Coming into Week 14, the matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Las Vegas Raiders was one both sides had circled on their calendars. The game carried additional weight due to the history between Coach Casper Ghost and Coach Codes, who had previously faced off during their days in college football. That added layer of competition made Tampa Bay’s 37-29 victory all the more satisfying. This win boosted the Buccaneers’ record to 10-3, keeping them in the hunt for the NFC South title while clinging to the #2 seed in the NFC playoff race.
Balanced Buccaneers Offense: Ground Game Leads the Charge
In the absence of suspended running back Rachaad White, it took a true committee approach from Tampa Bay’s running backs to make up the difference. Brian Irving led the way with 37 yards on 12 carries, contributing two crucial touchdowns, while Leonard Fournette and D’Onta Foreman stepped up as well. Fournette added another 46 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries, showing the kind of veteran leadership the team needed in a pivotal game. Foreman was also effective, posting 60 yards on 10 carries. The Buccaneers totaled 145 rushing yards, which was crucial in keeping the Raiders’ defense on its heels.
Though the passing attack took a backseat to the ground game, rookie quarterback Jordan Travis continued his development with a 13-of-21 passing performance for 163 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. While the stat line wasn’t perfect, Travis managed the game better than he had in previous weeks, showing maturity after his earlier struggles. His mobility also played a key role in extending plays, though he only rushed once for -4 yards in this game. The highlight of the passing game was Devin Culp, who once again led the receiving corps with 4 receptions for 103 yards and a 33-yard touchdown that helped swing momentum back in Tampa Bay’s favor.
Despite the turnovers, Travis’ growth as a starter was evident, as he bounced back from those mistakes with key completions that kept the offense moving. He distributed the ball effectively to a host of targets, including Chris Godwin (2 receptions for 18 yards) and Donovan Peoples-Jones (2 receptions for 21 yards). The offense, while far from flawless, demonstrated versatility, with multiple players contributing to the victory.
Defensive Standouts: Key Stops and Timely Plays
On the defensive side of the ball, Tampa Bay’s unit was tasked with slowing down Raiders quarterback Max Duggan, who finished with 237 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. The Buccaneers’ secondary rose to the occasion, with veteran safety Jordan Whitehead and safety Tykee Smith each picking off Duggan at critical moments. Smith’s interception came late in the game and was returned for a touchdown, sealing the victory and delivering a game-changing moment that showcased the defense’s ability to make big plays under pressure.
Up front, the Buccaneers were able to generate pressure, with Yaya Diaby (1.5 sacks) and Calijah Kancey (0.5 sacks) helping to disrupt Duggan’s rhythm. While the Buccaneers didn’t record a large number of sacks, they consistently pressured Duggan and forced hurried throws, keeping the Raiders’ offense from ever finding a true rhythm. Tampa Bay also did a solid job of containing the Raiders’ ground game, limiting Israel Abanikanda to just 61 yards on 11 carries, despite allowing some bigger runs from Duggan himself.
Despite Las Vegas’ seven trips to the red zone, the Buccaneers’ defense stiffened at crucial moments, allowing only 2 touchdowns and forcing 3 field goals. This bend-but-don’t-break approach paid dividends, as the defense was able to get key stops when necessary.
Special Teams Contributions
Special teams also played a quiet but important role in the Buccaneers’ victory. Kicker Chase McLaughlin was reliable, hitting his lone field goal attempt from 38 yards and converting all four of his extra points. On the punting side, Jake Camarda pinned the Raiders inside their 20-yard line on his only punt of the game, giving the defense favorable field position. While special teams didn’t provide the flashiest moments of the game, their consistency helped Tampa Bay maintain control.
Division Implications: Every Win Counts
This victory was significant beyond just the personal rivalry between Coach Casper Ghost and Coach Codes. Every win is critical with the Bucs locked in a tight NFC South race, and this one was no different. With the New Orleans Saints nipping at their heels, Tampa Bay needed this win to stay in contention for the NFC South crown and to solidify their standing as the #2 seed in the NFC playoff picture. The Saints, who have been on a tear lately, are making it a two-team race for the division title, and Tampa Bay can’t afford any slip-ups down the stretch.
After struggling in previous weeks without Baker Mayfield and Rachaad White, the Buccaneers were able to lean on their depth in this game. Jordan Travis performed much better in this outing, showcasing growth despite his three interceptions, while the running back committee of Irving, Fournette, and Foreman stepped up admirably to fill the void left by White. Devin Culp continued to be a reliable playmaker, and the defense, led by timely interceptions and red-zone stops, did enough to secure the win.
Looking Forward
With the win over the Raiders, the Buccaneers improved to 10-3 and kept pace in the NFC playoff race. However, the road ahead doesn’t get any easier, as Tampa Bay will face some stiff competition down the stretch. The key for the Buccaneers will be continuing to improve their offensive execution and reducing turnovers, especially with the playoffs looming. For now, though, this victory against a well-coached Raiders team will give them momentum heading into the final weeks of the season.
Coach Casper Ghost emphasized that while this win was important, there’s still work to be done: “It was a great effort by the guys today. Anytime you beat a team with a coach like Codes, it’s something special. But we know we’ve got bigger goals, and this is just one step toward achieving them. We’re still fighting for that division title, and we’ve got to keep improving every week if we want to hold onto that #2 seed.”
Tampa Bay will need to stay sharp in the final weeks as they look to hold off the surging Saints and secure their place in the postseason. The Bucs showed they can win tough games, but the true test will come in how they handle the remaining challenges on their schedule.
