Baker Mayfield made headlines on Sunday with a spirited performance that included a rushing touchdown against the New York Giants. The Bucs quarterback showcased his athleticism by leaping over the goal line during a second-down scramble, which pushed Tampa Bay’s lead to an impressive 23-0 before halftime.
After scoring, Mayfield celebrated by raising both hands above his head, with his thumbs pressed against his fingers, and he punctuated his celebration with a vigorous pumping motion. This gesture was widely interpreted as a playful jab at Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito, who had previously become a fan favorite in New York for his own version of the hand gesture, a nod to his Italian American heritage.
DeVito found himself back in the spotlight this season as the Giants’ starting quarterback after the team made the decision to bench and subsequently release Daniel Jones. Unfortunately for DeVito, the atmosphere in New York has not been as uplifting this year, with the team entering the game against the Bucs with a disappointing 2-8 record. During the game, DeVito struggled and finished the first half with only 45 passing yards as the Giants fell deeper into a tough spot at 23-0.
While Mayfield’s stinger in the fourth quarter cast a shadow over his otherwise commanding performance, he continued to lead the Bucs to a decisive 30-7 victory. This win not only highlights the resilience of the Tampa Bay team but also suggests that they are building momentum as the season progresses.
This matchup serves as a reminder of the fluctuating fortunes of players in the NFL. While Mayfield is currently experiencing a resurgence, DeVito’s journey should inspire hope, as he has previously shown the ability to captivate fans and make an impact on the field. The league is known for its unpredictable nature, and every player has the potential to rise and shine as new opportunities unfold.