Before anyone says it: Yes it’s the preseason.
Were good? Alright.
The Bad.
Tampa Bay’s defense in 2018 was one of the worst in the league, worst in NFL history and honestly, worst I’ve ever seen. While Tampa’s prolific offense scorched teams, their defense was giving those points right back. The scheme was questionable. Corners were back 10 yards off the line of scrimmage constantly. Tampa’s defensive mindset under ex- defensive coordinator Mike Smith was simply: prevent. Prevent anything from getting behind you. Instead they gave up massive amounts of yards, nearly 400 a game, and didn’t play to their players strengths. For Example: The Buccaneers have multiple press corners who couldn’t jam and get their hands-on receivers at the line of scrimmage. In games Tampa should have run in a blowout, teams hung around and prompted another 5-11 season.
New Regime
During the offseason Tampa brought in quarterback whisperer Bruce Arians and with him he brought defensive minded Todd Bowles with him. Bowles brings an aggressive 3-4 defense that mixes in linebacker and corner blitzes while masking zone and man coverage.
Traditionally, the Bucs have been a 4-3 defensive front. To prepare for the switch the Bucs brought in more linebackers and used three draft picks on the secondary and brought in Ndamukong Suh.
While the new defense seemed to fly around the field in training camp, the real tests would come during live games. Preseason would hold many questions and some answers for this new Buccaneer defense. Would the switch to 3-4 pay off? Would these new players be able to pick up the new defense in time?
The Results Are In
Through the first three weeks of preseason, the Buccaneers have only continued to get better. In each game, they’ve forced a turnover. Week one in Pittsburgh, the growing pains were apparent as the Bucs gave up 340 yards and 30 points. They would go on to lose to Steelers in a close one 30-28. The Steelers completed 6-12 third down conversions. In week two against the Miami Dolphins at home, the Buccaneers tightened their grasp and held the Fitzpatrick led Dolphins to a mere 14 points and 280 yards on 66 offensive plays.
The defense amounted five sacks and rookie corner Jamel Dean also had an interception late in the game but had another he dropped earlier. Miami would convert only 2 of their 16 third down plays. Then, last week, the Buccaneers held a Baker Mayfield led Browns team to a mere 141 yards of offense on 54 plays. The Browns only converted 2 of their 14 third downs, and safety Jordan Whitehead nabbed a pick off Mayfield. Week three of preseason is where starters see an increase in reps, so it was Tampa’s first string against Cleveland’s firsts for an entire half.
Are They The Real Deal?
The biggest difference seen with Tampa’s defense is their ability to get to the quarterback. Throughout the entire preseason in 2018, the Buccaneers amassed only seven sacks. This season, they have 10 with one game left before their season opener. More than sacks, the Buccaneers are putting pressure on opposing QB’s. Forcing early and inaccurate throws that give this young secondary a chance to make plays.
Tampa’s defense may not be entirely fixed. Penalties has cast a dark cloud on an otherwise bright future. the Bucs have had success in their new scheme, and they’ll look to build upon their early success in their last game of the preseason. They’ll head to Dallas to face off against the Cowboys.
The most impressive feat about this new Bucs defense is that they’ve been successful without a few of their key guys. DL Vita Vea, Linebacker Lavonte David and Safety Justin Evans have not played a single game. Those extra bodies should bring more schemes and opportunities for the young Bucs. Time, and staying healthy, will be key.
