Detroit Lions defensive back C.J. Gardner Johnson and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield exchanged subtle jabs at each other earlier this week in preparation for Sunday’s postseason clash. Gardner-Johnson suggested that the Tampa Bay receivers could post monster numbers if they had a quarterback, suggesting Mayfield holds the group of pass catchers back. Meanwhile, Mayfield questioned Gardner-Johnson’s film-watching ability after the safety listed Russell Gage as one of the players hindered by the signal-caller. Gage has yet to play receiver for the Bucs this season. On Sunday, Gardner-Johnson intercepted Mayfield in the first quarter, flipping the ball back to him while Ford Field went wild.
C. J. Gardner-Johnson tossing Baker the ball at the end is INSANE pic.twitter.com/8XDLrSCnet
— gabb (@gabbgoudy) January 21, 2024
Detroit Lions Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson: Picks Off Mayfield
Gardner-Johnson intercepted Mayfield during the Bucs’ first drive of the first quarter. Mayfield looked for future Hall of Famer Mike Evans across the middle on 3rd-and-17, with the perfect pass bouncing off the wideout’s chest. Gardner-Johnson snagged the ball out of the air, returning it into Tampa Bay territory. The Florida safety tossed the ball back at Mayfield at the end of the play.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Down at the Half
Despite an early interception, Mayfield has played well. He is 13 of 18 for 181 yards, one touchdown, and one pick. Field goal kicker Chase McLaughlin is one-of-two on three-point tries, missing a 50-yard attempt. They have run the ball well, with lead back Rachaad White taking five carries for 39 yards. Backup rusher Chase Edmonds also has three rush attempts for 15 yards.
The Lions will head into the break tied at ten. Goff is 14 of 22 for 99 yards and a touchdown. His one touchdown pass went to wideout Josh Reynolds. First-year tight end leads the way with five receptions for 46 yards. The duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery have combined for nine carries and 30 yards rushing.
The Lions will get the ball to start the second half.
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