Where is the Buccaneers’ Defense?

Another loss has been notched into the 2016 Buccaneers’ season. Where has been that renovated defense we have all been waiting for?

The Buccaneers just handed the lowly Los Angeles Rams another win. Once again the Bucs have gone into Raymond James Stadium and disappointed fans due to an overly hyped off-season. Although this time, they are out of excuses. Last season fans across Buc Nation, including myself, called for Lovie Smith and his defense to be cast out to sea. Now a new season and renovated scheme, the same issues have already infected the Bucs.

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The Rams entered Tampa without  scoring a touchdown in their first two games. Unfortunately, it took Case Keenum and company one drive against the Bucs. How many years now have the Bucs’ defense made below average quarterbacks look like Tom Brady?

When Mike Smith entered Tampa Bay, the majority of fans and writers rejoiced. Finally, the Bucs have a coach with a proven track record of rock solid defenses. Well… where is that? Matt Ryan, Carson Palmer, and now Case Keenum have sliced the secondary of the Bucs apart. Yes, the defense has been great against the run, but it is a passing league.

The secondary has been horrendous. The over-priced Alterraun Verner is still struggling and not to mention so is the “new” guy. This off-season the Bucs signed former Pro Bowl corner Brent Grimes to come in and give them the experience they needed on the outside. In case you have missed it, he has seen his better days. Opponents are beginning to target him every chance they get once they are into the red zone.

Then you have the rookie Vernon Hargreaves. Hargreaves has already solidified himself as a starter, and in my personal opinion has been the best secondary player so far this season. His lock down skills have managed to keep receivers in check. Admittedly, it must be quite embarrassing that your rookie is the best corner you have.

As for the safeties.. what is going on? Where is Bradley McDougald? Are players not understanding schemes, or is it the talent just not there? Chris Conte has been all over the field these past few weeks, but he also had times where he has been easily beaten over top. Take a look at this stat via Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times.

So where is the defensive upgrade? The front seven have played great, but the secondary play has.. decreased? How is that possible?

Next: Buccaneers Week 3 Winners and Losers

What do you say Buc fans? What is going on in this defense? Is it to early to start the calling card for Jabrill Peppers?