Buccaneers: Can They Get on Track with Doug Martin and Clinton McDonald Back?

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Sep 11, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) carries the ball as Atlanta Falcons defensive back Brian Poole (34) defends during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Buccaneers won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Two Guys, Big Help

Despite two straight losses at home there is some reason for optimism with the Bucs.

Doug Martin and Clinton McDonald are two massively important cogs in the Buc machine that are poised to return this week, or at the latest next week. With Martin the Bucs can get back to their primary goal: pounding the football and allowing Jameis Winston to create big plays from playaction.

With McDonald the Bucs can deepen their rotation at defensive tackle and get a surplus in pass rush potential. McDonald will also help a run defense that has been leaky as of late. It can’t be over-stated how important both of these players are, and they should noticeably help the Bucs keep their heads above water in the second half of the season. They won’t be enough to fuel a playoff run, but with winnable games versus Chicago, Kansas City, and San Diego coming up, the Bucs should have enough fire power to get to seven or perhaps eight wins.

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