It’s still early in the season, but the excitement is already through the roof! This week, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers face off against the New York Jets, and it’s shaping up to be a thrilling match. Here’s what each team needs to do to secure the win.
BUCS WIN IF…
Bucs on Offense:
How is this offense still putting up points? With our offensive line decimated by injuries, it looks like we won’t have a single starter playing in their original position this week—only Graham Barton is scheduled to play. Fingers crossed for Emeka Egbuka’s health to add another receiving weapon. This week will require Josh Grizzard’s best work.
We need to establish a successful running game early. The Jets boast a formidable defensive front four, which could give Baker Mayfield trouble if we find ourselves in too many third-and-long situations. It’s crucial to not only run effectively but also to throw on early downs. I’d love to see more intermediate routes this week; last week’s offense relied too heavily on passes behind the line of scrimmage or long sideline throws. Let’s mix in some crossing patterns and use mesh routes against their man coverage to help get our guys open.
Bucs on Defense:
Given our past experiences, I’m concerned that our defense may underestimate backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor and think they can overwhelm him with pressure. Historically, that approach hasn’t worked well for us. I actually wish Justin Fields was playing; he’s had a tough time against Bowles’ schemes and is 0-2 against the Bucs in his career. Bowles’ defense would have effectively contained Fields from making plays with his legs.
A Bucs win might hinge on our defense keeping the Jets out of the end zone. This is a game where we need a defensive stand. Let Haason Reddick focus on rushing the passer rather than dropping into coverage. We should play more 2-deep and let our safeties make plays. I’d love to see Tykee Smith or Antoine Winfield snag an interception, and I expect Vita Vea and Reddick to each get a sack. Lavonte David needs to step up this week—making tackles in the open field, getting a key sack, running sideline to sideline, and securing that easy interception if he gets another opportunity to close the game.
JETS WIN IF…
Jets on Offense:
If I were the Jets, I’d throw the ball every time the Bucs show 3-4 personnel. Quick grass routes can counter zone blitzes, and working in play-action can disrupt our linebackers. They need to get the Bucs out of sync and then let Breece Hall use his speed to attack the defense. They might only need 17+ points to pull off the upset.
I’m not sure the Bucs have anyone who can consistently keep up with Garrett Wilson. Target him often and move the pocket to give Tyrod Taylor more time and running options. If Wilson can rack up 100+ yards and a touchdown, the Jets could pull this game off.
Jets on Defense:
The Jets must avoid giving up big plays and force the Bucs to grind out every yard. They should apply pressure with their front four while keeping seven in pass coverage. This week won’t be easy for the Bucs to sustain long drives without incurring penalties or giving up sacks that lead to punts or field goals.
The Jets shouldn’t be overly aggressive in attacking Baker. Apply pressure but be careful not to go for big hits—let him run to you. They should double-team Mike Evans, as the other receivers (due to injuries) likely won’t be overly significant threats.
FINAL WORD:
I try not to predict with my heart, but this game feels like a hopeful one. We are beat up, and in the NFL, there are no guarantees. The Bucs have a history of letting backup quarterbacks shine against Bowles’ defense, and Tyrod Taylor is no slouch—he can win games. With our injury situation, it’s tough to predict how this will unfold. Nevertheless, I believe we’ll find a way to get the “W.”
Prediction: Bucs 23 – 20 (Sticking with my original pick)