The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with their playoff hopes on the line, took care of business with the Seattle Seahawks, steamrolling to a 38-15 win. The Bucs used an efficient passing performance from Josh Freeman, and some timely second half rushes from LeGarrette Blount to manhandle Seattle at home. Freeman accounted for all five Tampa Bay touchdowns, four of which went to Mike Williams and Kellen Winslow.
The Seahawks, playing without Matt Hasselbeck for much of the game, were unable to get anything going on offense, only finding the end zone again after a first quarter touchdown in the fourth quarter. Charlie Whitehurst came on in relief, but disappointed, leaving the Seahawks with few options at quarterback for the future. Despite the loss, the Seahawks will play for the NFC West title, and playoff berth, next weekend at Qwest Field against the Rams.
Whitehurst finished the day with 66 yards on 11 passes. Hasselbeck, for comparison, was 3-4 for 24 yards and a rushing touchdown in limited play. Marshawn Lynch led the Seahawks on the ground with 53 yards on 14 carries. Leon Washington found the end zone for Seattle's only other score on a 16 yard run.
Freeman was prolific, passing for 237 yards and five touchdowns on the day. Kellen Winslow led the Tampa Bay receivers with seven catches for 98 yards and two touchdowns. Mike Williams, the Tampa Bay version, added two touchdowns as well. Blount finished the day with 164 yards on 16 carries, but didn't find the end zone.
Seattle is ensured a losing record with the loss, falling to 6-9 on the season. Even with the horrific record, the Seahawks still have a chance at the playoffs should they beat the St. Louis Rams next week. The Bucs kept their slim playoffs hopes alive with the win, improving to 9-6 on the season.