This is it. If the Bucs lose this game, hope will fade, and players will lose whatever faith they have left, in the coaching staff. There’s been plenty of effort, but you can have all the determination in the world, and it won’t matter without a clear path to success.
BUCS WIN IF…
Bucs on Offense: The path to victory is straightforward. Let Baker Mayfield throw on early downs like we did in the first six games of the season. Get him into a rhythm so he can find his mojo when most needed on third downs.
Stop fixating on a specific play count; take what the defense gives you. If we’re moving the ball and scoring, the run and pass plays will balance out. As I’ve said before: “Throw early, so we can run late.”
Bucs on Defense: It’s simple. If Todd Bowles is running this defense, he excels at one thing: bringing the heat. Yes, offenses have figured it out, but stick to what you know—blitz hard and often. If the Dolphins and their rookie quarterback can beat it, at least Bowles will have done what he does best.
DOLPHINS WIN IF…
Dolphins on Offense: Let Quinn Ewers throw on first down. With our run blitzes early, there will be opportunities for their speedy players to find open spaces. Set him up for success.
Dolphins on Defense: Don’t give the Bucs anything easy. Their offense lacks confidence right now, so don’t be the team that allows them to regain their mojo. Force Baker to throw underneath—he’s not the most patient quarterback—and keep Bucky Irving contained.
FINAL WORD
If the Bucs can’t secure a win against a team looking for a good draft position, then they don’t deserve a spot in the playoffs.
Prediction: Bucs win 26-16
