Botched handoff by Baker Mayfield and late failures by Bucs' offense contribute to playoff loss

Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner, left, recovers a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, right, during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025.

Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner, left, recovers a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, right, during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)


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TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield's fourth-quarter fumble led to a touchdown that gave the Washington Commanders a short-lived lead. And the inability of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' high-powered offense to produce more than a tying field goal on the next possession set the stage for a quick exit from the NFL playoffs. After that kick, the Bucs allowed Jayden Daniels and the Commanders to hold the ball for the final 4:41. Mayfield threw two touchdown passes, but a botched handoff attempt to receiver Jalen McMillan on an end-around play gave the Commanders life.

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