Welcome back Bucs nation to Buccaneer Blake’s corner of Bucs Report. Today we are going to talk about who was HOT and who was NOT, in Thursday’s match-up against the Miami Dolphins.
WHO WAS HOT?
Peyton Barber looked like a man that has been doing this for a few years. He showed patience and familiarity, while running the ball with the first team offense. So far, it looks like he will take the bulk of the carries this season. I predict that he will continue to see this kind of play throughout the entire preseason.
The first unit offensive line seems to be something that you can set your hope high for in this upcoming season. They were able to keep the quarterback clean and was able to open massive holes for the running backs. I saw Jensen and Marpet pancake opposing defensive lineman, during Barber’s score run and even Donovan Smith was able to hold his own against Robert Quinn, which is impressive.
Fitzpatrick, Winston, and Griffin played well when they were all asked to take over the offense. All the quarterback were able to lead their offense to the promise land for scores. Griffin was able to produce a game winning drive, later stages in the game, to cap off the win against the Dolphins.
Justin Evans, and Carlton Davis, looked like they were ready to play and play well, they did. Mike Smith had the young duo playing mixed coverage, like: man and zone, the entire game. Smith trusted our young defense, on multiple occasions, during man coverage; And the duo did well. Evans should of had an interception, but could not haul it in when he had the chance. Davis had some nice pass breakups, when the offense looked his way.
WHO WAS NOT?
Ryan Smith had the game sealing interception, in the final stage of the game, but that was more desperation by the offense, rather than excellent play by Smith. Smith was picked-on the entire time and it was sad to watch. He was always out of position and the receivers were constantly, getting the best of him. The 3rd year man out of North Carolina Central, was also flagged for a pass interference, against Grant, when the receiver went for the deep pass. Ryan Smith needs to trust his technique more, rather than his speed.
Chandler Catanzaro did not make fans feel comfortable, yet; Even if he hit did the game winning kick. missing his first extra point and then missing a 53 yard field goal kick, is not what any fans wanted to see. If Catanzaro wants fans to stand behind him, he needs to go out and handle business.
Last, but not least: Chris Conte. He recently went on the record to say that he never gets any respect from fans and the first thing that happens is, gets side stepped on a run play, enforcing fan’s hatred for him. If he really wants to get respect from fans and teammates, then he has to do the simple things; like making easy tackles, when your’e given the chance and stop getting burnt in the open field.
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