NFL Week 13 Showdown: Cardinals vs Buccaneers – Baker Mayfield’s Status & Key Returns

The stage is set for an electrifying NFL Week 13 battle as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Arizona Cardinals. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially with crucial updates on star players. All eyes are on Baker Mayfield, the Buccaneers’ resilient quarterback, and a host of other key figures making their return to the field. This Sunday promises high-stakes action at Raymond James Stadium as both teams vie for a crucial victory.

Baker Mayfield: Leading the Bucs Despite Injury Woes

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has displayed remarkable resilience, preparing to extend his impressive streak of consecutive starts to 46. Despite sustaining a shoulder injury last week that initially kept him sidelined and out of Wednesday’s practice, Mayfield has made a rapid and steady recovery. After fully participating in Friday’s practice, he has been officially cleared to play and is expected to lead the charge against the Arizona Cardinals. His determination will be a significant factor in Tampa Bay’s offensive strategy.

Buccaneers Bolstered by Key Returns

The Buccaneers’ roster receives a welcome boost with several pivotal players returning from injury, providing a much-needed depth and talent infusion. Among them:

• Bucky Irving: The second-year running back is back in action after missing the last seven games due to shoulder and foot injuries. His return provides a dynamic option in the Bucs’ run game.
• Ben Bredeson: The starting left guard returns after a two-game absence due to a hamstring injury, fortifying the offensive line.
• Jamel Dean: The impactful cornerback is back after missing just one game with a hip injury, shoring up the secondary.
• Haason Reddick: The formidable outside linebacker re-joins the defense after sitting out four contests with ankle and knee issues, ready to pressure the Cardinals’ offense.
• Anthony Nelson: Overcoming a ribs injury suffered last weekend, the outside linebacker is cleared to play, adding another threat to the pass rush.

These returns inject significant confidence and capability into the Buccaneers’ lineup, setting them up for a stronger performance at home.

Arizona Cardinals Grappling with Extensive Injury List

The Arizona Cardinals, unfortunately, face a challenging Week 13 matchup compounded by a lengthy injury report. Key players ruled out include:

• Emari Demercado: The team’s leading rusher, with 241 yards this season, will be sidelined due to an ankle injury, significantly impacting their ground game.
• Will Hernandez: The starting right guard, crucial for their offensive line, has been placed on injured reserve with hip and knee ailments.
• Walter Nolen: The rookie defensive lineman, a first-round draft pick who recently scored a fumble return touchdown, is out due to injury, weakening their defensive front.

These absences will undoubtedly test the Cardinals’ depth and strategic adjustments, particularly on offense, as they strive to contend with a bolstered Buccaneers squad.

The Week 13 Matchup: A Tale of Two Teams

This Buccaneers vs. Cardinals game at Raymond James Stadium presents a compelling narrative. While the Buccaneers are rallying with key player returns, the Cardinals are battling significant roster challenges. Tampa Bay’s defense will need to be wary of Arizona’s ability to convert third downs, but the absence of key Cardinals’ offensive players, particularly in the run game, might give the Bucs an edge. This marks the start of a welcome three-game homestand for Tampa Bay, and they will be looking to capitalize on their home-field advantage against a resilient but shorthanded Arizona team.

Game Details: Don’t Miss the Action!

Mark your calendars for this pivotal Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Arizona Cardinals clash:

• Date: Sunday, November 30, 2025
• Kickoff Time: 1:00 PM ET
• Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
• Broadcast: Check your local listings for TV channels and streaming options.

Join us for all the in-game updates, highlights, and analysis as the Buccaneers aim to secure a crucial win in front of their home crowd. Get ready for an action-packed NFL Sunday!