With the Eagles' loss to the Giants on Thursday night, this game is for first place in the NFC! Both the Bucs and 49ers sit at 4-1, overcoming significant injuries to get here. Here’s what each team needs to do to secure a big win.
BUCS WIN IF…
Bucs on Offense: The Bucs offense found their rhythm against the Seahawks last Sunday. Offensive Coordinator Josh Grizzard dialed up a variety of screen passes, took deep shots when available, and found a running game during the final drive, which helped kill the clock and set up the game-winning field goal.
Can they replicate that success against the 49ers this week? I think so. The Seahawks have a stronger defense than the 49ers. The Bucs should find more success running the ball against this defense. If Grizz can stick to the mantra of “Throw early, so you can run late,” they should keep San Francisco off balance and put up some solid points.
Bucs on Defense: Kyle Shanahan is a coach that Todd Bowles hasn’t quite figured out yet. Since Bowles joined the Bucs as Defensive Coordinator in 2019, Tampa Bay hasn’t beaten the 49ers.
We can’t rely solely on blitzing to get the job done this week. Shanahan and quarterback Mac Jones will be ready for that. Can Yaya Diaby and/or Haason Reddick step up? Sir Vocea Dennis needs to play smart; Shanahan used to exploit Devin White’s undisciplined moments in the past. Dennis must be where he’s supposed to be.
49ers WIN IF…
49ers on Offense: Shanahan can design a running game against our tough run defense, but my biggest concern is Mac Jones picking us apart over the middle. We can bring all the blitzes we want, but Jones will hold the ball until the last second to deliver a completion. He’s the type of quarterback that can exploit Bowles’ defense, similar to Kirk Cousins. He’ll be patient and knows someone will eventually find space in our soft zones. He’s willing to take that hit to get the pass off.
While our defense did a good job containing Christian McCaffrey last year, he has hurt us too many times in the past. Last year, he was not at full health when he played against us. Plus, it doesn’t help that George Kittle might be back from injury this week.
49ers on Defense: Not having Nick Bosa on the field is a relief for the Bucs, but the 49ers still have plenty of weapons on their defensive front. Linebacker Fred Warner is always a challenge for the Bucs. His speed and anticipation are second to none.
Can Renardo Green slow down rookie sensation, Emeka Egbuka? It will help them now that Chris Godwin, Jr. will be out for this week. And can rookie, Mykel Williams provide some pressure on Baker Mayfield. That may be the difference.
FINAL WORD: The Bucs get the advantage of having their opponent travel cross-country this week. Let’s hope we can capitalize on that!
PREDICTION: Bucs win 27-20 (4-1 in Bucs predictions)