The Vikings vs Buccaneers matchup ended with the Minnesota Vikings securing a 23-16 road victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 27, 2026, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. While the Vikings celebrated an important win, the Buccaneers faced a major concern as quarterback Baker Mayfield suffered a dislocated right thumb late in the game.

The Vikings delivered a strong defensive performance to secure the victory, while Tampa Bay struggled to turn its offensive opportunities into points. Mayfield’s injury added to the disappointment for the Buccaneers, who fell to 0-3 for the season.

The result also raised questions about Tampa Bay’s quarterback situation ahead of its upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. Here’s everything to know about Vikings vs Buccaneers, the final score, Baker Mayfield’s injury, key game moments and where to watch the matchup.

Vikings vs Buccaneers Final Score

NFL · September 27, 2026 · Raymond James Stadium

 

 

Minnesota Vikings

23

Winner

FINAL

Week 4

 

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

16

Lost

 

Minnesota won 23-16 on the road.

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by seven points, improving their position after a challenging start to the season. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, continued their winless run, dropping to 0-3.

The Vikings’ defense played a key role in the outcome, particularly during the closing stages. Minnesota intercepted Mayfield on a fourth-and-13 attempt with 1:39 remaining, helping the visitors protect their lead.

Baker Mayfield Suffers Dislocated Thumb

The biggest concern from the Vikings vs Buccaneers game was the injury to Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield. He dislocated his right thumb late in the fourth quarter while attempting to lead the Buccaneers on a potential game-tying drive.

Mayfield was injured on a fourth-and-13 play with just 1:39 remaining. Minnesota linebacker Blake Cashman hit Mayfield’s throwing hand during the play, and the quarterback immediately went down in pain.

Mayfield was visibly distressed and grabbed his bloody thumb before eventually walking off the field. He later slammed his helmet to the ground as he headed toward the locker room.

Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles confirmed the dislocation after the game. X-rays showed no fracture, but Mayfield was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the full extent of the injury.

The MRI results will be important in determining whether Mayfield can return for Tampa Bay’s next game.

Baker Mayfield’s Stats Against the Vikings

Despite suffering an injury late in the contest, Mayfield recorded a significant amount of passing production against Minnesota.

Mayfield completed 17 of his 34 passing attempts for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His touchdown pass was the 199th of his NFL career.

The quarterback had recently signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension with Tampa Bay. His injury therefore represents an important development for a Buccaneers team relying on his experience and leadership.

Mayfield, 31, is in his fourth season with Tampa Bay and ninth season in the NFL. He was also selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons with the Buccaneers.

Jalon Daniels Enters the Game for Tampa Bay

With Mayfield unable to continue, undrafted rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels entered the game with only 33 seconds remaining.

Daniels was Tampa Bay’s only other quarterback on the active 53-man roster. He attempted three passes but failed to complete any of them.

His final attempt was a Hail Mary pass that was intercepted by Minnesota’s Isaiah Rodgers on the last play of the game. Daniels also recorded a nine-yard scramble during his brief appearance.

The rookie’s limited playing time came in a difficult situation, with the Buccaneers trailing and little time remaining to complete a comeback.

Head coach Todd Bowles indicated that Daniels would be the starting quarterback for Tampa Bay’s next game against the Green Bay Packers, depending on Mayfield’s medical evaluation and recovery.

Tampa Bay also has veteran quarterback Easton Stick on its practice squad. Stick previously went 0-4 as a starter for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023 while Justin Herbert was injured.

How the Vikings Secured the Victory

Minnesota’s 23-16 win was built around its ability to make crucial defensive plays during the closing stages of the game.

The Vikings put pressure on Mayfield and forced him into a difficult fourth-and-13 situation late in the fourth quarter. Minnesota’s Andrew Van Ginkel intercepted the pass with 1:39 remaining, giving the Vikings a key opportunity to preserve their advantage.

The play also contributed to Mayfield’s injury, as Blake Cashman hit his throwing hand during the sequence.

Tampa Bay had another opportunity to make a final push after Daniels entered the game. However, Minnesota’s defense remained organized and intercepted the rookie’s Hail Mary attempt to end the contest.

The Vikings’ defensive effort helped them leave Tampa with a seven-point win, while the Buccaneers were left to deal with both the loss and uncertainty surrounding their starting quarterback.

Buccaneers’ Quarterback Situation After the Loss

The Vikings vs Buccaneers result left Tampa Bay with questions about its offense heading into the following week. Mayfield’s thumb injury could affect the team’s preparation for its upcoming matchup against the Green Bay Packers.

Daniels is expected to take over as the starting quarterback if Mayfield is unavailable. However, the Buccaneers’ plans will depend on the MRI results and the quarterback’s recovery.

Tampa Bay may also consider elevating Easton Stick from the practice squad if additional quarterback depth is required.

Mayfield’s absence would be significant for an offense that depends on his passing ability, decision-making and experience. The team will need to assess its options before finalizing its preparations for the Packers.

Vikings vs Buccaneers: Where to Watch

Fans searching for Vikings vs Buccaneers where to watch can check official NFL viewing services and broadcasters for game replays and available highlights.

• United States: Check NFL broadcast listings, NFL+, and authorized streaming services for available replays and highlights.

• India: Check NFL Game Pass availability through DAZN or other authorized NFL viewing options in your region.

• Highlights: Visit the official NFL, Minnesota Vikings and Tampa Bay Buccaneers digital channels for game highlights and postgame coverage.

The matchup took place on September 27, 2026, so live coverage is no longer available. Replay availability and regional access may vary by platform.

What Is Next for the Vikings and Buccaneers?

The Vikings will look to build on their road victory and carry their defensive momentum into their next game. Their performance against Tampa Bay demonstrated the importance of creating turnovers and executing in high-pressure situations.

The Buccaneers, meanwhile, must address their quarterback situation before facing the Green Bay Packers. With Mayfield scheduled for an MRI, the medical assessment will be a major factor in determining the team’s offensive approach.

Tampa Bay will also need to improve its overall execution after starting the season 0-3. The upcoming game will be an important opportunity for the Buccaneers to respond to their difficult start.

Vikings vs Buccaneers: Key Game Details

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the Vikings vs Buccaneers game?

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-16 on September 27, 2026, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

What happened to Baker Mayfield against the Vikings?

Baker Mayfield dislocated his right thumb late in the fourth quarter after being hit by Blake Cashman. X-rays showed no fracture, and Mayfield was scheduled for an MRI to assess the injury.

What were Baker Mayfield’s stats against the Vikings?

Mayfield completed 17 of 34 passes for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception before leaving the game with a thumb injury.

Where can I watch Vikings vs Buccaneers?

Fans can check NFL+, authorized NFL streaming services and regional broadcasters for replay availability. Official NFL and team channels may also provide highlights.

Who replaced Baker Mayfield in the Vikings game?

Rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels replaced Mayfield with 33 seconds remaining. He attempted three passes, all incomplete, and threw an interception on a final Hail Mary attempt.

Who will the Buccaneers play next?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are scheduled to host the Green Bay Packers in their next game. Jalon Daniels is expected to start if Mayfield is unable to play, pending further medical updates.

Conclusion

The Vikings vs Buccaneers game ended in a 23-16 victory for Minnesota, with the Vikings’ defense making crucial plays to secure the road win. Andrew Van Ginkel’s interception and Isaiah Rodgers’ final-play interception helped prevent Tampa Bay from mounting a late comeback.

For the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield’s dislocated thumb became the major concern following the defeat. His MRI results will help determine his availability, while rookie Jalon Daniels prepares for the possibility of starting against Green Bay.

The Vikings leave Tampa with a valuable victory, while the Buccaneers must regroup and find a way to improve their 0-3 start.