The Pewter Plank
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Buccaneers Report Card Versus The Rams

By Michael Horan

Sep 25, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) works out prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) works out prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 14, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Mike Smith (right) talks with cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) works out during mini camp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 14, 2016; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Mike Smith (right) talks with cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) works out during mini camp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Defense

It has been a very slow start to Mike Smith’s Buccaneer defense. I wrote earlier this week about how this was a benchmark game for the team to see how much it’s improved since last seasons game versus Case Keenum. It’s disappointing that they appear to be struggling with the same things that they did last year, chiefly big plays and inconsistency.

The Bucs’ defense was able to put the locks on Todd Gurley but once again couldn’t stop Keenum who finished with two touchdowns and an interception. It’s especially concerning that, coming into this game, the Rams hadn’t scored a touchdown in two games.

The linebackers flashed but the rest of the groups had barely passing grades, and outright F’s in some cases. Let’s take a closer look.

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