This week, the 4-5 Bucs will look to get back on track against the 4-4 San Francisco 49ers.
After battling the defending Super Bowl champions Monday night, Tampa is taking on last year’s runner up. On Sunday, the 2023 NFC Champions will be in Florida trying to hand the Bucs a third consecutive loss. For the Tampa Bay Bucs, this game will be a chance to get back to .500. The Bucs took the Kansas City Chiefs to the wire a week ago, when Baker Mayfield was able to force overtime with a late touchdown drive.
The San Francisco 49ers of 2024 are not the 49ers of 2023. This Sunday, coming off a bye week, they will be attempting to fight their way to a winning record. So—
How can the Bucs win this game?
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
After paying their quarterback, in the offseason, Tampa Bay has seen that investment turn a profit. Baker Mayfield has not been perfect in 2024, however, surrounded by injuries and a defense that has failed him for the last month of football, Mayfield has kept the Bucs competitive in most games. Tampa’s offense has scored at least 24 points in every game since week three.
Mayfield himself, has been one of the most productive quarterbacks in football this season. Through nine games, the Tampa Bay faithful have seen their quarterback pass for 23 touchdowns and 2,389 yards. His 105.6 rating would register as a new career-high if his pace is maintained.
Mayfield’s passing, as well as his rushing ability (he has already eclipsed his previous single-season rushing high, with 8 games to go), have been the difference this year. The Bucs, with lesser performances out of their quarterback, may look more like hapless New Orleans Saints— rather than the team that has a relatively even point differential over their last five contests, despite losing four of those five.
How can the Bucs lose this game?
Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
Putting the game in the hands of their defense. Tampa Bay’s defense has been a very tough unit to watch this season. After some quality performances to start out their 2024 campaign, the group has regressed— vigorously. In the Bucs’ last five games (4 losses) Tampa Bay’s defense has allowed an astonishing 165 points. That number averages out to a disastrous 33 points per game. Through the Bucs mid-season skid, the team’s offense found ways to get down the field and score points yet still, Tampa Bay’s defense has been the third worst in football since October.
In order for the Bucs to have any hope of grinding out a grimy win, they cannot put the game in the hands of defenders who struggle to rush the passer, tackle ball carriers, and cover pass catchers.
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