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Buccaneers: Five players to watch when Tampa Bay hosts Jets Week 10

By Sean Eck

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 8: Vincent Jackson #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs the ball against the New York Jets during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 8, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 8: Vincent Jackson #83 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers runs the ball against the New York Jets during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 8, 2013 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – OCTOBER 22: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 22, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

O.J. Howard

Howard on the season has 14 receptions on 22 targets good for a 63% catch rate.  He has been quietly productive all season long when he is on the field.  With the lack of Mike Evans, this game Howard, as well as Brate, could be asked to do more in the passing game.  As mentioned before Fitzpatrick has a solid check-down game and having two starting-caliber tight ends gives the Buccaneers signal caller options when the pressure is on.

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Reguarding that pressure, they might run more two tight ends sets to alleviate the pressure and help block the Jets defense.  This could work out to support both the passing and rushing game as Howard and Brake are above average blockers at the tight end spot and can seal the edge for Doug Martin if he can turn the corner.

While Howard has still not performed to some of the other first-round offensive stars this season, he has had moments of greatness.  He simply needs more opportunities to multiply those moments.  This could be the game we remember and mark down as the emergence of the future of the tight end position.

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