After scoring 30 points on the Titans’ defense, which was a playoff defense in 2017, the Buccaneers’ juggernaut offense took to the practice field back in Tampa Bay for the first time since traveling to Nashville — we kid.
But, in all seriousness, the Buccaneers have put back-to-back weeks together with good offensive performances, and on Monday they were back to work to try to make it three in a row.
#Bucs first play from scrimmage was a pass to TE O.J. Howard. This has become their constant. pic.twitter.com/K1E0Slo9UY
— PewterReport (@PewterReport) August 20, 2018
It was a relatively quiet practice, as the Bucs were just in shells and not full pads, but we did see tight end O.J. Howard continue to make plays on the first-team offense.
The Bucs have been going to Howard on all occasions during training camp and during the preseason games. He’ll be heavily involved in the offense this year.
Hey look! A nice running lane for Ronald Jones! pic.twitter.com/HZGGouKKvy
— PewterReport (@PewterReport) August 20, 2018
In the run game, rookie running back Ronald Jones finally find some daylight on the nice run we saw above.
It’s been a struggle so far for Jones, and with just two preseason games left, Jones might be getting a heavy dose of carries to make sure he gains some confidence for the regular season.
#Bucs still need work on their screen game. pic.twitter.com/ULHE5VmgBZ
— PewterReport (@PewterReport) August 20, 2018
Speaking of things that were struggling, the Bucs’ offense had to sit on the sideline and watch the Titans’ screen game tear their defense apart on Saturday, and on Monday, the Bucs were working on the screen game themselves.
Screens and short passes are a key part of a vertical offense to open up things deep down the field. This is a part of the offensive gameplan that need to be effective in 2018.
RG4 to #Bucs TE Antony Auclair for the TD. pic.twitter.com/IxP9LiZ0Xn
— PewterReport (@PewterReport) August 20, 2018
As for more of the young guys, tight end Antony Auclair has been steadily improving as camp has gone on. After a quiet year in 2017, expect Auclair to be involved as the third tight end in the rotation this year, which will still see plenty of snaps.
Justin Watson speaks on his first NFL touchdown. pic.twitter.com/8BvoydzvO3
— PewterReport (@PewterReport) August 20, 2018
And, finally, rookie wide receiver Justin Watson caught his first NFL touchdown on Saturday night against the Titans. Safe to say he was excited about it, as he was all smiles recalling what he hopes is the first of many.
The Bucs will be back at it Tuesday and Wednesday before their game against the Detroit Lions on Thursday in Raymond James Stadium.