Mike Evans shut down Marshon Lattimore in the best way with first half masterclass

After a disappointing slate of playoff games all day on Sunday, the Bucs and Commanders had the chance to bring the competition on Sunday Night Football. They might not be rivals or teams that play each other that often, but their matchup was expected to be the hottest of the day, and boy, have they delivered so far.

The Bucs took the lead early on, scoring the first points of the game with a 50-yard field goal in the first quarter, but they quickly fell behind when the ever-impressive Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to ten unanswered points with just minutes to spare until halftime.

Fortunately, Baker Mayfield knows how to run a solid two minute drill and led the Bucs down the field to secure a field goal before time ran out.

But instead of having to rely on the easy points, Mike Evans continued his domination over longtime rival, Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore, by not only securing a defensive pass interference in the end zone but then scoring Tampa's first touchdown of the day, leaving only ten seconds on the clock for Washington in the second quarter.

It was quite a sight to behold, considering their history, and a fitting way to head into halftime with momentum.

Mike Evans is keeping the Bucs offense alive, with some help from an underperforming Marshon Lattimore

It has been so far, so good for Evans in his battle against Lattimore, and the hope is that it will continue throughout the rest of the game. Their heated rivalry has consistently created the biggest headlines in their matchups, and it's clear that's far from over with tonight's game being tied at halftime.

Evan has already recorded five receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown through two quarters, remaining Mayfield's number-one target in what hasn't been the easiest game thus far.

He has gotten the best of Lattimore, who some feel maybe isn't 100% healthy since he is playing uncharacteristically poor to this point, and it's hard to imagine that will stop once the game resumes.

It puts the Bucs' offense ahead of the Commanders, despite the clear chemistry Daniels has with his WR1 Terry McLaurin. If Mayfield and Evans can keep their hot streak going, the Bucs should have a major shot at stealing a playoff win and continuing their path to the Super Bowl.

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