Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Daily Snaps: July 7, 2015
Good morning, Bucs fans. Hope that everyone had a fun and safe Fourth of July weekend. Now that a new week is getting underway, let’s take a look at the fresh set of Daily Snaps we have for you. Let’s get started.
Over at Pewter Report, staff writer Zach Shapiro continues their Bucs Critical Camp Question series. Today’s article talks about the team’s deepest position, and to no one’s surprise, it’s defensive tackle. With franchise player Gerald McCoy and last year’s free agent signing in Clinton McDonald locking up the starting spots, the Bucs already have a strong tandem that can rule any interior offensive line. Add the signing of former Cowboy Henry Melton and the rising Akeem Spence, and you have four defensive tackles that can start on almost any team in the NFL.
Next up, ESPN’s NFL Nation’s group of NFC South bloggers debated on who had the worst offensive line in the division. To put it bluntly, three out of the four writers said that the Bucs’ line was in the mix as the division’s worst line. The drafting of offensive tackle Donovan Smith and guard Ali Marpet should help in time if they are coached up correctly. But that’s not an immediate fix. It could be a long rookie season for quarterback Jameis Winston if his line doesn’t protect him.
Jun 4, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive lineman Ali Marpet (74) works out at One Buc Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
There are a couple of articles over on Bleacher Report that should grab the attention of most Bucs fans. NFL National Lead Writer Matt Bowen breaks down how Winston can be the most effective in new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter’s system. Bowen discusses how Winston should work the seams as well as get the ball to his hot reads when under pressure. Furthermore, Winston’s skill set should help him establish a strong connection with Mike Evans, due to the sophomore receiver’s size and ability to create leverage on balls over the middle.
The second article on Bleacher Report worth taking a look at today is Luke Easterling’s piece on five dark horse candidates to make the team’s final 53 man roster this coming season. He mentions these five candidates: cornerback Brandon Dixon, defensive end T.J Fatinikun, punter Spencer Lanning, linebacker Orie Lemon and running back Joey Iosefa. All five have a decent chance of making the roster, especially if they show in camp that they all have something to contribute. Keep an eye on Lanning. He’s younger, cheaper and had a better season last year than incumbent punter Michael Koenen. It’s more than possible that the team will go with Lanning next season.
Lastly, we have an article written by NFL.com’s Kevin Patra on Bucs legend Ronde Barber’s thoughts about Winston. Barber said that Winston has “zero fear” and plays with a “gunslinger mentality.” He compared the Bucs’ signal caller to his predecessor at Florida State, the Bills’ EJ Manuel, and there is a big difference in their play styles. This is why Jameis has a much better chance at being a franchise quarterback than Manuel ever will.
Have a great Tuesday, Bucs fans, and keep an eye out this week for more content here at The Pewter Plank as we get ready for training camp. See everyone tomorrow afternoon for a new set of Daily Snaps.