During the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' decisive victory over the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium, an unexpected guest waddled onto the field, captivating the attention of fans and broadcasters alike.

With approximately 5:30 remaining in the third quarter, a duck made its grand entrance, coinciding with a blocked punt by the Buccaneers. J.J. Russell scooped up the ball and sprinted 23 yards for a touchdown, as the CBS broadcast cameras zoomed in on the feathered spectator.

A Buccaneers staff member quickly escorted the duck to safety, while social media erupted with amusement. The touchdown extended Tampa Bay's lead to 41-14, en route to a 48-14 final score, capped off by Jalen McMillan's second touchdown of the game.

The duck's cameo was so memorable that the NFL even updated its X account header photo to feature the bird. However, not everyone was charmed. Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan expressed his dislike for ducks in a post-game interview.

"The duck landing on the field was definitely a low point of the game," McMillan told WFLA-TV. "Ducks aren't symbols of good luck. They're strange creatures. I simply don't like them."

McMillan's aversion to ducks might stem from his college days at the University of Washington, where he faced off against the rival Oregon Ducks. While some cultures consider ducks to be lucky, McMillan clearly doesn't share that sentiment. Ironically, the duck's appearance coincided with a pivotal play that boosted Tampa Bay's fortunes.

The Buccaneers drafted McMillan in the third round of the 2024 draft, and the rookie has already made an impact, recording 32 receptions for 387 yards and seven touchdowns this season. With one more victory, the Buccaneers will secure a playoff berth.