Film Room: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Bucs Defense: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense is seen here pressuring the quarterback (2 sacks) and swarming all over the football (3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble). The Packers only netted 181 offensive yards against this defense last week, presenting a good challenge for a Denver Broncos offense that still ranks first in the NFL in yards (435.5 ypg) and second in scoring (33.2 ppg).

I take a look at this film and I see a defense that will take away the run from the opponent. Packers RB Ryan Grant had 15 carries for 20 yards, with a long of 8 yards. Take away that long and its’ 14 carries for 12 yards. Add a fumble to the mix and you’ll see this Bucs defense is just plain nasty.

A lot of these plays – particularly the interceptions – weren’t necessarily created by the Bucs, but occurred from errors and poor decisions by Packers QB Aaron Rodgers. The Bucs didn’t consistently pressure Rodgers, but filling in the gaps it appears that Rodgers was rattled enough to struggle throughout the game.

I see an opportunity the Packers used twice in the passing game in the middle of the field. Spread the safeties to the outside and utilize Tony Scheffler up the seam for some big plays. As much as most fans want to see a more conservative (and consistent) passing attack from Cutler and company this week, I think they’ll need to spread this defense early and often with the threat of the big play.

Bucs Offense: The Bucs offense gained 178 yards on the ground and will try to keep the Broncos offense off the field with this running game. QB Brian Griese had a pour outing, even though he wasn’t pressured much. I expect Tampa to put the ball in Graham‘s hands early and often and avoid Griese throwing away this game even without pressure.

Hopefully the Broncos will get Dewayne Robertson back at DT to help the point of attack. They’ll need it against a very underrated Tampa offensive line.