When it comes to lingering rivalries in the NFL, few can match the flavor of Baker Mayfield's triumph over the New York Jets this Sunday. The Buccaneers quarterback isn't just playing to win; he’s playing with a flair that blends competitiveness with a dash of personal vendetta.

After leading his team to another nail-biting victory, Mayfield couldn't contain his excitement. In a moment that exemplified his unmistakable personality, he remarked, "I loved it! Their defensive coordinator was the one who cut me in Carolina." That coordinator is none other than Steve Wilks.

Wilks, who served as the interim head coach for the Carolina Panthers last season, made the decision to bench Mayfield in favor of P.J. Walker. For a former number-one overall pick, being sidelined rather than released can feel like a devastating blow—especially coming from someone who is now on the opposing sidelines.

Mayfield’s raw emotions and authenticity are part of what makes him such a compelling athlete. Unlike the steely image of Tom Brady, who went from fan-favorite underdog to football's version of Ivan Drago over the years, Mayfield embodies a more relatable hero—passionate and unfiltered.

As he embraces this rivalry, one can’t help but wonder if Mayfield will carve out a legacy in Tampa similar to that of Brady, potentially guiding the Bucs to their own Super Bowl glory. With every late-game comeback, he’s not just rewriting his story, but also reshaping perceptions about his journey in the NFL.