Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield said the Chicago Bears defense barked out the offense's snap count during their matchup, causing a false start penalty. Mayfield made the accusation following the game played on November 9, 2026.
According to Mayfield, Bears defenders were vocalizing the Buccaneers' cadence in an attempt to disrupt the offensive line's timing. The tactic resulted in at least one false start flag against Tampa Bay.
The incident highlights the ongoing gamesmanship between offenses and defenses regarding snap counts and cadence. NFL rules prohibit defensive players from using words or signals that simulate offensive calls, though enforcement can be difficult in loud stadium environments.
Mayfield did not specify which Bears players were involved or how many times the tactic was employed during the contest.
