Buccaneers vs. Lions takeaways: Can the Bucs’ offense be stopped?

A banged-up offensive line steps up

Although the offensive line struggled late in the second half, the big bodies up front did a great job in the first half. With rain pouring down and the team already down a quarterback for the first three games of the year, the safety of the quarterbacks was a primary concern.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Without six linemen, including three starters (Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet, Caleb Benenoch), Fitzpatrick and Winston were kept safe. Winston did scramble on a few occasions, but none of the field generals took a big hit until Allen fell victim to a few vicious blows near the final whistle.

For the offense to look so strong despite having key starters sitting on the sideline was a complete surprise. Before the game, most of the fanbase was hoping most of the starters would have a shorter outing due to the injuries up front.

Running back rotations is set

There’s no doubt that Peyton Barber will be the number one running back. Ronald Jones and Jacquizz Rodgers will fill in right behind him. The last spot will belong to Shaun Wilson, who saw plenty of action in the return game and had a few snaps on offense.

Dare Ogunbowale received plenty of time in the fourth quarter and will likely be one of the top candidates for the practice squad.