Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 best moments from Week 3 loss to Texans
Sep 27, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Charles Sims (34) celebrates scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Mike Evans (13) during the first half against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Charles Sims dazzles with his first NFL receiving touchdown
But first, let’s talk about Charles Sims. In his brief NFL career, Sims has struggled to find any momentum rushing the ball, averaging 2.9 yards per carry. With Doug Martin taking over as the bell cow back, Sims has found his own niche on the offense through the passing game.
He makes the catch.
— NFL (@NFL) September 27, 2015
He takes it 32-yards.
He somersaults into end zone.
Charles Sims, just wow. #TBvsHOU http://t.co/3vtJRnCbra
On 2nd & 16, Sims took a screen pass 32 yards for the touchdown. After hauling in the quick pass from Winston, the second-year running back made one amazing fake jab step move on linebacker Justin Tuggle that we can see again and again and again. The juke opened up a lane for Sims who put on the afterburners, accelerating past the Texans secondary into the endzone.
While Sims will be the one to receive all the attention and glory for this touchdown, the real MVP on the play was backup center Joe Hawley.
Earlier this month, Hawley was picked up after getting released by the Atlanta Falcons. Amid concerns of adequate depth at center and the underwhelming play of Evan Smith, Hawley was signed by the Bucs. His work here should pave the way for more time, even when Smith is able to return.
Before the ball reaches Sims, Hawley (and Logan Mankins) were able to peel off into the second level.
After Sims shakes loose from Tuggle, Hawley comes in, clearing out safety Quintin Demps.
And Tuggle.
Hawley’s blocks gave Sims a running lane to work with and he took full advantage.
Another offensive lineman who deserves some credit for turning this play into a success is Ali Marpet. When Sims (in yellow) broke into the next level, Marpet (in red) slowed Jared Crick down and prevented him from getting an angle at the second-year running back as he broke free.
The NFL is a team sport and when things are clicking on all cylinders like this, it’s a thing of beauty.