Tampa Bay Buccaneers aim for a stronger second half of the season
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently riding high at 6-2 as they head into their bye week. However, despite their strong record, there are areas where improvement is essential if they aim to solidify their position in the NFL and make a deep playoff run.
Assessing the Current Landscape
Head coach Todd Bowles has led the team effectively, but the Buccaneers have not yet reached their full potential. With tough matchups looming against the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills, and Los Angeles Rams, the team must address several key aspects to navigate through this challenging stretch of games.
Re-establishing the Run Game
One of the most pressing concerns for the Buccaneers has been their run game, which has significantly declined compared to last season. Currently, the team ranks 24th in the league for rushing yards per game and 28th in yards per carry. This lack of offensive production has made game-planning increasingly difficult.
The absence of running back Bucky Irving has been felt, as he returns from injury while struggling to average 4.0 yards per attempt this season. The Buccaneers’ offensive line has also faced its share of challenges. Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard must tap into creative playcalling to revitalize the run game, perhaps by emulating the successful strategies used by Liam Coen last year.
Despite these struggles, there is a silver lining. The Buccaneers rank sixth in the NFL in expected points added (EPA) per play during rushing attempts on third and fourth downs, with a notable 63.0% conversion rate on third downs and 80.0% on fourth downs. Much of this success can be attributed to Baker Mayfield’s ability to scramble, underscoring the need to build on this momentum and apply similar strategies throughout the entirety of the run game.
Finding a Solution at Inside Linebacker
Another critical area that needs addressing is the inside linebacker position. SirVocea Dennis has struggled significantly in coverage, allowing 484 yards, which ranks as the worst in the league according to Pro Football Focus. With nine missed tackles in coverage, he is second-worst in the NFL. His coverage grade of 29.1 is a glaring concern as the Buccaneers look to tighten up their defensive unit.
To enhance their defensive performance, the Buccaneers must either seek to bolster their linebacker corps through trades or experiment with other players, such as Deion Jones, particularly in passing situations. The urgency to rectify this liability is vital for the team’s overall success.
Maintaining Turnover Success
On a positive note, the Buccaneers have thrived in creating turnovers, a crucial aspect of winning football. Bowles emphasized the importance of having ballhawks on his roster, and the results have shown that this strategy is paying off. The Buccaneers are currently tied for fourth in the NFL with a total of 12 turnovers and boast a turnover differential of +7.
This defensive prowess was evident in their recent performance against the New Orleans Saints, where they managed to secure four turnovers. Maintaining this level of performance in the turnover department could be pivotal for the Buccaneers as they strive for consistent victories moving forward.
The Buccaneers have the pieces in place to enhance their game as they enter the second half of the season. By addressing their run game struggles, fortifying their linebacker position, and continuing to capitalize on turnovers, they can solidify their status as one of the league’s top contenders.
