Baker Mayfield Rages at Referees After Controversial Calls in Bucs’ Loss to Lions

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield didn’t hold back his frustration following Monday night’s 24–9 loss to the Detroit Lions. The game, played at Ford Field, ended the Buccaneers’ two-game winning streak — but most of the postgame discussion centered not on the scoreboard, but on what Mayfield and fans viewed as inconsistent officiating.

Mayfield was visibly furious after a series of controversial calls, including an overturned fourth-down catch by tight end Cade Otton in the second half. The reversal not only took away a crucial first down but also handed the Lions possession, shifting momentum in their favor.

Mayfield Calls Out “Questionable” Officiating Decisions

Speaking to reporters after the game, Mayfield voiced his discontent with how the game was handled. “A third-down defensive holding call that wasn’t called, and also still pretty damn confused about the double review,” he said. “A lot of things in that game that were a little questionable. I work my ass off, and I put a lot into this game, so when calls are made that I don’t think are fair, I’m going to let somebody know.”

The play in question occurred late in the third quarter when Mayfield connected with Otton for what was initially ruled a first down. After a Detroit challenge, officials reviewed the catch and upheld the call. But in an unusual twist, referees returned to the monitor moments later for a second review — this time reversing the decision, ruling Otton had not maintained possession long enough. The Lions regained the ball, and the reversal also restored a timeout for Detroit.

Earlier in the game, another overturned play sparked anger from the Buccaneers’ sideline. A short three-yard pass to Otton was ruled an interception after officials determined the ball had been trapped against his body by a Detroit defender before hitting the ground. Mayfield was seen arguing the decision with referees immediately afterward.

Buccaneers Struggle as Lions Dominate on the Ground

While the officiating drew headlines, the Lions’ dominance was undeniable. Rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs ran for 136 yards and scored two touchdowns, while David Montgomery added 21 yards on limited carries. The Buccaneers’ defense, which entered the game ranked third against the run, struggled to contain Detroit’s offensive line.

Tampa Bay’s offense, meanwhile, never found rhythm. The Bucs managed just 41 total rushing yards and were forced to rely on Mayfield’s arm. The quarterback finished 28 of 50 for 228 yards, one touchdown, and one interception — a stat line reflecting both his resilience and the offense’s inconsistency. “We were outplayed, simple as that,” head coach Todd Bowles said postgame. “But there were some moments that could’ve gone either way.”

Injury Woes Continue: Mike Evans Suffers Broken Clavicle

Adding to Tampa Bay’s troubles, star wide receiver Mike Evans was carted off the field in the second half. Medical staff later confirmed that he suffered a broken clavicle, which could sideline him for several weeks. The injury is a massive blow for Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense, already thin at receiver depth.

The Buccaneers now turn their attention to their NFC South rivals, the New Orleans Saints. With Mayfield battling a minor knee issue and Evans sidelined, the upcoming matchup carries even more significance as Tampa Bay looks to stay alive in the playoff race.

Baker Mayfield’s fiery comments have reignited the conversation about NFL officiating consistency, with fans and analysts alike calling for accountability after yet another prime-time controversy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Baker Mayfield say about the referees?

He said several calls were “questionable,” including a missed defensive holding and a “double review” that reversed a key fourth-down conversion.

Q2: Which play caused the most controversy?

The fourth-down pass to Cade Otton that was overturned after being reviewed twice became the focus of postgame criticism.

Q3: How did the Buccaneers perform against the Lions?

The Bucs lost 24–9, managing only 41 rushing yards, while the Lions’ Jahmyr Gibbs ran for 136 yards and two touchdowns.

Q4: What injury did Mike Evans suffer?

Mike Evans suffered a broken clavicle and was carted off the field. He is expected to miss multiple weeks.

Q5: What’s next for the Buccaneers?

The team faces the New Orleans Saints on Sunday in an important NFC South matchup as Mayfield recovers from a minor knee injury.