Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner (54) recovers a fumble by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) during the fourth quarter of a NFC wild-card playoff at Raymond James Stadium. Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Watch: Baker Mayfield commits a costly fumble vs. Commanders

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Jan 12, 2025 11:15 PM ET

Baker Mayfield made a huge mistake late in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ wild-card matchup against the Washington Commanders.

The Buccaneers held a 17-13 lead over the Commanders midway through the fourth quarter at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The Bucs’ defense had just forced a critical turnover on downs to get the ball back deep in their own territory.

Facing 1st-and-10 at their 15, Mayfield botched what appeared to be a simple handoff to wide receiver Jalen McMillan. The ball ended up on the grass and Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner was the first one to jump on it.

CHAOS! Baker loses the ball and it's @Commanders ball in the red zone

: #WASvsTB on NBC
: Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/0Oq5lmBhsF

— NFL (@NFL) January 13, 2025

The play could have also called for Mayfield to fake the handoff and run the ball himself. But regardless of intention, Mayfield mishandled the ball all the same.

Mayfield was seen taking ownership of the mistake on the sidelines.

Wagner was on the wrong end a of Baker Mayfield highlight run earlier in the game. His fumble recovery more than made up for it.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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