Buccaneers: Who Steps Up to Lead a Playoff Run?

3 of 8

Nov 27, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers free safety Bradley McDougald (30) runs past Seattle Seahawks Seattle George Farmer (39) after he intercepts a pass during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 14-5. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Bradley McDougald

With the Bucs appearing ready to make a run at the NFC south they’re going to need contributions from more than just their star players. Their role players will need to step up as well. Bradley McDougald is one in particular. McDougald has had an up and down year much like his young career, but as of late he’s begun to step up and make plays more consistently. Against the Seahawks McDougald made several big plays, including the game sealing interception.

McDougald is part of a maligned Buccaneer safety group but the teams defensive turnaround has been largely because of improved play there. With Philip Rivers, Drew Brees (twice), Dak Prescott and Cam Newton left on the schedule the pass defense will be heavily tested, and particularly with Conte out, the play-making responsibility in the deep secondary will fall primarily to McDougald. If McDougald plays the remainder of the season like he has the last couple weeks the Bucs playoff odds will look much better.

Home/Bucs News