If you’ve followed me on social media or visited my website, www.BuccaneerBlitz.com, you’ve likely seen me reference this strategy frequently. I’ve echoed this theme about the Bucs’ offense often, and it has proven effective when executed properly. This approach is rooted in the dynamics of today’s NFL, our players’ strengths, and the challenges posed by Todd Bowles’ defense’s performances.
Understanding the Strategy
The idea of throwing the ball early to enable a strong running game later has multiple interpretations:
– Softening up Defenses: Many believe it’s about disrupting run-heavy defenses that dominate early downs.
– Establishing a Lead: Others see it as a means to secure an early lead, allowing for clock management and a focus on the run game later.
I appreciate both angles.
The Modern NFL vs. The Past
Today’s NFL is all about creating space. By forcing defenses to stretch horizontally and vertically, effective passing games can open up running lanes.
In contrast, past decades saw offenses relying heavily on a strong running game to set up their passing attacks. Teams like the Washington Redskins relied on (The Hogs) powerful offensive lines, while the 49ers revolutionized the game with their West Coast Offense, using quick passes as extensions of their run game.
Bill Walsh’s influence still resonates today, as many offenses incorporate elements of his innovative strategies.
Bucs’ Offensive Personnel
This strategy is particularly well-suited for our Bucs. Our offensive line isn’t built to be road graders; instead, they excel at versatility. While Tristan Wirfs is a stand out, the rest of the line can’t dominate at the point of attack consistently (just look at last year’s goal-line stand by the Saints).
When Dave Canales took over as offensive coordinator three years ago, he emphasized a run-heavy approach, which yielded mediocre results—23rd in total offense and 20th in scoring. This wasn’t sustainable, especially with a struggling defense.
A Shift in Strategy
With Liam Coen stepping in as offensive coordinator, we saw a refreshing shift. Coen, who had experience under Sean McVay, brought a dynamic play-calling style. I remember his debut against the Commanders, where he kept throwing the ball. Every play seemed to be a pass. Play-action, screens, first down, second down, third down. And once he did start calling some run plays, there were huge running lanes. This approach led to a 37-point explosion. Even better, by the end of that game, the Bucs had balanced their plays—30 runs and 30 passes—a masterclass in offensive execution. There were many games like this throughout the season. Probably could have seen it continued through the playoffs if Bowles would have stayed at of the offensive meetings.
Unfortunately, after Coen’s departure to Jacksonville, we saw a return to more conservative play-calling under Josh Grizzard. While he’s faced criticism, he did show promise, especially in high-scoring games against the Seahawks and 49ers. But when Bowles insisted on a run-heavy strategy against Carolina, it signaled trouble.
The Bowles Effect
Bowles’ approach often emphasizes a focus on running. Running against heavy fronts and maintaining a specific run count, all of which can be an old-school mindset. And one that doesn’t align with the strengths of our current roster and can lead to more losses.
Final Thoughts
To succeed, we must set our players up for success. Defenses should be kept guessing on first downs, rather than being able to anticipate plays based on down and distance. Let Baker Mayfield make plays when the defense isn’t expecting the pass, and create opportunities for our linemen to thrive with varied play calls.
Relying on duo, gap blocking in a majority of runs isn’t sufficient for this lineup. Let’s draw inspiration from Coen’s successful tactics and not reinvent the wheel. Don’t be afraid to throw the ball early and often. If done right, the running game will thrive.