TAMPA, Fla. — Three takeaways from the Bucs-Dolphins matchup highlight Baker Mayfield’s readiness and the ongoing competition for Miami’s backup quarterback position.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers set a clear objective in their preseason finale, securing a 24-14 victory over the Miami Dolphins. The Bucs’ offensive starters completed their work after just seven plays, culminating in a 70-yard touchdown drive, while the defense quickly wrapped up their duties after only three snaps.
Coach Todd Bowles emphasized the importance of establishing early continuity. “We came out and tried to establish some continuity early on. That’s what we were really looking for,” he stated. “Communication was crisp and we executed, so it was a good first drive.”
The significance of scoring an opening-drive touchdown cannot be overstated, especially considering the Bucs’ struggle last season, where they went 19 games without one. Baker Mayfield, who had not participated in the first two preseason games, showcased his skills by completing 3-of-3 passes for 54 yards, with a notable 28-yard sideline catch by rookie Jalen McMillan setting up the score.
“Extremely efficient, and obviously, the movement at the line of scrimmage was why,” Mayfield reflected post-game. “Our guys were locked in, exactly what the coaches asked. I think we’re ready to go. Attention to detail, focused on the little things. He asked for us to be really physical and I think everybody was.”
The Buccaneers’ starting defense, which had also seen limited action this preseason, quickly forced a three-and-out against the Dolphins’ backups. While a few key starters, including outside linebackers Yaya Diaby and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, linebacker Lavonte David, and safety Jordan Whitehead, were held out, they are expected to return healthy for the season opener against Washington in 17 days.
“It’s good they were ready to play,” Bowles noted. “They were ready to play longer, they wanted to play longer, but I’d seen enough. We’ve got two weeks to get ready for the first game, but all I wanted to see was continuity.”
Is Skylar Thompson the Dolphins’ top backup?
Most of Miami’s starters, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, rested during the game. However, the competition for the Dolphins’ backup quarterback role intensified as Skylar Thompson added another touchdown pass, finishing the night with 19 completions on 27 attempts for 190 yards and a 99.3 quarterback rating. Miami is likely to carry three quarterbacks on its 53-man roster again this year, but White’s $3.5 million base salary remains unguaranteed.
Bucs’ bubble watch: Five who helped their chances
With the NFL’s deadline to finalize rosters approaching, several Buccaneers players on the bubble enhanced their prospects with impressive performances on Friday night.
C.J. Brewer, a defensive lineman, spent much of the previous season on the practice squad. He made a strong case for a final roster spot by recording a tackle for loss and deflecting a pass. Despite the return of the top six defensive linemen, Brewer’s efforts could secure him a position or at least a spot on the practice squad.
Kam Johnson, a wide receiver from Division II Barton College, made his preseason debut with 25 yards on five touches, including an 11-yard end-around. After missing two weeks due to a rib injury, Johnson’s performance solidified his place on the 53-man roster, making him a notable underdog story.
Tavierre Thomas, a versatile defensive back, recorded a team-high seven tackles and contributed on special teams. Having previously tallied 86 tackles for the Texans three years ago, Thomas is likely to secure a backup role and participate in kick coverage, competing against promising undrafted rookies.
Marcus Banks, a safety and undrafted rookie, delivered a standout hit on Miami’s second drive, taking down receiver Malik Washington with a textbook shoulder tackle. Banks, a Mississippi State alum, finished with five tackles, capitalizing on injuries to Whitehead and Kaevon Merriweather. He has a chance to secure a spot as the Bucs consider carrying a fourth safety.
Antonio Grier, a linebacker, may find himself on the practice squad, but he made significant defensive contributions, including an interception in the fourth quarter. He nearly scored a defensive touchdown after recovering a fumble, showcasing his potential despite facing tough competition for a roster spot.
Greg Auman serves as FOX Sports’ NFC South reporter, covering the Buccaneers, Falcons, Panthers, and Saints. With a decade of experience in full-time NFL coverage, including stints at the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic, he provides insights into the league’s dynamics. Follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.
