Key Storylines to Watch: Bills vs. Buccaneers Clash
Sunday’s NFL showdown features a highly anticipated matchup between two quarterbacks from the same draft class: Josh Allen and Baker Mayfield. This game marks their third meeting as starting quarterbacks.
Quarterback Backgrounds
Both quarterbacks were selected in the 2018 NFL Draft. Baker Mayfield was picked first overall by the Cleveland Browns, while Josh Allen was chosen seventh overall by the Buffalo Bills. Mayfield started his career impressively, throwing for 3,725 passing yards and 27 touchdowns in his rookie season. He maintained a high level of performance during his first three years, achieving at least 3,500 passing yards and 22 touchdowns each season. Mayfield secured six wins in each of his first two years, culminating in 11 wins in his third season.
In contrast, Josh Allen’s rookie season was marred by an elbow injury that sidelined him for four games. He completed his first year with 2,074 passing yards and 18 total touchdowns. Allen’s performance surged notably between his second and third seasons; he recorded a leap from 3,089 passing yards to 4,544 and increased his touchdowns from 29 to 46. In that impressive third season, Allen achieved 13 wins, which is tied for the highest in his career.
Career Progression
After the initial years, the career paths of Mayfield and Allen diverged dramatically. Mayfield remained with the Browns for four seasons before being traded to the Carolina Panthers in July 2022. His stint in Carolina was brief; he was released in December and soon claimed by the Los Angeles Rams. Following a challenging 2022 season, Mayfield transitioned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, where he rejuvenated his performance, completing 71% of his passes for 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns, marking his best season yet.
On the other hand, Josh Allen has remained a pivotal player for the Bills, leading the team to five consecutive AFC East titles and securing at least 10 wins in six seasons. He has consistently achieved over 40 total touchdowns for five straight years, setting the record as the first player in NFL history to do so. Additionally, he has amassed an impressive tally of 76 wins, 262 total touchdowns, and 30,595 total yards in his first seven seasons.
Looking Ahead: Bills vs. Buccaneers Clash
As both quarterbacks prepare to clash once again, they each carry a win from their previous encounters. The 2018 draft produced other notable first-round quarterbacks, including Sam Darnold, who now plays for the Seahawks, and Lamar Jackson of the Ravens, while Josh Rosen is no longer in the NFL.
As the Bills and Buccaneers face off, all eyes will be on Allen and Mayfield, showcasing the talent and determination that have defined their careers thus far.
