Baker Mayfield clearly leads the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and a strong defense also play key roles in their success.
On Sunday, Mayfield threw for 289 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Buccaneers to a 37-20 victory over the newly revamped Washington Commanders. This win overshadowed the debut of Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the draft.
Evans caught two of Mayfield’s touchdown passes, while Godwin and rookie Jalen McMillan each scored once. Despite missing two starters and losing three cornerbacks during the game, Tampa Bay’s defense managed to contain Daniels and the Commanders’ offense.
“We spread the ball around a lot, and many players got involved,” Godwin said, who caught eight passes for 83 yards. “I think we have the potential to be a very strong offense.”
Daniels was more successful with his running than passing.
He scored two rushing touchdowns for Washington, which is looking for a fresh start with him at quarterback, Dan Quinn as coach, and Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt Jr. handling the offense and defense.
“I set high standards for myself. We didn’t win, and I like to win,” Daniels said. “It went okay, but we left some opportunities out there. We need to execute better. It’s a long season, and we’ll keep moving forward.”
Daniels was one of three rookie starting quarterbacks in Week 1, along with Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears and Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos. He became one of the few rookies to start a season opener for Washington since 1967.
“I thought he showed his abilities, including using his legs and being aggressive down the field,” Quinn said. “There’s a lot to learn, but he’s a fierce competitor.”
