So I thought that earlier Buccaneers win over the Lions was the most convincing win of the season. And it was. Emphasis on the was. Because they didn’t just grit out a win against one of the best in the AFC, but they absolutely slapped around one of the best defenses in the league. Yes the offense of the Chargers isn’t great, but to still do what the Bucs did is impressive.
To start with the bad, the 2nd quarter is an actual nightmare for the Buccaneers. To give you some idea, Baker has thrown nine picks in the 2nd quarter of games. He has five picks in every other quarter. Truly incredible. And that isn’t total turnovers, it’s just picks. I cannot imagine how many fumbles we have in that quarter. If someone could please reach out to me to explain why this might happen, do that. Because I have contacted doctors and scientists across the states, and none of them can explain it. It’s an anomaly on par with the Bermuda Triangle.
But that’s really the only negative to find with this game as the defense was once again solid. yes, Justin Herbert is injured, yes J.K. Dobbins was out, yes their offense even with those guys at full strength wasn’t amazing. I don’t care. Shutting out an opponent for a half is really good. Also holding the Chargers to 204 yards is impressive. This defense was absolutely killing Justin Herbert in the pocket. Impressive considering the Bucs haven’t had a good pass rush and the Chargers o-line is easily the best part of the offense. Calijah Kancey and Lavonte were absolutely eating. Hell, even Logan Hall was having a good game.
Jamel Dean got a pick. I don’t even know what else to add. It still doesn’t feel real, and I am half convinced this is a sign the world will end soon.
Baker after a rough pick remembered that Mike Evans is actually still in HOFer form and decided to feed him. It worked. He had a causal 159 yards on 9 receptions and two TDs. Jalen McMillan also had another TD, but I’m not fully convinced he is this breakout star. It feels more like good scheming by Coen than anything else, but he did make a few tough catches. I’m at least hopeful this will build his confidence and improve his skills over time. Bucky Irving also had a pretty alright stat line. Just 117 yards on 15 carries. Nothing too impressive from him this game.
This was just a fantastic team win. The Bucs defense showed up to play after a shaky first half and Baker put them away with ruthless efficiency. This team’s greatest enemy is truly themselves. Because outside of stupid mistakes, the Chargers and a lot of teams wouldn’t be able to hang with this team. Bowles is somehow keeping this defense together with thoughts and prayers, which is worthy of praise. If the Bucs can fix their second quarter woes, their win streak can get even longer.
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