Win the turnover battle, for once
This is the most important aspect of Sunday’s contest.
Currently, the Buccaneers have the worst turnover differential in the NFL. At -19, they lead the league in turnovers and have the second-lowest takeaway total in the league. That’s not exactly a recipe for success.
Even though the defensive will be without many starters, they need to find a way to get a takeaway. An interception may be too much to ask for at this point. The Bucs have caught one interception all season; they are on the verge of making history in that regard.
For the offense, Fitzpatrick needs to make smart decisions with the football. Both Buccaneers quarterbacks are prone to throw some boneheaded interceptions. Fitzpatrick cannot afford to make mistakes like this in what could become a sloppy football game in the cold weather of New Jersey.
BONUS: Attack the Giants linebackers
Offensively, the Buccaneers can take advantage of the Giants at the second level. Tampa Bay tight ends O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate should dominate the New York linebacking corps.
Starting middle linebacker Alec Ogletree is a disaster in coverage. Ogletree has a 37.0 coverage grade, according to Pro Football Focus and has allowed 39 receptions on 44 targets. Expect the Bucs to utilize this mismatch and hit Howard up the seam often.
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