Baker Mayfield and Jared Goff are preparing to clash on Monday Night Football as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions meet for the third straight year — with Mayfield eager to settle the score after recent disappointments.

Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ impressive 2023 campaign ended at the hands of the Lions in the playoffs, before suffering another defeat to them in Week Two of the 2024 season.

Both quarterbacks share similar career paths. Each was selected first overall and achieved early success before being traded away, now finding renewed form and stability with their new franchises.

Still, Mayfield hopes to finally earn a victory over Goff after three consecutive losses, including a playoff matchup in which he threw two costly interceptions that continue to sting.

The Buccaneers’ signal-caller has been performing at an MVP-caliber level through six weeks this season and has often praised both the Lions organization and the environment at Ford Field.

Reflecting on his previous experience facing Detroit, Mayfield described matchups with Dan Campbell’s squad as a valuable gauge for any contender’s strength and resilience.

When asked whether the Lions game serves as a true test for Tampa Bay’s growth, Mayfield said: “Absolutely. Every week in this league demands your best effort. If you don’t come ready, any team can beat you.

“This one’s definitely a measuring stick — going on the road against an NFC Championship team, exactly where we want to be. It’s the kind of challenge that shows us where we stand.”

He added, “It’s about testing ourselves against top competition and seeing how our guys respond early in the year. It’s a long season, but this matchup can teach us a lot.”

Mayfield remains among the frontrunners for the MVP award, continuing to thrive even without key targets Mike Evans and Chris Godwin in the lineup.

He has leaned on standout rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka, who ranks fourth in receiving yards behind former Ohio State teammate and league leader Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Unfortunately, Egbuka is now sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Despite missing key players, the Buccaneers enter prime time determined to make a statement against the Lions — a victory that could boost their confidence and reinforce their belief as legitimate contenders this season.