What did the Buccaneers learn in Week 17 against the Dolphins?

Sunday’s 20–17 loss to the Miami Dolphins was a frustrating reminder of how thin the margin for error is for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tampa Bay ultimately couldn’t overcome its own mistakes, leaving the Bucs searching for answers as the season continues to slip away.

There were moments when the Buccaneers looked like the team fans hoped to see all season. Tampa Bay opened the game with confidence, moving the ball efficiently and striking first with a sharp touchdown drive that set an early tone. The connection between Baker Mayfield and his top receivers showed life, and when the Bucs were aggressive, the offense responded.

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That aggressiveness resurfaced late in the fourth quarter, when Tampa Bay engineered a lightning-fast touchdown drive to pull within three points.

Big plays downfield reminded everyone that this offense can be dangerous when it clicks, and the team’s refusal to quit until the final moments deserves credit. Chris Godwin Jr and Jalen McMillan both finished the game with over 100 yards and look like the future of the offense, both having to work their way back from injuries this season.

Unfortunately, consistency never followed those highlights. The Buccaneers struggled to sustain drives for most of the afternoon, repeatedly stalling after a few positive plays. Turnovers proved especially damaging, wiping out scoring opportunities and swinging momentum back to Miami. Baker Mayfield had three turnovers himself: two interceptions and one fumble lost on a strip sack.

On top of the turnovers, the Bucs failed to stop the bleeding on defense, giving up over 100 total yards to De’Von Achane on the day, as Miami continued to go to the well, Tampa had no answer.

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What made the loss truly sting was how avoidable it felt. Third-down inefficiency kept the Bucs’ defense on the field and prevented any offensive rhythm from developing. On the other side, Miami capitalized on Tampa Bay’s miscues, turning mistakes into points and confidence. Even after a late comeback attempt, the Bucs couldn’t execute when it mattered most. The Bucs needed to win this game, as players mentioned it as a "must-win" and still didn't show up.

Now, after starting 5-1, they must win week 18 against the Carolina Panthers, who have pushed the perennial NFC South champions to the brink.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: What did the Bucs learn in Week 17 against the Dolphins?