It was a frustrating loss for the Bucs in the divisional playoffs against the Rams. After coming back from being down 27-3 to tie the game, Tampa Bay’s defense surrendered two big plays to lose, 30-27. But even in the midst of a loss, a Bucs playoff legend continued to emerge. Wide receiver Mike Evans caught eight passes for 119 yards and a fourth quarter touchdown.

The Pro Bowler beat Jalen Ramsey deep for the 55-yard score, cutting the deficit to 27-20. It was a great second half performance by Evans, but the star receiver did struggle over the first 30 minutes. Evans fell down on a couple routes and dropped one pass on a three-and-out possession. On 16 targets, Evans caught only eight. As great as he was, the Bucs captain was critical of himself after the performance.

“Just really disappointed in myself,” Evans said. “Early on I didn’t make enough plays. I’m slipping, dropped a pass. Didn’t get enough separation early in the first half. Wish I could have played better. Just not being under my feet. Just didn’t come out with enough juice. I felt better in the second half. We played better in the second half. Just didn’t get the job done.”

Bucs WR Mike Evans – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Evans is always his own worst critic, but Sunday’s comments felt especially pointed. Yes, Evans could have played better, especially in the first half when Tom Brady was taking on the Rams by himself. But without Evans, the Bucs don’t come back in that game. Afterward, Evans called it the “toughest loss” of his career.

“We have a lot of great players,” Evans said. “A lot of great leaders and veterans on this team. Like I said, we were making plays at the end. Getting turnovers, scoring points, making big plays. When we played with a sense of urgency, it was hard for us to be stopped. We just fell short. “

The Bucs may have fallen short of their goals, but Evans star continues to shine in the postseason. He’s now posted three 100-yard games in six postseason contests, while scoring four times. And none of that includes the five penalties he drew in the Super Bowl last year. Already the greatest offensive player in franchise history, Evans simply continues to add to his legacy every season.