WWE icon Ric Flair shares words of encouragement for Baker Mayfield after Bucs loss vs Lions: “You’re A Badass”

With a remarkable display of leadership and athleticism, Baker Mayfield steered the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to clinch the NFC South title, sparking anticipation among fans about the post-Tom Brady era. This triumph marked their first playoff victory since Brady’s retirement in 2021, which added significance to Mayfield’s bold statements regarding Brady.

However, the Buccaneers faced a setback as they succumbed to the Detroit Lions at Ford Field with a scoreline of 31-23. Despite concluding their postseason journey, Mayfield’s dynamism caught the attention of professional wrestler Ric Flair, who expressed admiration for Mayfield’s explosive performance after the game.

Ric Flair lavishes praise on Baker Mayfield

The wrestling legend Ric Flair heaped praise on Baker Mayfield for his remarkable efforts to lead the Buccaneers, despite their loss to the Lions. Flair expressed his newfound respect for Mayfield and the entire Buccaneers team, acknowledging their impressive journey in the playoffs.

Flair not only commended the quarterback for playing his heart out but also extended an invitation to hang out in Tampa with the Bucs’ starter.

“We’ve Only Met Once. As Of Today, I Have So Much Respect For You And The @Buccaneers! You Played Your Heart Out. You’re A Badass! I Live In Tampa. I Don’t Have Your Number. I Would Love To Hang Out With You! You’re Such A Badass! I’m So Proud To Say That I’m A Buccaneers Fan! To The Whole Buccaneers Team, God Bless You! You Went Places You Weren’t Supposed To Go! Next Year, Let’s Kick Ass! WOOOOO”

Despite Mayfield’s commendable performance, the Lions emerged victorious, with Jared Goff’s two touchdowns sealing the night. The Lions’ triumph propelled them to a conference championship game for the first time since 1991. It marked a significant milestone for a franchise that had never reached a Super Bowl.

The Lions’ victory was sealed with Jahmyr Gibbs’ impressive 31-yard touchdown run and Amon-Ra St. Brown’s 9-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter. These pivotal plays secured a 14-point lead for the Lions and brought an end to the Buccaneers’ quest for the Lombardi Trophy in the divisional round of the payoffs.

Baker Mayfield’s performance in Bucs loss to Lions

Baker Mayfield wrapped up 26 of 41 passes for an impressive 349 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions against the Lions. The game marked a historic night for him as he became the only quarterback in franchise history to record a second straight game with 300-plus yards and three touchdown passes.

The Lions took an early lead during the game, making it 10-3 in the second quarter with a 9-yard touchdown reception by wide receiver Josh Reynolds. However, Mayfield responded with resilience, leading the Bucs to tie the game at 17-17 in the final seconds of the third quarter. His second touchdown pass to Rachaad White showcased his determination to keep the Bucs in the fight.

Despite facing challenges, the Bucs’ quarterback continued to shine, delivering his third touchdown to Mike Evans. It trimmed their deficit to 31-23 with just 4:37 left in the game. Unfortunately, a second interception by the signal-caller proved to be a pivotal moment that contributed to the Bucs’ ultimate defeat.

With the Bucs’ loss, the Lions secured their victory and a ticket to the NFC championship game, where they will face the 49ers next Sunday.