Plug ’em and play ’em
Finally we get to the Tampa Bay defense, which has been darn impressive through two games this season. Under new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, the Bucs have allowed an average of 15.5 points per game and have totaled four sacks, one interception, two fumble recoveries and a defensive score.
What is most impressive is that while they are averaging 15.5 points surrendered per game, they have allowed just one offensive touchdown this season. In week one against the 49ers, it was two Winston pick-sixes that fluffed the scoreboard, then in week two they surrendered all field goals, while the offense gave up two points with a safety.
With the Giants starting a rookie quarterback who has only attempted four passes so far it should be a good day for the Bucs D. We saw the defense make Christian McCaffrey look like an average Joe last week, and the hope is they do the same this week against star running back Saquon Barkley.
I am expecting the Giants to be playing from behind later in the game which means more and more pass attempts for Jones in his NFL debut. If the defense can limit the G-Men run game and put pressure on the rookie, there is a ton of opportunity for a huge defensive performance.
I just dropped the Baltimore Ravens’ defense for the Bucs in one of my money leagues so I will be rooting harder than ever for the Tampa Bay defense this week. For once, the Buccaneers’ defense is a solid streaming option this week against the struggling and depleted Giants.