Predicted Stat Line: Buccaneers’ QB Baker Mayfield vs Cincinnati

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will open the 2026 season against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium.

Baker Mayfield enters the matchup after throwing for 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns during the 2025 season.

The Bengals have significantly revamped their defense, adding defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence and several other experienced players.

Predicted Stat Line for Baker Mayfield vs Cincinnati Bengals

– Passing Yards: 250-280 yards
– Passing Touchdowns: 2-3
– Interceptions: 0-1

Key Factors Influencing

– Mayfield threw 26 touchdowns against 11 interceptions while completing 63.2% of his passes in 2025.

– Cincinnati added Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen to a defensive line featuring significant veteran experience.

– Mayfield has shown strong production since joining Tampa Bay, including two Pro Bowl selections.

– The Bengals’ revamped defense should provide a difficult test, particularly with Lawrence creating pressure from the interior.

Final Stat Predictions

•  Passing Yards: 267
• Passing Touchdowns: 3
• Interceptions: 0

Mayfield enters Cincinnati with a chance to immediately establish the tone for Tampa Bay’s offense. His ability to protect the football could be especially important against Cincinnati’s revamped defensive front.

The Bengals have invested heavily into improving their defense, making this a challenging opening assignment. Still, Mayfield has the experience and weapons to produce a strong performance in Week One.