Mike Evans ended his losing streak at the best time on Sunday in Tampa, scoring no fewer than three touchdowns in the 30-24 win over the Carolina Panthers, confirming the Buccaneers’ participation in the playoffs.
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Every time he scored, Evans caught long passes from quarterback Tom Brady. Those are indeed plays of 63, 57 and 30 yards that earned the Florida club promotion. He hadn’t made a major in his last 11 games, he has 81 in his career.
Brady himself secured the win for his team by crossing the goal line with a sneak from the quarter in the final moments of the game. He completed 34 of 45 passes for 432 yards.
When the defense then assigned a placement to the visitors, they didn’t flinch during their rivals’ final offensive sequence to confirm the result.
Despite a more complicated season, the “Bucs” clinched a second straight title in the federation’s Eastern Division, an unprecedented feat in their history.
In the loss, Sam Darnold also did well with 23 successful throws on 37 tries for 341 yards, three majors and one interception.
The giants too
The Giants also sealed their place in the playoffs with a 30-10 win over the Indianapolis Colts in New York.
Richie James and Isaiah Hodgins put them ahead with sizzling touchdowns in the second quarter, then Landon Collins got an interception into the end zone before half-time.
Daniel Jones joined his receivers 19 times in 24 air games for 188 yards and two majors. He led the Giants to their first playoff appearance since 2016.
In summary
The Dallas Cowboys’ 27-13 win over the Tennessee Titans pushed back the Philadelphia Eagles’ crowning glory in the National East. The latter lost 20-10 to the New Orleans Saints in front of their supporters.
For their part, the Lions maintained their chances of qualifying with a convincing 41-10 win over the Bears in Chicago.
The Miami Dolphins made life difficult by losing 23-21 to the New England Patriots in Massachusetts.