As we set out to begin the second quarter of the season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in an odd situation, especially on offense. For a team that looked almost unfair on paper, they have been plagued by injuries and haven’t quite lived up to their hype heading into the season. The Atlanta Falcons are in town to play the Buccaneers today, and this could provide the perfect “tune-up” game for what the Bucs so desperately have shown they need heading into Week 5.
With a 2-2 record and arguably the most challenging schedule to start the season in the NFL, there is no need to sound the alarm just yet; however, if we are being realistic, there is undoubtedly a level of frustration looming amongst fans. The Falcons are currently between a rebuild and a plug-and-play patchwork roster; this game couldn’t come at a better time for the Buccaneers. The Buccaneers are huge favorites (-510) in today’s game and need to take advantage of that opportunity. Luke Goedeke has struggled mightily this season, as the rookie has been required to block some of the best in the NFL. Today’s matchup against Grady Jarrett won’t be any easier. Still, with the lack of pressure that the Falcons defensive line has created this season, the Buccaneers may be able to offer the rookie some assistance and help elevate his game to what we saw during training camp and preseason.
#GoBucs offensive line through the first 4 weeks, per @PFF
Not ideal. pic.twitter.com/3oS4xpjV8l
— Danny Bennett (@RealDannyB) October 4, 2022
Heading into today, Tom Brady has the least amount of time to throw through all four weeks of the regular season. He hasn’t had much opportunity to develop chemistry with his wide receivers, especially beyond the second read. The Falcons are 20th in the league in rushing yards allowing 126 yards per game, and with Leonard Fournette finishing last Sunday night’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs with -3 rush yards, it’s all but a certainty that the Buccaneers will look to re-establish the run.
