Dolphins Upset Buccaneers 20-17 as Tampa Bay’s Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread

Dolphins Deliver Crushing Blow to Buccaneers’ Playoff Dreams

In a stunning turn of events at Hard Rock Stadium on December 28, 2025, the Miami Dolphins defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-17, with rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers throwing for 172 yards and two touchdowns. The loss marked another devastating setback for Tampa Bay, which desperately needed a victory to keep their postseason aspirations alive.

Turnovers Doom Buccaneers in Critical Contest

A season-high three turnovers and a failure to maintain momentum after a fast start doomed the Buccaneers to the road loss. Despite Baker Mayfield’s impressive performance—completing 33 of 44 passes for 346 yards with a touchdown—his two interceptions proved costly. Mayfield has thrown an interception in each game of the Buccaneers’ losing streak, including a crucial red-zone interception to safety Ashtyn Davis whilst trailing by 10 in the fourth quarter. Mike Evans candidly assessed his team’s effort, noting the Dolphins “played like they had a chance at the playoffs, and we played like we were ready to go home”.

Playoff Picture Remains Alive Despite Fourth Consecutive Loss

The Buccaneers have now lost four straight games, and six out of the last seven following a 6-2 start. However, Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes remain mathematically possible. The Bucs (7-9) remained one game behind the Carolina Panthers (8-8) in the NFC South after the Panthers’ 27-10 loss to Seattle. Head Coach Todd Bowles acknowledged the team needs to execute at critical times whilst noting they still have a potential chance to make the playoffs. The Buccaneers will host Carolina in Week 18, knowing their season hangs in the balance and a victory could potentially deliver their fifth consecutive NFC South title.