Buccaneers game grades: 2017 Week 5 loss to New England
The Buccaneers offensive line had a pretty good game overall. In fact, for probably around 90% of the snaps, they did a very good job this week.
Winston did get sacked twice on the day, but he also had plenty of protection for the majority of the game.
Martin didn’t get his running yards by himself, his line opened up great holes for him on almost all of his carries.
However, there are two big moments which really drop this group’s grade for Thursday Night.
The first, was the hands to the face call on Evan Smith. On the play, Winston had scrambled his way to a crucial touchdown score.
More from The Pewter Plank
- Devin White posts cryptic message to Lavonte David on Twitter
- ESPN predicts surprising outcome to Devin White trade saga
- Updated Buccaneers depth chart after signing two players from rookie minicamp
- Todd Bowles sends clear message about Baker Mayfield’s role with Bucs
- The Athletic is wrong about Bucs one ‘must-watch’ game in 2023
However, the flag had already been thrown, and Winston immediately showed his frustration as he knew it was coming back.
The second big infraction came towards the end of the game as the clock was winding closer and closer to zeros.
As Winston got his team to the line after a pass to mid-field got them into scoring position, he called for a quick snap from center Ali Marpet.
However, for whatever reason, the timing was off between center and quarterback and three Buccaneers offensive members were actually moving prior to the snap. One being Winston.
The flag was thrown on Demar Dotson, but just watch Winston’s reaction. It was on Marpet.
This isn’t the first mistake by Marpet under center, but it was the biggest. If it continues, it may be time to discuss moving him back to guard where he was showing All-Pro potential before this season’s position switch.
Those were huge penalties, so they carry huge fines.