Buccaneers vs. 49ers takeaways: Finally, it all comes together
By Ryan Doyle
No answers at right guard
For weeks, Buccaneers fans have clamored for guard Alex Cappa to get playing time. Well, they ate their words on Sunday. Cappa struggled in his first NFL action. A healthy scratch through 10 games, the coaching staff didn’t feel that Cappa was ready to contribute.
Shocker, the coaching staff turned out to be right.
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Remember, Benenoch is the team’s worst graded blocker in both the run and the pass this season, according to Pro Football Focus. If Cappa couldn’t perform better than that, the Bucs have a problem.
Cappa is only a rookie, so he may still be the long-term answer at right guard, but it might be smart for the Buccaneers to look for options in free agency. Aside from Ali Marpet, the interior of the Tampa line hasn’t impressed.
Cairo “Money” Santos
What a game it was for Tampa Bay. They took the ball away, Winston didn’t toss an interception, and their kicker made every kick.
Cairo Santos is becoming a star for the Buccaneers. OK, maybe star is a little strong, but what a start for the new Bucs kicker. He nailed another two field goals and three extra points to continue his perfect streak.
It’s too early to tell if the curse is over, but Licht should prepare to lock Santos into a deal for next season.