’s a glimpse at how Tampa Bay’s depth can keep the offense rolling. But it wasn’t just about the rookie. We dive deep into the offensive line adjustments after Tristan Wirfs’ absence, how Graham Barton, Ben Bredeson, and Michael Jordan reshuffled into new roles, and how Baker Mayfield managed the game under pressure. From coaching adjustments to defensive stands, we cover the full picture of Tampa Bay Buccaneers football. Looking ahead, we’ll explore how defenses will adjust to Egbuka, whether the O-line can maintain chemistry, and how Baker can continue building momentum. If you want insider-level analysis on the Bucs’ roster depth, injuries, and evolving strategy, this episode is for you.  SeatGeek – Your Ticket to the Action!Heading to a Bucs game? Rays? Lightning? A concert?SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats at the best price! Get $20 OFF your first ticket purchase over $50Download the SeatGeek app or click the link below: SeatGeek LinkUse promo code: MINUTECASTYour seat starts here.http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened the 2025 season with a dramatic comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons, highlighted by rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka’s electric debut. Egbuka caught two touchdowns, including the game-winner in the final minute, instantly proving he’s ready to become a major weapon in the Buccaneers’ offense. Quarterback Baker Mayfield praised Egbuka as “the real deal,” and teammates echoed the sentiment, calling him polished, versatile, and clutch. With injuries to Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan, the Bucs needed someone to step up, and Egbuka delivered in historic fashion, becoming just the second rookie in franchise history to score multiple touchdowns in a Week 1 game. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers overcame the absence of star left tackle Tristan Wirfs, who began the season sidelined after knee surgery. The offensive line reshuffled with Graham Barton moving from center to left tackle, Ben Bredeson sliding into center, and veteran Michael Jordan filling in at guard. Despite the “emergency” look, the unit held together well enough to keep Mayfield upright and fuel the late-game heroics. The Bucs’ adaptability up front, combined with Egbuka’s breakout performance, gave Tampa Bay a thrilling start to their 50th anniversary season and set the tone for what could be another NFC South title chase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers kick off their 2025 NFL season with a divisional clash against the Atlanta Falcons, aiming for a historic fifth straight NFC South title. With Baker Mayfield coming off a career-best season and first-round pick Emeka Egbuka stepping into a starting role, the Buccaneers’ offense remains one of the most dangerous in the league. However, injuries to Chris Godwin, Jalen McMillan, and Tristan Wirfs mean Tampa Bay’s depth will be tested immediately against a Falcons squad led by young quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Defensively, the Buccaneers are looking to unleash newcomer Haason Reddick to boost their edge rush and pressure Penix, while veterans like Vita Vea and Lavonte David anchor the unit. Special teams strategy also shifts with new kickoff rules, putting more emphasis on field position. With key roster updates, depth chart surprises, and Luke Goedeke’s massive extension, Tampa Bay enters Week One ready to prove they are still the team to beat in the NFC South. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback room just took a major turn. After re-signing Kyle Trask to a one-year deal this offseason, the team is releasing him with an injury settlement following a preseason shoulder injury. With Trask out, Teddy Bridgewater slides into the QB2 role behind Baker Mayfield, and rookie Connor Bazelak could stick on the practice squad. On this episode of The Bucs Report Podcast, host Dan Holmi welcomes Louie Leitao of the Frozen Pirate Podcast to break down what Trask’s departure means for Tampa Bay, Bridgewater’s fit as the backup, and how the Bucs may approach their QB future. The conversation also covers the Buccaneers waiving Shilo Sanders after his preseason ejection, plus full preseason takeaways including Tez Johnson’s breakout, depth concerns on the offensive line, and the battle for roster spots. Finally, Dan and Louie look ahead to Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons — with Baker Mayfield leading the offense, Tristan Wirfs’ health in question, and the Bucs labeled as a potential dark horse contender in the NFC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers preseason has plenty of storylines. Teddy Bridgewater looked sharp against the Steelers, strengthening his case as Baker Mayfield’s backup, while rookie Emeka Egbuka flashed with his first touchdown grab. But the night also brought a major setback, as wide receiver Jalen McMillan suffered a severe neck sprain that could sideline him for up to eight weeks. With Chris Godwin still not fully healthy, the Buccaneers’ receiver depth will be tested heading into Week 1. On defense, injuries continue to pile up in the secondary, forcing the Bucs to sign veteran corner Tre Avery for depth. Meanwhile, Tristan Wirfs returned to practice, and Godwin is trending in the right direction. With roster cuts looming, the final preseason game against the Buffalo Bills will be all about bubble players — especially at cornerback, wide receiver, and along the offensive line. For Tampa Bay, these last roster decisions could shape the team’s early-season outlook.  ASPIRE® Healthy Energy – Exclusive Listener Discount!Fuel your day the healthy way with ASPIRE® Healthy Energy: 80mg natural caffeine from green tea Zero sugar, zero calories, no crash Amazing flavors like Mango Lemonade & Raspberry Acai Get 20% OFF your order with our link: shop.aspiredrinks.com/discount/MINUTECAST--- SeatGeek – Your Ticket to the Action!Heading to a Bucs game? Rays? Lightning? A concert?SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats at the best price! Get $20 OFF your first ticket purchase over $50Download the SeatGeek app or click the link below: SeatGeek LinkUse promo code: MINUTECASTYour seat starts here.http://www.seatgeek.com--- Righteous Felon Craft Jerky – Snack Smarter!Looking for a high-protein, keto-friendly snack?Try Righteous Felon Craft Jerky — premium Black Angus beef, hormone & antibiotic-free, with flavors like O.G. Hickory! Get 15% OFF your order using promo code MINUTECAST: righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECASTSnack smart. Stay fueled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a major setback when second-year wide receiver Jalen McMillan went down with a severe neck sprain in Saturday’s preseason game against the Steelers. McMillan, who broke out late last season with eight touchdowns and quickly became one of Baker Mayfield’s go-to targets, is expected to miss up to eight games. While the injury isn’t considered career-threatening, it leaves the Bucs shorthanded with Chris Godwin already sidelined on the PUP list. Now, the pressure falls on Tampa Bay’s depth chart. Mike Evans remains the cornerstone, rookie Emeka Egbuka is flashing big-play ability, and veteran Sterling Shepard has emerged as a reliable option after a strong camp. Add in rookie Tez Johnson and a handful of young contributors, and the Buccaneers will need several receivers to step up to keep the offense rolling until McMillan and Godwin return. 🔥 ASPIRE® Healthy Energy – Exclusive Listener Discount! Fuel your day the healthy way with ASPIRE® Healthy Energy: ✔ 80mg natural caffeine from green tea ✔ Zero sugar, zero calories, no crash ✔ Amazing flavors like Mango Lemonade & Raspberry Acai 🎯 Get 20% OFF your order with our link: 👉 shop.aspiredrinks.com/discount/MINUTECAST --- 🎟 SeatGeek – Your Ticket to the Action! Heading to a Bucs game? Rays? Lightning? A concert? SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats at the best price! 🎯 Get $20 OFF your first ticket purchase over $50 Download the SeatGeek app or click the link below: 👉 SeatGeek Link Use promo code: MINUTECAST Your seat starts here. http://www.seatgeek.com --- 🥩 Righteous Felon Craft Jerky – Snack Smarter! Looking for a high-protein, keto-friendly snack? Try Righteous Felon Craft Jerky — premium Black Angus beef, hormone & antibiotic-free, with flavors like O.G. Hickory! 🎯 Get 15% OFF your order using promo code MINUTECAST: 👉 righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Snack smart. Stay fueled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers picked up a 17-14 preseason win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the story of the night was veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Less than two weeks after signing with Tampa Bay, Bridgewater showed he can still sling it, throwing a pair of touchdown passes in the first quarter, including a beautiful lob to rookie first-round pick Emeka Egbuka. With Baker Mayfield locked in as the starter, Bridgewater’s strong performance put real pressure on Kyle Trask in the battle for the backup quarterback job. Meanwhile, linebacker Antonio Grier added to the Bucs’ opportunistic defense with a 36-yard interception return, setting up Chase McLaughlin’s game-winning field goal as time expired. But it wasn’t all good news for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as injuries once again became a major storyline. Wide receiver Jalen McMillan exited with a back injury and a concussion evaluation, while versatile defensive back Christian Izien left with an oblique issue. With Antoine Winfield Jr. and Benjamin Morrison already sidelined and rookie J.J. Roberts lost for the season, Tampa Bay’s secondary depth is being tested before Week 1. Still, Bridgewater’s performance and Egbuka’s early flashes give the Buccaneers plenty to be excited about heading into their preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills. 🔥 ASPIRE® Healthy Energy – Exclusive Listener Discount! Fuel your day the healthy way with ASPIRE® Healthy Energy: ✔ 80mg natural caffeine from green tea ✔ Zero sugar, zero calories, no crash ✔ Amazing flavors like Mango Lemonade & Raspberry Acai 🎯 Get 20% OFF your order with our link: 👉 shop.aspiredrinks.com/discount/MINUTECAST --- 🎟 SeatGeek – Your Ticket to the Action! Heading to a Bucs game? Rays? Lightning? A concert? SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats at the best price! 🎯 Get $20 OFF your first ticket purchase over $50 Download the SeatGeek app or click the link below: 👉 SeatGeek Link Use promo code: MINUTECAST Your seat starts here. --- 🥩 Righteous Felon Craft Jerky – Snack Smarter! Looking for a high-protein, keto-friendly snack? Try Righteous Felon Craft Jerky — premium Black Angus beef, hormone & antibiotic-free, with flavors like O.G. Hickory! 🎯 Get 15% OFF your order using promo code MINUTECAST: 👉 righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Snack smart. Stay fueled. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are managing some key preseason storylines. All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. is dealing with minor hamstring tightness, but the team is taking no risks to ensure he’s ready for the regular season. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is trending toward seeing preseason action after building chemistry in practice, though head coach Todd Bowles will decide after joint work with the Steelers. In the running back room, Rachaad White is sidelined day-to-day with a groin issue, while Owen Wright has returned from soreness. Meanwhile, Sports Illustrated has flipped the script from past doubts, projecting a 12-5 finish, NFC South crown, and even the NFC’s No. 1 seed for Tampa Bay, citing depth and a favorable schedule. Baker Mayfield is also gaining national respect, landing in Tier 2 and ranked 11th in The Athletic’s annual QB survey — the best of his career. Coaches and executives praise his evolution from a “wild man” into a disciplined playmaker who thrives in multiple systems. Thursday’s joint practice with the Steelers showcased sharp execution, with Mayfield leading strong two-point drills and a two-minute touchdown drive to Mike Evans, while the defense closed with a stop. The momentum is building toward Week 1. Heading to a Bucs game this season? Or maybe the Rays, Lightning — heck, even a concert in Tampa? Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck. Right now, SeatGeek is giving Bucs MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50. Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST. That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off. Your seat starts here. 👉 https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, high-protein snack, look no further than Righteous Felon! This family-owned brand is all about premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef — hormone and antibiotic-free. With mouth-watering flavors like O.G. Hickory and 10 grams of protein per serving, you’ll get the boost you need for all your podcast adventures! They have keto-friendly and gluten-free options, and they support sustainability with the Conservation Alliance. Ready to snack smarter? Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off your order! Head over to https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and grab your new favorite snack today! 🌟 ASPIRE® Healthy Energy – Exclusive Listener Discount! Bucs fans, fuel your day the healthy way with ASPIRE® Healthy Energy—80mg of natural caffeine from green tea, zero sugar, zero calories, and no crash. Delicious flavors like Mango Lemonade, Raspberry Acai, and more! Get 20% off your entire order with my exclusive link: shop.aspiredrinks.com/discount/MINUTECAST. Clean energy that works as hard as you do. Try it today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened their 2025 preseason with a convincing 29-7 win over the Tennessee Titans, showing strong performances across the board despite missing most starters. Kyle Trask delivered a solid outing, connecting often with standout receiver Ryan Miller, who made highlight-reel catches and boosted his case for a roster spot. Sean Tucker impressed with explosive, physical runs behind a surprisingly dominant backup offensive line that kept quarterbacks clean all night. Rookies like Emeka Egbuka, Jacob Parrish, and undrafted linebacker Nick Jackson also flashed playmaking ability, while punter Riley Dixon contributed with two strong punts, one pinning the Titans inside the 10.The only major concern came with running back Rachaad White leaving the game early due to a groin injury. Head coach Todd Bowles said tests will determine the severity, noting that groin injuries can vary from a quick recovery to a multi-week absence. In the meantime, Tucker appears ready to step into a bigger role, with Bowles praising his vision, contact balance, and breakaway speed. With the backups passing their first big test and Trask solidifying himself as QB2, the Bucs will now look ahead while monitoring White’s health closely.Heading to a Bucs game this season?Or maybe the Rays, Lightning — heck, even a concert in Tampa?Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you're getting the best bang for your buck.And right now, SeatGeek is giving Bucs MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50.Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST.That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off.Your seat starts here.SeatGeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers open their preseason against the Tennessee Titans without Baker Mayfield or newly signed backup Teddy Bridgewater taking the field. That means quarterback Kyle Trask gets the start — and perhaps his most important audition yet. With Bridgewater’s veteran résumé looming in the background, Trask must prove he can lock down the No. 2 quarterback role in a game where all eyes will be on him.But the QB battle isn’t the only storyline. Tampa Bay has heated competitions at wide receiver, defensive back, and along the defensive line. From Sterling Shepard’s veteran push to rookie safety Shilo Sanders making a case for a roster spot, the opener could shape the depth chart. This is the game where fringe players can make — or break — their Buccaneers future.Heading to a Bucs game this season?Or maybe the Rays, Lightning — heck, even a concert in Tampa?Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you're getting the best bang for your buck.And right now, SeatGeek is giving Bucs MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50.Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST.That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off.Your seat starts here.SeatGeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers head into the 2025 NFL season with a mix of optimism and caution. While Baker Mayfield is coming off a career year and the offense returns all 11 starters, a major blow hit just before training camp: All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs is set to miss at least four games after undergoing knee surgery. That absence looms large for an offense that excelled in quick passes and yards after catch (YAC) in 2024 but now wants to push the ball downfield under new play-caller Josh Grizzard. The challenge? Grizzard has never called plays in the NFL, and Mayfield must adjust without his best protector in a brutal early-season slate that includes road trips to Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Buffalo. Defensively, the Bucs retooled a unit that struggled with pressure last season by adding depth at linebacker and in the secondary—but opted against drafting a marquee edge rusher. If the front seven can jell by midseason, Todd Bowles’ aggressive blitz scheme could reignite. In a weakened NFC South, Tampa Bay still looks like the frontrunner, but the margin for error is razor-thin. Health, rookie contributions, and Bowles’ in-game management will determine whether the Bucs secure a fifth straight division crown or watch the playoff window start to close.DAN ON TWITTERBUCS MINUTECAST ON TWITTER Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices