At 6-3, with all three losses to playoff-caliber teams, it’s no time for the Buccaneers to panic. It also helped that the two teams just below them in the NFC South race also lost Sunday, but the last thing the Bucs want to do is back into a division title. They know they have to play better to be true contenders. Tampa Bay started hot against New England with a strong opening TD drive … and then went into an offensive lull. That was enough to open the door, with the Bucs D allowing plays of 72, 69, 55 and 54 yards, the first three of which went for touchdowns. We’ve gotten used to seeing Baker Mayfield pull it out late, and the Bucs had their chances, but they couldn’t find that next gear when they needed it. A frustrating setback, but nothing that significantly alters their outlook.
