Mike Evans wary of the tough challenge of facing Marshon Lattimore again: “Got to be at my best”

Mike Evans expressed his determination to be at his best ahead of facing his longtime rival, Marshon Lattimore, acknowledging the high-stakes.

Mike Evans wary of the tough challenge of facing Marshon Lattimore again: “Got to be at my best”

Mike Evans and Marshon Lattimore (Via Mcon Rasayan/DC News Now)

Mike Evans is coming off the most breathtaking performance of his career as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers qualified for the playoffs. However, with the announcement of their next opponents, a sense of wariness has settled over the wide receiver. 

With a matchup scheduled against the Washington Commanders in the wild-card round of the playoffs, the Bucs star wide receiver is set to face his long-standing rival, Marshon Lattimore, who was acquired by the Commanders this offseason from the New Orleans Saints. Lattimore and Evans are known for their infamous rivalry, which oftentimes has resulted in in-game fights. 

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As Evans knows that Lattimore’s presence on the field will add intensity to their rivalry, he expressed his determination to be at his best, acknowledging the high stakes of the upcoming encounter. He also emphasized the need for his team to be disciplined since the Commanders have improved into a “better team,” compared to their 2024 season opener. 

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I’ve just got to be at my best. I’ve got to give my best because he’s a really good player. Obviously, we’ve had a lot of really good matchups. If he’s playing, I look forward to the matchup.

Mike Evans said

Despite the best efforts by the five-time Pro Bowler, his encounters with the former Saints cornerback have resulted in suspensions, ejections, and fines– which the Bucs certainly cannot afford in the opening game of the postseason as it would eliminate them from the Super Bowl contention straightaway. 

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Marshon Lattimore ready to put rivalry against Mike Evans aside for playoff glory

Ahead of the thrilling matchup, Lattimore also echoed the similar sentiments as his rival, Evans. Given their notorious encounters that have proven costly for their respective teams, Lattimore is not looking forward to adding more drama to the narrative, especially since this matchup is in the playoffs. 

Mike Evans against Marshon Lattimore
Mike Evans against Marshon Lattimore (Via NBC Sports)

I’m going out there to try and help my team. All the other stuff, if it comes, it comes…I want to be physical. I want to be physical with anybody. The extra level because of the past — it’s not really about the mental game. You’re going to know I’m here.

Marshon Lattimore said via The Athletic’s Ben Standig
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Besides their altercations, Evans’ production has been dramatically below average in all his encounters against Lattimore. In the 12 times they faced off against each other, the Bucs wideout has merely recorded 309 yards, 16 catches, and three touchdowns.