Buccaneers: Studs and duds from win over Eagles
By Ryan Doyle
The Studs (Pt. 2)
CB Ryan Smith
Most of the time, Ryan Smith takes the brunt of criticism from the Buccaneers fan base. Thursted into the starting lineup because of injuries, Smith had his best game as a Buccaneer.
He had a pair of pass breakups and seven solo tackles. Smith’s most significant contributions came on special teams. He made huge tackles on a couple of punt returns to stick Philadelphia in poor field position.
Out of all the cornerbacks, Smith probably had the best day. None of the corners locked down their matchup, but Smith’s sure tackling limited the big plays.
OC Todd Monken
The Todd Monken era has begun.
While the Buccaneers went through an offensive lull in the first half, it wasn’t Monken’s doing. His play calls had receivers open down the field, but the players couldn’t execute. The only thing that could slow Tampa Bay down was themselves. Offensive drives stalled because of penalties drops and a pair of turnovers.
Monken and the offense kept grinding and found their groove again. It’s time to start addressing the potential of an exceptional offense this season. Scoring 75 points in two games is no joke.
DE Jason Pierre-Paul
Jason Pierre-Paul faced a familiar foe on Sunday. During his time with the New York Giants, ‘JPP’ gave the Eagles offensive line nightmares before the game.
Pierre-Paul took advantage when Philadelphia’s Jason Peters suffered an injury. Pierre-Paul recorded a sack and four QB hits on the day. He was by far the most consistent pass rusher and certainly had extra motivation when lining up against an old rival.
Ryan Fitzpatrick's magical ride continued. dark. Next
Pierre-Paul will be the Buccaneers’ primary pass rusher all season long. If he can put together more performances like this one, general manager Jason Licht may have committed thievery.