Why take a step forward when you can slide backward? This question might echo in Tampa Bay after recent events. The Buccaneers’ heartbreaking Wildcard loss to the Commanders is still fresh, but the sting goes deeper for right guard Cody Mauch. The NFL’s actions suggest intensified scrutiny on Mauch, whose 2024 season marked both growth and missteps. These lapses could challenge both his momentum and the Bucs’ confidence in their offensive line.

The NFL announced back-to-back punishments for Mauch. The first fine came in Tampa Bay’s 2024 regular-season finale. He was penalized for unnecessary roughness (striking, kicking, or kneeing) in the third quarter when a scuffle with the Saints broke out. He was seen throwing some punches.

The penalty was $9,451. As per Rule 12 Section 2 Article 8, unnecessary roughness is prohibited. This includes striking/kicking a player or running, diving into, cutting, or throwing the body against another player. But the story didn’t stop there.

Another violation followed in the Wildcard game, as per NFL’s Gameday Accountability. He was penalized $9,451 for a chop block in the second quarter. As per Rule 12 Section 2 Article 5:

“All chop blocks are illegal. A chop block is a high/low double team block by the offense in which one offensive player (designated as A1 for purposes of this rule) blocks a defensive player in the area of the thigh or lower while another offensive player (A2) engages that same defensive player above the waist. The order of the blocks is irrelevant. It is not a foul if the defender initiates the contact with the blocker, or if the blocker is trying to slip or escape from the defendant and any engagement with him is incidental.”

Combined, these penalties form a narrative that’s hard to ignore. Pro Football Focus (PFF) named Mauch Tampa Bay‘s “most improved player” for 2024. His 2.7% pressure rate was the sixth-best among NFL guards. Yet, penalties for conduct remain his Achilles’ heel. It has somewhat tarnished his progress. Despite his improvement, this remains an area that will demand better focus from Mauch next season.

Coach Todd Bowles acknowledged Mauch’s growth. “He doesn’t get a lot of credit, either. His first year to second year, he’s grown.” Bowles said earlier this week. His comments reflect the improvement Mauch has made in a short period.

The Bucs’ offensive line was a critical factor in Baker Mayfield’s efficient season. Losing focus at key moments jeopardizes that cohesion. It’s an issue Tampa Bay’s front office must address to remain competitive.

Cody Mauch’s fines also raise broader questions about player accountability. The NFL aims to protect players and maintain fairness with these penalties. But for Tampa Bay, the timing couldn’t have been worse. It further clouds a season defined by near-misses and narrow defeats.

The Bucs took themselves out of the wild card game…

Tampa Bay’s 20-23 loss to Washington was a gut punch. Miscues—including Mauch’s penalty—played a pivotal role in the Commanders’ dramatic victory. Washington kicker Zane Gonzalez’s game-winning, doinked field goal stole headlines. But Tampa Bay’s late-game fumbles and clock management blunders told the real story.

Jayden Daniels has been a revelation. He is definitely Washington’s Rookie of the Year frontrunner. And he efficiently shredded Tampa Bay’s defense. He completed 24-of-35 passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns. His poise under pressure sealed the Commanders’ spot in the NFC Divisional Playoffs.

But on Tampa Bay’s side, QB Baker Mayfield delivered a solid performance for Tampa Bay. His stats? 15 of 18 for 185 yards and two touchdowns. However, his fourth-quarter fumble shifted momentum. And it led to Terry McLaurin’s go-ahead score. Tampa Bay couldn’t stop Washington’s last drive. This was despite McLaughlin tying the game late with a field goal.

Mauch’s mistakes and defensive miscues extended Washington’s drive and set up Gonzalez’s fateful field goal. Sure, fans were frustrated, and this brings in the question: How can the Bucs refine their offensive line while maintaining its strengths? The answers will define their 2025 campaign.

Tampa Bay’s season ended on a bittersweet note. It blended individual growth with team-wide setbacks on the night that mattered. What do you think?