Mayfield-led Buccaneers sputter offensively in 26-7 loss to previously winless Broncos

By FRED GOODALL The Associated Press

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, center, is tackled by Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen on a fourth down play during the second half of an NFL football game, in Tampa, Fla. on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Chris O'Meara]

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Coach Todd Bowles rejected the notion that a 26-7 loss to the Denver Broncos was a wakeup call for his Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs sputtered offensively and didn’t get the job done on defense, either. The loss spoiled a bid to open a season with three consecutive victories for the first time since 2005. The Bucs were outgained the Bo Nix-led Broncos 352 yards to 223. The Broncos sacked Baker Mayfield seven times and intercepted the Tampa Bay quarterback once. Bowles said it’s not a time to overreact. He said the Bucs simply need to play better to get back on track.