4 things the Buccaneers must do to run the table
By Ryan Doyle
Improvements along the offensive line
When Ryan Fitzpatrick opened the season as the starting quarterback, the offensive line played at its best. They gave him all the time in the world to let the receivers get open. The big bodies up front played a pivotal role in his historic start.
As the season progressed, Tampa Bay’s front has gotten worse. Injuries have played a role, but the unit is underperforming.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay signed center Ryan Jensen this offseason, making him the highest paid center in the league. He hasn’t lived up to that contract just yet. According to Pro Football Focus, Jensen’s 55.8 grade is the lowest of his career. His 52.7 run blocking grade also ranks as the lowest grade.
Add on more than a handful of penalties on the year, and it looks like the move was gross oversight by general manager Jason Licht.
In a contract year, left tackle Donovan Smith disappointed thus far. The Bucs drafted Smith after Winston in 2015, and he hasn’t developed into the trustworthy blindside protector the Bucs hoped he would become.
To make matters worse, Ali Marpet may be one of the best guards in the league. Marpet lined up right next to Smith all season, which has only highlighted the tackle’s flaws.
Now, where to start about the right side of the line…
Right tackle Demar Dotson‘s career is coming to an end. The 33-year-old has dealt with injuries in 2018, and it’s clear that he is slowing down.
Right guard is the real issue for the Bucs. Caleb Benenoch continues to get blown off the ball. It’s never a good sign when the coaching staff has to sub a player out at halftime of every game.
Tampa Bay needs their front line to start imposing their will. The Bucs are set to face dominant pass rushers over the next couple of weeks. Cameron Jordan and Demarcus Lawrence are real game wreckers.