Baker Mayfield stitched a dramatic comeback for Tampa Bay, guiding a game-winning drive in the final minute after escaping Texans pressure on a crucial fourth down. A 15-yard cutback on Gardner-Johnson sealed the moment, cementing Mayfield’s late-game clutch in a 20-19 win at NRG Stadium. The night featured a competitive back-and-forth between Mayfield and Gardner-Johnson, with strategic pressure and improv highlights shaping the outcome.

Houston’s defense buzzed in the two-minute drill, but Mayfield’s poise and mobility kept the Buccaneers alive. Earlier exchanges and trash-talk framed a combustible rivalry, yet Mayfield’s finishing kick underscored his ability to manufacture a winning sequence when it matters most. Fantasy managers should note the Buccaneers’ tendency to lean on improvisation in tight games.

Week 3’s fantasy defense slate centers on streaming value and clear starts, led by Green Bay, Seattle, Buffalo, and Indianapolis in Tier 1 with favorable matchups and strong pressure outputs. Expect continued sack-heavy games from these units, plus solid floor from the Falcons, Buccaneers, and Chiefs. Tier 2 adds Vikings, Texans, and Cardinals in matchups that carry swing potential if pass rush and turnover luck align. Tier 3 brings Commanders, Steelers, and Eagles in sturdy, mix-and-match starts. Tier 4-6 caution managers to seek safer streams or deeper-league plays and exploit waiver opportunities.

Key Week 3 takeaways: target defenses with high sack rates and favorable implied game scripts, especially when facing rookie QBs or O-lines with documented struggles. Watch injury reports and quarterback status closely, as even small changes can swing a D/ST’s Week 3 upside. This guide emphasizes tiered rankings, waiver adds, and start/sit decisions to help fantasy managers optimize lineups and shave points off potential losses.