The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered Week 10 looking to solidify their grip on the NFC South. Instead, they left Raymond James Stadium reeling from a gut-punch loss to one of the AFC’s hottest teams. The 28-23 defeat to the New England Patriots felt like a microcosm of the Bucs’ recurring issues. They had defensive breakdowns, shaky protection, and inconsistent quarterback play.

Promise turns to peril

The game began with promise. Baker Mayfield tossed three touchdowns and kept Tampa Bay within striking distance. However, the Bucs’ defense unraveled at the worst possible moments. Patriots rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson ripped off touchdown runs of 55 and 69 yards. Meanwhile, quarterback Drake Maye continued his MVP-caliber campaign with timely throws and sharp execution. Tampa Bay

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