Buccaneers Regain Control of Playoff Destiny After Falcons' Loss

Tampa Bay can clinch its fourth straight NFC South title with a win or tie against the Saints this Sunday.

The Buccaneers (9-7) reclaimed the NFC South lead after the Falcons (8-8) lost to the Commanders in overtime, putting Tampa Bay in control of its playoff fate.
A win or tie against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday will secure the Bucs' fourth consecutive division title; an Atlanta loss or tie would also clinch it for Tampa Bay.
Baker Mayfield delivered a standout performance in the Bucs' 48-14 victory over Carolina, throwing for 359 yards and five touchdowns, while Bucky Irving surpassed 1,000 rushing yards for the season.
Mike Evans is just 85 receiving yards away from tying Jerry Rice's record of 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, despite missing time due to injury.
The Bucs face questions about injuries to key defensive players, including Jamel Dean and Antoine Winfield Jr., while former Pro Bowler Shaquil Barrett could return to action after re-signing with the team.