Over $150 million was allocated to enhance the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense this offseason, and just two weeks into the season, the investment is already yielding results.
Baker Mayfield is performing like a top MVP contender, Chris Godwin is reminiscent of his peak form, and Liam Coen has revitalized the offense to levels not seen in years. The current offensive performance is the best since Tom Brady’s second year with the team, with the potential for further improvement as the season progresses.
While Dave Canales initiated the offense’s resurgence, Coen has significantly accelerated its development. After two weeks, the Buccaneers are averaging nearly 30 points per game, a stark contrast to previous seasons. Godwin has already amassed 200 receiving yards and two touchdowns, while Mayfield ranks among the NFL’s leaders in touchdown passes.
Despite this positive momentum, there remains a crucial aspect of the offense that needs improvement: the running game.
The Buccaneers have struggled with their rushing attack for nearly three years. However, there are signs that this could change soon, particularly with a favorable matchup against the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
The Broncos have allowed 287 rushing yards over their first two games and are giving up about four yards per carry. This presents an opportunity for Buccaneers’ running backs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White to finally break out after a lackluster start to the season.
Last week, against a tough Lions defense, Irving and White combined for only 40 rushing yards. Mayfield led the team in rushing with just 34 yards, highlighting issues within the run game. An injury to White compounded these problems, while an overwhelmed offensive line struggled against Detroit’s formidable front.
In Week 1, however, Irving and White demonstrated their potential by averaging 3.8 yards per carry against Dan Quinn’s defense. With a more favorable matchup ahead, fans are hopeful for a turnaround in the Buccaneers’ running game.
.@Buccaneers @BuckyIrving "triple trap; double scoop". Thats what HOFer @WarrenSapp calls it and cant execute any better. Nice afternoon for the Bucs rookies #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/RoxR4ogJwF
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) September 9, 2024
Irving stood out by leading the team in rushing with 62 yards, which included a notable 31-yard run. This is the type of performance the Buccaneers will be looking to replicate on Sunday against a Denver run defense that ranks among the league’s weakest.
Overall, the offense has been impressive this season, and the conditions are favorable for the running game to finally contribute effectively.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers inactives list for Week 2 game against Lions.
The last time the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced the Detroit Lions, they almost achieved an upset that would have sent them to the NFC Championship Game.
While the stakes are lower this time, the matchup serves as a crucial test to evaluate the growth of this Buccaneers team. There has been considerable discussion about how Tampa Bay built its roster this offseason, opting to retain key players like Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans instead of pursuing new free agents.
So far, the results have been impressive. Despite some criticism regarding their lack of new additions, Tampa Bay scored 37 points in Week 1 and displayed an offensive efficiency not seen in years. This performance will need to continue as they head to Detroit, where Baker Mayfield will be crucial due to the team’s injury challenges.
Full Inactives List for Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2 (Updated).
Before the week began, Antoine Winfield Jr. was confirmed out for several games, a significant loss since he is arguably the team’s best and most vital player. His absence will put considerable pressure on the defense.
Injured Players.
Antoine Winfield Jr. – S – Foot
Calijah Kancey – DE – Calf
uke Goedeke – OT – Concussion
Josh Hayes – CB – Ankle
Devin Culp – TE – Healthy Inactive
Jose Ramirez – LB – Healthy Inactive
Ben Stille- DT – Healthy Inactive
With Winfield, Kancey, and Goedeke out, the Buccaneers face a tough challenge against one of the top teams in the NFC. Competing without these three key players complicates matters even further.
However, this situation could turn out to be beneficial.
Sunday’s game is expected to be a high-scoring affair, which might be just what the Buccaneers need right now. In their previous encounter with Detroit, they managed only six points, but their performance in the NFC Divisional Round showcased their true potential.
Following last week’s offensive surge against the Commanders, the Buccaneers have an opportunity to demonstrate their capability in a fast-paced game. While they showed some resilience last year against Houston by playing catch-up rather than matching scores directly, they may need to adopt a more aggressive approach on Sunday if their defense remains shorthanded.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers inactives list for Week 1 game against Commanders.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are facing significant injury challenges as the season begins.
Injuries have already taken a toll on the team leading up to Week 1, with four offensive players placed on injured reserve. Both Silas Dzansi and Sua Opeta suffered season-ending injuries that removed them from the offensive line, and running back Chase Edmonds followed suit shortly after. Rakim Jarrett is on IR but designated for return, meaning he won’t be available at the start of the season either. The injury issues have now extended to the defense.
Logan Hall was ruled out on Friday, being the only player initially listed on the injury report. However, Calijah Kancey was added late to the report and is now considered questionable for the game.
Full Inactives List for Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1.
|
Player |
Position |
Injury |
|---|---|---|
|
Logan Hall |
DL |
|
|
Calijah Kancey |
DE |
Calf |
|
Devin Culp |
TE |
N/A |
|
Tyrek Funderburk |
CB |
N/A |
|
Kaevon Merriweather |
S |
N/A |
|
Royce Newman |
G |
N/A |
|
Jose Ramirez |
LB |
N/A |
The absence of Calijah Kancey is a significant setback for the Buccaneers’ defensive line. His loss will be felt acutely, especially since the line was already weakened by Logan Hall’s injury. This situation increases the pressure on Vita Vea and Greg Gaines to maintain stability.
With Kancey out, it could turn into a pivotal game for Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. He is in a crucial season for his career with the Buccaneers and has an opportunity to make an immediate impact. While he may not excel in stopping the run, he can focus on containing Jayden Daniels and assist against any tricky plays from Austin Ekeler.
Full Inactives List for Washington Commanders.
|
Player |
Position |
|---|---|
|
Sam Hartman |
QB |
|
Darrick Forrest |
S |
|
Dominique Hampton |
LB |
|
Chris Paul |
G |
|
Noah Brown |
WR |
|
Jer’Zhan Newton |
DT |
Eagles confirm what Buccaneers fans knew about Devin White all along.
Devin White’s time with the Philadelphia Eagles has been a stark contrast to his earlier success with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Since leaving Tampa Bay, White has struggled both on and off the field.
Contentious Departure from Tampa Bay
White’s departure from the Buccaneers was marked by controversy. He pushed for a top-five off-ball linebacker contract and requested a trade during the 2023 offseason, but the Bucs balked at his demands. White later admitted that his trade request altered his relationship with the team’s brass[7].
Disappointing Performance in Philadelphia
White’s performance with the Eagles has been a disappointment so far. He continues to make headlines for the wrong reasons, frequently mentioning his former team in interviews and press conferences[7]. This focus on the past has seemingly distracted him from improving his game.
Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator was blunt in his assessment of White, dismissing him as merely a backup in the team’s scheme[7]. This suggests that White has failed to adapt to the Eagles’ defensive system and is struggling to make an impact.
Validation for Buccaneers Fans
The contrast between White’s success in Tampa Bay and his struggles in Philadelphia has validated the Buccaneers’ decision to not meet his contract demands. White was a key part of the Buccaneers’ defense, recording 566 tackles and 23 sacks in his five seasons with the team[2][4]. However, his inability to replicate that success in Philadelphia has shown that the Buccaneers were right to prioritize team chemistry and fit over individual contract demands.
Conclusion
Devin White’s time with the Philadelphia Eagles has been a cautionary tale for players who prioritize money over fit and team culture. His inability to move on from his past in Tampa Bay and focus on the present has contributed to his struggles in Philadelphia. Buccaneers fans can take solace in the fact that their team made the right decision in not meeting White’s contract demands, as his performance in Philadelphia has fallen well short of his time in Tampa Bay.
Nakobe Dean was always likely to secure a starting position, given that he was drafted by the team and is three years younger. However, it seems unnecessary for Fangio to have added the phrase “even when he’s healthy.” We get it, Vic.
Interestingly, Devin White is only 26! When I checked Dean’s age—assuming he would obviously start over White due to his youth—I discovered that White is just three years older. This realization makes the situation even more disheartening. White was making All-Pro teams and Pro Bowls as a standout linebacker in his early 20s just two years ago, and now he finds himself as the ‘older’ backup to someone who has yet to deliver a strong season.
It’s a tough situation for our “not-so-old” friend Devin White. Perhaps his next opportunity with a team that offers him recognition but not a substantial contract will be with the Arizona Cardinals. You can see it coming—no matter how much one might try to avoid it, fate has a way of catching up.
4 bold predictions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2024.
Here are 4 bold predictions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2024 NFL season:
Top 5 Total Defense
The Buccaneers had the 7th ranked total defense last season, but they are poised to take a big step forward in 2024. Second-year defensive tackle Calijah Kancey looks primed for a breakout campaign alongside star tackle Vita Vea. The duo could combine for over 20 tackles for loss this year.
Veteran linebacker Lavonte David returns to orchestrate the defense, offsetting the departure of Devin White. Rookie edge rusher Chris Braswell should team up with Joe Tryon-Shoyinka to provide a strong pass rush.
The secondary remains strong with All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and an athletic group of cornerbacks. If everything clicks, this defense has the potential to finish as a top 5 unit in the league[2][5].
Chris Godwin’s 10 TDs
Wide receiver Chris Godwin has looked like his dominant 2019 self in training camp, when he posted career-highs in yards and touchdowns. With a return to his primary slot receiver role, Godwin is poised for a huge season as one of Baker Mayfield’s top targets.
While Mike Evans is usually the Bucs’ main red zone threat, Godwin could surpass his career-best 8 touchdown receptions and reach double digits for the first time. The emergence of rookie Jalen McMillan will draw coverage away from Godwin, allowing him to thrive over the middle of the field[4][7].
4th Straight NFC South Title
The Buccaneers are heavy favorites to win their 4th consecutive NFC South division title. They have won the last 3 crowns, including a 9-8 record last season[1][3][6].
Despite some offseason losses, Tampa Bay still has a talented roster led by Mayfield, Evans, Godwin and a strong defense. Playing in the weak NFC South gives them an advantage, as they are likely the most complete team in the division.
Deep Playoff Run
With a 4th straight division title, the Buccaneers will host a home playoff game as the NFC’s 4th seed. If their defense takes the leap it’s capable of and the offense continues to improve, Tampa Bay has the pieces to make a deep postseason run.
Mayfield has playoff experience from his time in Cleveland. With a healthy roster, the Bucs could make a Super Bowl push and give Mayfield his first championship. The team’s veteran leadership and championship pedigree gives them a chance to surprise some people in January[2][5][8].
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