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

Jan 3, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) stiff arms Carolina Panthers cornerback Josh Norman (24) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) stiff arms Carolina Panthers cornerback Josh Norman (24) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Vernon Hargreaves (28) reacts after he got called for a penalty against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 43-28. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 3, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Vernon Hargreaves (28) reacts after he got called for a penalty against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Atlanta Falcons defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 43-28. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Too Little Too Late

The fact that Doug Martin and Clinton McDonald are back to being full participants in practice is a great sign. They’ve both been missed on their sides of the ball and both will provide a much-needed boost.

However, many Bucs fans – myself included – appear to have believed this team was closer than it actually is. Secondary and pass rush issues are still plaguing this team defensively. No legitimate threat, especially one with speed, opposite Mike Evans is plaguing this team.

Although Martin can provide a spark and McDonald can bolster the pass rush, you have to think their contributions are good for one, maybe two, additional wins. Unless the Bucs run the table, this season appears to be yet another lost one. It’s great to have them back, but it likely won’t make a huge difference for the rest of 2016.

James Yarcho