As the Bucs’ players and coaches spoke to the media in preparation of their matchup against the Ravens this Sunday, much of the talk revolved around the Bucs’ defense and the Raven’s newly-named starting quarterback, Lamar Jackson.

While still giving up gaudy numbers on any given week, the Bucs’ defense has shown signs of life under defensive coordinator Mark Duffner, despite a record-setting pace for yards and points allowed through the first half of the season. Much of the improvement has stemmed from their ability to rush the passer and get sacks. Duffner spoke about what’s allowed them to improve that push up front.

Stopping the run will be the priority when facing Baltimore, as they boast the league’s fourth-best mark at 134.5 yards per game on the ground, but containment and pressure is not only a key component to stopping a quarterback that has the kind of mobility Jackson has, but it would also force a rookie quarterback — with only two games under his belt — to rush decision making and possibly play into the hands of a Buccaneer defense that’s compiled nine sacks and seven interceptions over the past three games.

The Bucs’ biggest performer on that unit, and possibly the team’s best player through 13 games, has been Jason Pierre-Paul. Duffner went on to speak about Pierre-Paul and his ability.

“[Pierre-Paul] has really been a very, very strong contributor to our defense,” Duffner said. “He’s such an effort-filled player.”

Speaking with Pierre-Paul, the defensive lineman was asked if he’s ever played against a quarterback like Lamar Jackson. His answer, to the credit of Jackson, was just Michael Vick. Pierre-Paul went on to elaborate about the comparison and talk about Jackson’s upside and the unique skill set he brings to an offense.

Another question that proved prevalent in the locker room was about the team’s motivation to keep giving 100% each week while the team sits at 5-8 and appears to be on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoffs. Pierre-Paul and wide receiver Chris Godwin both asserted that the process and preparation stays the same.

Up last at the podium was head coach Dirk Koetter, who was asked if there’s much of a difference in preparation now that Jackson is the clear cut starter. Koetter pointed out that he’s been starting over the past four weeks, so they have tape on him to dissect.

Koetter was then asked if there’s another QB that Jackson reminded him of, and he didn’t need to look far from the Bucs own division for an answer.

Lastly, the news came out that the Bucs would be playing a game in either London or Mexico next season. Koetter’s been through that deal before, and answered how he feels about it, but is making sure his focus is on this week’s game.

Koetter was particular in saying “the Bucs” instead of “we” when referring to the situation next year. Is this an indication that maybe he won’t be around next year, or are we diving into it too much? Stay tuned for tomorrow’s practice to see what happens next.