Buccaneers’ terrible first half vs. Bengals is the stuff of nightmares

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are imploding in their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, going into the half down 24-10.

Things started on a high note as Tampa Bay went down the field and kicked a field goal on the opening drive before forcing a three-and-out defensively. But it was all downhill from there.

The Buccaneers are beating themselves and absolutely melting down in what could turn into a humiliating blowout loss if the Buccaneers don’t turn things around quickly. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers are getting embarrassed against the Cincinnati Bengals

The Buccaneers have turned the ball over three times in the first half. Baker Mayfield has fumbled twice, with one being returned for a touchdown, while Bucky Irving has added a fumble of his own.

On top of Mayfield’s multiple costly turnovers, Cade Otton has a bad drop. The offensive line is getting flat-out dominated and surrendering pressures and sacks.

The Bucs have moved the ball up and down the field at will, but that means nothing if they keep giving the ball away. It’s been about as ugly of a first half as it could have possibly been for Tampa Bay.

Cincinnati's first 21 points of the game all came off turnovers — and the Buccaneers are simply beating themselves with critical mistakes more than the Bengals are beating Tampa Bay.

To make matters worse, Todd Bowles’ much-anticipated new look defense is getting absolutely picked apart. The revamped pass rush hasn’t gotten much pressure, and has yet to register a single sack on Joe Burrow, who finished the first half 14-for-20 with 143 yards and a touchdown. The Bengals finished the half four-for-six on third downs.

Jacob Parrish, the team's top cornerback who was doing a great job in coverage early, left with a back injury and is questionable to return. Benjamin Morrison has replaced him for the time being.

Heading into the second half, The offense, starting with Mayfield, needs to protect the football and stop beating themselves. The defense needs to play tighter coverage and stop allowing such easy completions.

Cincinnati will receive the second half kickoff already holding a 14-point lead. Things could get away from the Buccaneers quickly if they aren’t able to come out hot in the second half and change the momentum.

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