Mayfield shines in final tuneup for regular season; Buccaneers hold off Ravens 26-20

Baker Mayfield shines in final preseason game as Tampa Bay's new starting quarterback, leading Buccaneers to victory over Ravens.

Baker Mayfield showcased his comfort and confidence as Tampa Bay's new starting quarterback in the Buccaneers' 26-20 preseason-closing victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Despite playing less than a quarter, Mayfield threw a touchdown pass and completed all six of his passes for 43 yards. This marked his first game action since the preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mayfield's performance solidified his position as the starter over third-year pro Kyle Trask. The No. 1 overall pick from the 2018 draft led the offense on a successful scoring drive, erasing an early 7-0 deficit. Mayfield expressed his readiness for the regular season, stating that he and the first-string offense have put in the necessary work during practice and games.

Lamar Jackson did not play for the Ravens, as expected, as they used the game to evaluate backups and young prospects competing for spots on the final roster. Josh Johnson started at quarterback for Baltimore and was later replaced by Anthony Brown. Johnson completed 6 of 9 passes for 95 yards and one touchdown, while Brown completed 12 of 21 passes for 171 yards and no touchdowns.

Tampa Bay's No. 1 defense saw its first action of the preseason, with Coach Todd Bowles resting most of the regular starters in previous games. Trask, the 2021 second-round draft pick, played almost the entire game for the second consecutive week. He completed 19 of 31 passes for 192 yards and a touchdown. Trask also led four drives resulting in field goals by Chase McLaughlin.

In terms of injuries, Bucs center Ryan Jensen's career may be in jeopardy as he is headed for injured reserve and will miss the entire 2023 season. Jensen tore ligaments in his left knee during training camp last year and sat out the entire 2022 regular season. Despite not undergoing surgery, Jensen's condition worsened as he attempted to return to play in the playoffs. As a result, third-year pro Robert Hainsey will start at center this season.

Both the Ravens and the Buccaneers will open the regular season on September 10. The Ravens will host the Houston Texans, while the Buccaneers will travel to Minnesota to face the Vikings.

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