Gibbs and Lions Dominate Bucs: Detroit Solidifies Lead in NFC

In every Lions game, running back Jahmyr Gibbs aims to shine, and that’s exactly what happened in the 24-9 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Gibbs had a spectacular performance, accumulating 218 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Detroit continues to prove to be one of the best teams in the NFL, especially after a loss. Since the start of the 2022 season, the Lions have an impressive record of 13-4 after a loss, the second best in the league in that period.

Match Highlights

Photo AP/Ryan Sun

Detroit Lions (5-2)

Most surprising performance: Despite the absences of starting safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, and cornerback Terrion Arnold, Detroit’s defense held firm, especially its secondary, which forced two turnovers from the Bucs in the first half. The unit limited Tampa Bay’s offense to 58 yards in the first two quarters and 251 in total, in addition to achieving four sacks. Amik Robertson forced a fumble that was recovered by Aidan Hutchinson, and Arthur Maulet intercepted a pass.Biggest problem in the game plan: Third-down conversions. Detroit had a low percentage of 3 of 13 on third-down attempts. Coach Dan Campbell expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s efficiency in this aspect.Key statistic: Gibbs had a 78-yard touchdown run, the longest of his NFL career. His top speed was 22.2 mph, the fastest touchdown run for an offensive running back this season. Gibbs is the only player in the last three seasons to reach 22 mph on a touchdown run, and he has done it twice. Next game: against the Minnesota Vikings (November 2nd)

AP Photo/Ryan Sun

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2)

With the return of Mike Evans and the incorporation of Emeka Egbuka, it seemed that the stars would align for Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers in Detroit, especially considering the Lions’ absences in their secondary. However, this did not happen, due to Tampa Bay’s mistakes and Evans’ exit due to a concussion and a fractured collarbone. Tampa Bay’s offense struggled to generate plays, and Mayfield’s connection with Egbuka was not efficient. Tampa Bay, which came into the game with the best record in the NFC, regressed after this loss.Quarterback Performance Analysis: Mayfield looked uncomfortable and out of rhythm, completing 28 of 50 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown with an interception. The only positive was his connection with Tez Johnson for a 22-yard touchdown.Biggest problem in the game plan: The Bucs’ defense conceded an explosive play and a touchdown on the first offensive series, something that had already happened in previous games. Tampa Bay also showed vulnerability in the short game.Biggest surprise: The Bucs’ run defense, which entered the game ranked fifth in yards allowed per carry, gave up 5.1 yards per carry and 164 rushing yards to the Lions. Gibbs’ 78-yard touchdown run was the fifth-longest play allowed by the Bucs’ defense in team history. Next game: against the New Orleans Saints.