Aug 24, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) runs past Cincinnati Bengals free safety Reggie Nelson (20) for a 30 yard gain during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Remember when we told you not to hit the panic button after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 26-16 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last weekend? What a difference a week makes, huh?
On Monday, the Buccaneers looked like a much improved team at nearly facet of the game. After a shaky debut, Jameis Winston was more decisive with the ball, firing the pigskin all around the field with exceptional accuracy.
Led by the newly-acquired DE George Johnson, the Bucs defensive line was actually putting pressure on the quarterback to the tune of four sacks, compared to just one in their preseason opener.
Then, there were players who built off a stellar preseason contest against the Bengals and continued to show more of the same in Week 2. Following an above average outing, Doug Martin looked even better and further solidifying himself as the Week 1 regular season starter against the Tennessee Titans.
Meanwhile, on the defensive side of the ball, Kwon Alexander rewarded the Buccaneers’ coaching staff for making him the team’s starting middle linebacker. In limited action, Alexander had a team-high four tackles last night and currently leads the team in that category after two weeks with eight.
Many people don’t put too much into preseason numbers, but for those that do, the Buccaneers are currently tied for the league lead in takeaways (6) and turnover margin (+5), according to the Tampa Bay Times’ Greg Auman. It’s a step in the right direction for a team heading into their second season under head coach Lovie Smith and his Tampa 2 scheme.
There’s plenty to discuss about last night’s win, which is why you should check out our five key takeaways post. But, if you want to see the most impressive moments, you’ve come to the right place. So, without further ado, let’s make like Famous Jameis and dive right in.