Here are the best offenses in the NFL:
Tier One: Chiefs, Saints
Tier Two: Seahawks, Titans, Steelers, Packers and, yes, Bucs
Despite the hiccups, the Bucs have put together a good offense. As Tony Romo recognized during the Chiefs-game broadcast, a few tweaks during the bye could push them to the top of Tier Two -- and good enough for a Super Bowl run.
1. More pre-snap motion on 1st and 2d down. Gives Brady more info about the defense, leads to higher percent success. AB, Gronk, Brate or Scotty Miller could easily serve in this role.
2. Trust RoJo on screens. His hands have been inconsistent, but when he gets the ball he can be great, as we saw against KC. It would make the Bucs more unpredictable on 1st down in particular.
3. Underneath outlet on all deep shots. Would prevent Brady from taking undue risks. (Brady and Arians need to agree that, sometimes, getting the first down instead of the touchdown is OK.)
The close losses -- KC, LA, Bears -- have come down to a few bad offensive plays. If maybe 12 plays went differently this season, then things would be very different for the Bucs now. Correct those plays and the Bucs should have an elite offense down the stretch.
There's no need to say "let's wait until next year." This offense can still be great now.
