The Tampa Bay Buccaneers game against the Cleveland Browns was temporarily suspended Sunday after inclement weather moved into the Tampa area.
Cleveland held a 23-19 lead with two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter when play was stopped at Raymond James Stadium.
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers game paused late in the fourth quarter
The Browns confirmed the suspension in an official game update at 4:06 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The update cited inclement weather in the Tampa area and confirmed Cleveland’s four-point advantage.
| Team | Score | Game status |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Browns | 23 | Leading |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 19 | Trailing |
| Time remaining | 2:00 | Fourth quarter |
The official team update did not provide a restart time. The game remains unfinished, meaning the 23-19 score is not a final result.
Why the Buccaneers game is drawing attention
The matchup is Tampa Bay’s 2026 home opener and pits two teams that entered Week 2 with 0-1 records. Both clubs were trying to avoid an 0-2 start after losing their season openers.
The Buccaneers opened the season with a 33-27 road loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, while Cleveland began its campaign with a 34-10 defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Sunday’s game also marked Baker Mayfield’s first appearance against the Browns as Tampa Bay’s quarterback. Cleveland selected Mayfield first overall in the 2018 NFL Draft before he later moved to Carolina and eventually joined Tampa Bay.
What happens next
Officials will determine when play can safely resume. Fans following the matchup should check the official Buccaneers game centre and Browns game centres for the next update, as the final score and team records cannot be confirmed until the remaining two minutes are played.
The result will have early significance for both clubs. A Cleveland win would move the Browns to 1-1, while a Tampa Bay comeback would give the Buccaneers their first victory of the season.
The Buccaneers are scheduled to host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3 on Sunday, September 27, according to the official 2026 schedule. Cleveland’s next game is also part of the NFL’s Week 3 schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Buccaneers vs. Browns game suspended?
The game was temporarily suspended because of inclement weather in the Tampa area.
What is the score of the Browns vs. Buccaneers game?
The Browns lead the Buccaneers 23-19 with two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
Is 23-19 the final score?
No. The game was suspended before the final two minutes were completed, so the score is not final.
Where are the Buccaneers and Browns playing?
The Week 2 game is being played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.
What was the Buccaneers record entering Week 2?
Tampa Bay entered the game with a 0-1 record after losing 33-27 to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
Fact-Checked: Key score, timing, suspension and weather details were checked against official Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers game updates.
Disclaimer: This live report may change when officials announce a restart time or the game resumes.