So after a very forgettable performance against the Minnesota Vikings, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers bounced back nicely with a clutch-performance by Jameis Winston, winning a nail biter at home against the New York Giants 25-23.
The Buccaneers started off the game nicely, keeping the Giants from getting first downs early. The presence of previously injured Cornerback Brent Grimes was felt immensely. Grimes played a great game, keeping super star Wide Receiver Odell Beckham Jr. in check for most of the game. However, we need to figure out a way to get to the quarterback more often. Our pass rush was not efficient, once again, not recording a single sack or turnover for the second game in a row. Our defense played well against the run, though, allowing only 2.76 yards per carry to opposing Running Backs.
Offensively, we played a great game. Especially Jameis Winston’s bounce-back-performance was a dandy for Buccaneers fans. Our running game was effective, as well, Jaquizz Rodgers averaged 5.19 yards per carry and totaled 83 yards, opening plenty of options in the passing game, such as the long bomb on a play-action pass to Rookie Tight End O.J. Howard for his first NFL Touchdown. The fact that our kicker, Nick Folk, missed two Field goals and an extra point is very concerning, even though the weather conditions were terrible. However, he did make the most deciding Field Goal of the game. Furthermore, Ali Marpet needs to fix the bad snaps, which were a huge problem against the Vikings, as well.