Although the Detroit Lions convincingly defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24-9 on Monday night, the focus has shifted from the result to accusations that they received favorable treatment from officials.
Former NFL punter and media personality Pat McAfee added fuel to fire with a direct comment on social media platform X.
“The NFL looking out for Detroit.. LOVE TO SEE IT,” McAfee wrote.
The NFL looking out for Detroit.. LOVE TO SEE IT @evanfoxy
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) October 21, 2025
He offered his comments after numerous calls raised eyebrows from Buccaneers fans on social media. Perhaps the most controversial play happened midway through the second quarter, when Tampa Bay tight end Cade Otton seemed to make a contested catch and it was knocked lose by Lions cornerback Arthur Maulet.
The officials on the field ruled the play a interception in Detroit’s favor. However upon replay, Otton appeared to control the football before being stripped. Upon review, the call stood as an interception which gave a direct turnover to the Lions without a catch being credited.
Detroit Lions Secure Commanding Victory to Move to 5-2
The Lions scored a commanding victory over the Buccaneers, thanks in large part to running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who accumulated 136 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns to go along with 82 receiving yards. Gibbs had a spectacular 78-yard rushing touchdown in the second quarter which essentially put the Lions in the driver’s seat.
Quarterback Jared Goff effectively managed the game as he threw for 241 yards and one touchdown. The Lions defense imposed its will, frustrating Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers offense and held it to just 58 yards in the first half, forcing two critical turnovers in the process.
Mayfield struggled the entire game, ending the game with 28 completions on 50 attempts for 228 yards.
The already difficult night for Tampa Bay grew even worse when it lost star receiver Mike Evans. Evans left the game in the second quarter after suffering a concussion and shoulder injury, and could be out till end of year.
Rookie Tez Johnson gave the Buccaneers their only good highlight of the night with their only touchdown, but Tampa Bay couldn’t gain any momentum after failing in the subsequent two-point conversion in the second half.
Both teams have a record of 5-2 this season.
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