Buccaneers game grades: 2017 Week 2 win over Chicago Bears
RECEIVERS AND TIGHT ENDS
The Buccaneers had to expect some growing pains between new star receiver DeSean Jackson and their quarterback.
However, we’re just looking at Jackson in this segment, and man was he good this week.
Twice, at least, the speed veteran was able to get completely behind the Bears secondary, but twice he was missed by his passer.
It wasn’t all bad though. In fact, Jackson and Winston looked pretty good considering this was their first time working extended minutes with each other.
Three catches for 39-yards may not leap of the fantasy pages, but it’s a solid start for this duo. Expect even more, and even better play, moving forward.
Mike Evans did what Mike Evans does. Putting it simply, he dominated.
Despite the fact his quarterback wasn’t all that accurate in Week 2, the former A&M and current NFL star brought in seven passes for 93 total yards and one score.
Mike Evans touchdown catch as the #Bucs defeated the #Bears in Week 2.https://t.co/5s6V4wSLhf
— David Harrison (@DHarrison82) September 17, 2017
His was the first trip to the endzone in 2017, but it won’t be the last for this talented receiving group.
Adam Humphries made two catches in this one, gaining 18-yards for his team.
A total of three tight ends made catches in this one. Veteran starter Cameron Brate had two catches for 24-yards while second-year man Alan Cross had one for six.
First-round rookie O.J. Howard brought in his first career pass catch as well. The 17-yard catch and run helped the Buccaneers secure the victory, and I’m sure we can all expect even more from him moving forward.
The notable receiver missing from the stat sheet is rookie Chris Godwin.
Coming out of Penn State, Godwin has made some noise in camp during the preseason, but really didn’t show too much by way of production on the field.
It was more of the same in Week 2, but not because he didn’t have a shot.
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With the Bucs driving in the third quarter, Winston tried to hit the young receiver with a quick pass which would have gone for a score.
However, Godwin wasn’t fast enough getting his head turned around, and he was unable to bring it in.
Winston’s 18 completions got spread between seven different players, and really helped the team gain and take advantage of early momentum.
The group as a whole did well, and has much more to look forward to.