It seems that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ biggest obstacle in reaching the playoffs this season is themselves. After coming into the year as the heavy favorites to win the NFC South, the Bucs have failed several times to take a stranglehold on the division. Instead, the Bucs’ postseason destiny will come down to a Week 18 divisional showdown with the Carolina Panthers, with the winner taking the division and advancing to the playoffs.
Coming into this week’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the Buccaneers players and staff were well aware that their playoff fate was in their own hands. Yet, the team struggled again to dig itself out of its extended rut, dropping the pivotal Florida battle 20-17.
A Closer Look at 3 Things That Went Wrong for the Buccaneers in Their Loss to the Dolphins
It wasn’t all doom and gloom, as some plays worked on both sides of the ball; however, overall, it was another unimpressive performance from the Buccaneers. It’s worth noting that they are not officially finished yet this season; they will need to refine some aspects if they hope to secure a postseason berth.
Costly Turnovers on Offense
Limiting turnovers is generally a rule of thumb if a team hopes to win any game; that’s nothing groundbreaking to say. That being said, the Buccaneers and quarterback Baker Mayfield continue to dig themselves into holes by giving the ball away.
This game was no different, as Mayfield was responsible for three turnovers (a pair of interceptions and a lost fumble), which ultimately killed any opportunity they had to get rhythm and make a comeback.
Throughout the game, the commentators continue to mention how he would be the last player to complain or sit out due to injuries. That being said, it was clear that Mayfield was struggling with his deep passes. Even though he managed to throw for 346 yards, his two INTs came on deep shots, whereas he was having success on shorter passes to his receiving core.
Struggles Shutting Down the Run Game
Coming into Week 17, the Buccaneers’ defense sat 20th in the NFL according to PFSN’s Team Defense Impact rating. While the unit has made some plays this season, they have been inconsistent, to say the least.
Unfortunately for the Bucs, the Dolphins managed to run all over them, with the defense unable to slow down the likes of De’Von Achane, Jaylen Wright, and the rest of the team, who combined for 145 yards on the ground.
Mental Lapses in the Secondary
The Buccaneers’ defense had some solid plays throughout the game; however, the Dolphins were able to capitalize on mistakes made by the secondary, helping them secure the victory.
After limiting rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers to minimal yards early in the first quarter, Jamel Dean misread a throwing play to Theo Wease Jr., which led to a 63-yard touchdown. It was not only Dean who struggled at times, but also Antoine Winfield Jr. and Tykee Smith, who missed opportunities to shut down the Fins.
If the Buccaneers are going to defeat the Panthers at home next week and secure the division, it’s clear that the coaching staff and team leaders will need to refocus and correct these mistakes. It might not be pretty, but there is still a chance for the Bucs to secure the division for the fifth consecutive year.
