The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Francisco 49ers faced off on October 12, 2025, with a thrilling game that showcased the Buccaneers' early heroics and the 49ers' struggles with injuries. Baker Mayfield's two touchdown passes and a spectacular scramble in the fourth quarter proved pivotal, leading the Buccaneers to a 30-19 victory over the 49ers. Despite winning four games with late-minute scores, the Buccaneers' early lead secured their win without needing a dramatic comeback.
The game's turning point came when Mayfield, facing a third-and-14, evaded multiple defenders and scrambled for a first down. He then connected with Tez Johnson for a 45-yard touchdown pass, extending the Buccaneers' lead to 27-19. The 49ers' hopes were dashed when Mac Jones threw an interception to Jamel Dean, leading to a field goal that sealed the Buccaneers' win. Jones, playing through injuries, threw for 347 yards with two picks, marking his first loss in four starts as a replacement for Brock Purdy.
The 49ers' injury woes continued with All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner suffering a serious right ankle injury in the first quarter. The team was already missing key players like Nick Bosa, George Kittle, Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall, and Purdy. The Buccaneers, without star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin and running back Bucky Irving, lost rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka to a hamstring injury in the second half. Despite these setbacks, Mayfield's performance and the Buccaneers' early lead were the deciding factors in the game.
Mayfield's connection with Kameron Johnson for a 34-yard touchdown and Sean Tucker's 9-yard run in the second quarter put the Buccaneers ahead 14-10. Christian McCaffrey's rushing touchdown gave the 49ers a 10-7 lead, their first of the season. The 49ers' kicker, Eddy Pineiro, scored field goals of 52, 54, 42, and 29 yards. McCaffrey's 54 yards rushing and 57 yards receiving highlighted his impact on the game.
The 49ers' injuries persisted, with Pearsall (knee) and Purdy (toe) missing games. The Buccaneers' inactive list included Evans (hamstring), Godwin (fibula), RBs Bucky Irving (foot/shoulder) and Josh Williams (concussion), and CBs Benjamin Morrison (hamstring) and Zyon McCollum (thumb).
The game's outcome showcased the Buccaneers' resilience and Mayfield's leadership, while the 49ers' injuries and turnovers proved costly. The Buccaneers' victory sets the stage for their upcoming match against the Detroit Lions, while the 49ers will host the Atlanta Falcons, aiming to recover from their injuries and losses.
