Buccaneers

Tampa Bay secured a crucial victory against the Chargers, maintaining their dominance in the NFC South. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield commended the offensive line’s stellar performance and offensive coordinator Liam Coen for tailoring the strategy to leverage the team’s strengths.

“They’re playing extremely well right now,” Mayfield stated. “You hit on it… Our edge players faced off against some formidable rushers on the Chargers’ defense, but we have great trust in our guys. The interior players – Ben [Bredeson], Graham [Barton], and Cody [Mauch] – have been improving consistently. We rely on them heavily, especially in the second half where we focused on our running game.”

“Top offensive coordinators adapt their game plans to their players’ strengths, and Liam has exemplified this. Initially, we planned to implement a lot of ’11’ personnel, but we’ve adjusted as our run game evolves. The successful adaptors like Liam make all the difference. Of course, being in this environment requires thick skin, so we’ll keep him grounded [laughs].”

Falcons

In a surprising move, Atlanta has opted to start first-round quarterback Michael Penix Jr. despite having awarded QB Kirk Cousins a substantial contract this offseason. Cousins has publicly expressed his understanding regarding the change, acknowledging his own underwhelming performance and extending his support to Penix.

“This is professional football, and I hold myself to a high standard, as does the team. Unfortunately, I was not meeting that standard consistently,” Cousins remarked, according to ESPN’s Marc Raimondi. “It is what it is now. I embrace my role — the ‘one play away’ mentality — and am focused on supporting Mike. We need to secure wins in the remaining games to reach the playoffs, and that’s the goal.”

“I just wanted to convey my support to him and let him know I’m here to help however I can.”

Saints

• ESPN’s Dan Graziano suggests that the Saints might consider parting ways with QB Derek Carr after this season, particularly with a new coaching staff and the team’s lack of success during his time.
• Carr is set to receive $30 million from an injury guarantee beginning at the start of the 2025 league year, which necessitates passing a physical and being released to avoid this payment.
• Saints running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire expressed that the opportunity to join New Orleans and return home was too valuable to pass up. (Jeff Nowak)