The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are staring down the barrel of a disappointing season, and it’s time to face the music: Todd Bowles isn’t cutting it. Despite a talented roster, the team has underperformed, and it’s not just the losses – it’s the lack of competitiveness, the uninspired game plans, and the stagnant culture.
Under Bowles, the Bucs are 4-7 in one-score games, often folding under pressure. Their 2023 season is mirroring last year’s 8-9 finish, minus the playoff run.
Key stats:
• Todd Bowles’ record since taking over in Week 3 of 2022 is 34-32, with a 1-3 postseason record.
• Overall Record: 34-32 (regular season), 1-3 (postseason)
• NFC South Titles: 3 consecutive titles (2022-2024) • Points Allowed per Game: 25.1 (24th in the league)
• QB Play: Baker Mayfield has started 15 games this season, with 23 touchdowns and 8 interceptions
• Top-10 Teams: The Buccaneers are 0-3 vs. top-10 teams under Bowles
Bowles has received praise for keeping the Buccaneers competitive despite roster transitions and has developed a young nucleus of players. However, the team has struggled with consistency, particularly in one-score games (4-7).
Bowles’ inability to adapt has been glaring. The Bucs’ defense, once elite, now ranks 15th in points allowed. His offense is stagnant, failing to exploit mismatches or push the tempo.
The BR Rub
The reality is this team has underachieved. Yes there’s been injuries. Of course we can consider there’s another new Offensive Coordinator, but those are excuses. This defense is just average at best. The team seems to be lackadaisical at times.
Then there’s the cushion coverage issue. That combined with Bowles insistence of sliding into a prevent defense is a recipe for disaster. Which is exactly what the season has become.
Bowles had a fiery f-word laden press conference following the loss to New Orleans. The players responded by doing exactly the same thing the following week against Carolina. That should tell you the players weren’t paying attention to Bowles’ tantrum. Meaning, it appears he’s lost the locker room.
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