October 3, 2025 • 25 mins
The Week 5 clash between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Seattle Seahawks brings high drama, with both teams battling for NFC supremacy amidst mounting injuries. The Buccaneers face the difficult task of containing Seattle’s explosive offense, relying on defensive discipline to avoid giving up game-changing splash plays. Tampa Bay’s own injury list looms large, as stars Mike Evans and Bucky Irving are ruled out, forcing new faces like Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin to step up alongside a defense that must pressure Sam Darnold and contain dynamic playmakers.Bucky Irving’s absence is especially pivotal: after delivering strong performances early this season, his injury shifts the load to Rachaad White and speedster Sean Tucker, while rookie Josh Williams could contribute on special teams. For the Buccaneers to prevail, they need creative play-calling, error-free execution, and major contributions in the passing game — essential strategies that keep this match-up at the top of every NFL fan’s radar for this crucial week.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
On today's show, the Bucks lose the first game of
the season, but in a lot of ways, it feels
like this loss set them back more than just one loss.
Can they rally without some key players? I'll discuss next
on this edition of the Box Report. Let's get out
(00:24):
and then then then then then well, hello, endo, welcome
(00:55):
into this edition of the Box Report, part of the
Bus Report podcast network. I'm so glad you decided to
join me today. As always, this podcast is free and
available on all the major platforms. My name is Dan Holmey.
You can find me on Twitter. It's at Dan Caps
twoent eight. You can find us online it's at Bucksreport
(01:16):
dot com. And the best way that you can help
grow this show is to subscribe to The Bucks Report
on YouTube and comment anything down below. So in this
edition of The Bucks Report, the injuries start to rack
up for this team, and going into this season, we
knew that there were some setbacks, but then, you know,
(01:39):
the preseason was going on and the injuries continued to accumulate,
and there's a real feeling out there that the Bucks
are in a good position. As I record this on
Saturday evening or excuse me, Friday evening, the Bucks are
in first place in the NFC South, but some major
injuries have as a Buccaneers fan concerned, I don't know
(02:03):
if you're concerned at home, but let's just take a
look first before we dive into the meat and potatoes,
if you will, of this episode. As we take a
look at players that are in fact going to be out.
I'm talking about Jamel Dean, I'm talking Mike Evans, Backy Irving,
Christian is in Benjamin Morrison. So you just take a
(02:26):
look at the players of the biggest impact there. Of course,
I'm gonna go ahead and say, Mike Evans and Bucky Irving,
do the Buccaneers as a matter of fact, have the
needed depth on their team to rally and find a
way to win, Because you know, what is said out
there is that Bucky Irving in particular might miss more
(02:47):
than just one game, so it's going to be players
that have to rise up around him. I'm talking Tucker,
I'm talking Rashad White, these kind of guys here. So
let's dive into it here in the first segment, not
to kind of start you off down in the dumps here,
but talking about the position that the Buccaneers are in
(03:08):
and I've had some time to think about this season already.
And I don't know if you guys think about football,
you know, when the games aren't getting played, but I do.
I spend a lot of time, you know, just thinking
about the games and where the team is at and
all that kind of thing. And I take a look
at the games that have been played thus far, and
I think to myself, wow, you know, they found a
(03:30):
way to come from behind. You take a look at
the Bucks versus the Falcons twenty three to twenty, some
late game heroics, the Bucks versus the Texans twenty to
nineteen a victory there, and against the Jets twenty nine
to twenty seven, and you think to yourself, wow, some
late game heroics is what put the Buccaneers in the
(03:53):
position that they're in. And to that extent, I'm going
to go ahead and say that's true. That's a good
thing that they were able to dig deep and find
a way to win these games. But what has really
been kind of drawn into focus for me is that
when the Bucks played the Eagles here as in the
most recent game, a thirty one to twenty five loss,
(04:15):
and I was listening to Stroud's podcast, and I agree
with his sentiment there that when you saw the Buccaneers
take on at the Eagles, you realize, Wow, that Eagles
team is a lot better than the Buccaneers are. And
that kind of just caused my thoughts to spiral a
little bit, and I think I was thinking to myself,
you know, in this season, I was thinking to myself,
(04:36):
the Bucks are a pretty good team. You know, at
one point there they were three and zero on the season.
But then in a lot of ways, I'm like those
games were just kind of coin flips. You know. You
think about that big pass to a Buka there and
say he didn't make that catch the you know, the
Bucks could have lost that game, and everything that happened
in the game against the Texans and Jets as well
(04:58):
that I'm glad they won the game, but they're not
winning these games handily in the same way that the
Eagles handle the Buccaneers thirty one to twenty five. Just
musings here, things that I'm thinking about late night here
on Friday evening from the studio. That you know, the
Buccaneers are a good team, and to be clear here,
they've done some great things with some big players out
(05:22):
of the mix. I'm talking to start the season. Like
I said with Godwin, now Evans McMillan, that this team
has been put to test, and now Bucky Irving. It
is not going to be easy for the Buccaneers in
this stretch here, a true test, right that. It's going
to be interesting to see how the Bucks fare against
(05:43):
the Seahawks because that's another team the same record. And
you take a look at the NFL standings right now,
the Buccaneers in first place in the NFC Cells South
with a three to one record, and then you take
a look at the Seahawks and they are in second
place with San Francisco being the powerhouse with a four
(06:05):
and one record. So it is going to be a
good test, you know, for this team to see what
they're made of. Can they rally with some big players
out of the mix. That is going to be the
storyline to follow. And you know, I've kind of gone
on here, but let's dive into the real show here,
and let's start with what's on everyone's mind. You know,
(06:26):
the big things here, the red zone struggles and how
injuries are reshaping this box team. You know, if you've
been following the team. You already know how the Bucks
have been, you know, punching below its weight when it
comes to finishing drives, those red those red zone trips
just aren't turning into touchdowns, and it's showing up in
the win lost column that they're not making the most
(06:49):
of their opportunities. And you know, you take a look
at what the Buccaneers have been able to accomplish, you know,
with Baker Mayfield scrambling, and you know, I to different
people on the show and I say, you know, I
wish you wouldn't scramble so much. He's putting himself at risk.
But if it wasn't for him in a lot of ways,
the Bucks would have lost more of these games. And
(07:10):
now now those worries get magnified with the injury list.
Mike Evans, like I said, still out, not practicing, So
don't hold your breath. He is a matter of fact,
not going to be in the game. We know that
for certain. Bucky Irving, like I said, Jamel Dean, Benjamin
Morrison and Christian is Ian now talking about these players,
I you know, I Revere, Mike Evans, I Revere Chris
(07:34):
Godwin as two really great wide receivers. I think most
people do. But what I'm going to say about them
is their injury prone. And you know that hamstring thing
with Mike Evans, well, this isn't the first time that
this has happened, right that there's a long history that in.
Godwin has a history of injuries as well, you know,
(07:55):
and most of the time in those injuries not his faults,
or I'm going to say almost exclusively not his fault.
But it is what it is. And you know, the
Buccaneers are playing, are paying, excuse me, Mike Evans and
Chris Godwin a substantial amount of money to play some
football out there, and you know, you see Godwin back,
which is encouraging, right, but not one hundred percent. So
(08:18):
that's going to really put that to test who is
in the mix there. It is going to be a
Meka Abuka, a Mecca Abuka, excuse me, and it is
going to be you know, guys like that. It's going
to be Chris Godwin, these kind of guys that are
going to have to step up and fill the role
because you know, you take a look at the Seahawks,
(08:39):
you know they're no slouch here. They are going to
throw the kitchen sink at the Buccaneers, and are the
Buccaneers prepared to grab that sink and throw it back
at them. I think they do have the depth and
the and the big thing that the Buccaneers have working
in their favor is they have great leadership. That Baker
Mayfield is a good leader. He is able to dig
(09:00):
deep and you know much too. You know. My disapproval,
I guess you could say is that he does run
that football and does whatever it takes to win a game.
But like what I talked about with Steve Versnick when
he was on here, the sustainability, we cannot count on
Baker Mayfield to run the football all the time. At
some point, you know, you think the injuries that we
(09:23):
faced thus far are bad, think about how bad this
team is going to be minus Baker Mayfield when it's
Teddy Bridgewater football, because that is going to happen. Just
you know, it's just a matter of odds at some
point that he's going to keep running, that he's going
to try for the first down. He's not going to
dive because you know, he's not going to get first
down otherwise, and it's going to be too late. So
(09:46):
you know, a lot of high hopes going into this season,
and I still do. It's just things that have me worried.
In the injuries, you know, the most injuries that I
have seen on this team in quite some time. So
things to circle and consider. But when you take a
look at this group, they cannot afford to lose playmakers,
especially in the red zone. You know, without Evans, you
(10:08):
lose your jump ball guy or go to when things
get tight. Bucky irvings a home run threats and missing
him really takes some electricity out of the backfield. Because
let's be honest here, folks, it was Rashad White's job
for the taking. He was running back number one, and
then Bucky Irving came and supplanted him. He was that
(10:32):
much better. So now you know, you take a look
at Rashad White. I don't want to say that he's
happy that Bucky Irving's injured. I think that that is
not true at all as a matter of fact. But
it's going to be an excellent opportunity to show what
he has in the tank, maybe to solidify his spot
in the organization, to say, you know, I had a
(10:53):
little bit of bumps in the road there, but I
am the guy that you thought I was. And as
far as Tucker is concerned, I've talked about with different
guests on here as well. He would be a starter
on any other team in the NFL. He just is
in the position that he's in. He's on the Buccaneers
who are pretty loaded in the running back position. But
when you take a look at it concerning right that,
(11:16):
things are going well right now, but things could fall
apart in a hurry. You know, if these injured players
do not make their way back. Let's hope for a
big win against the Seahawks. All right, So coming up
here after the break, we'll talk about the run game
reality Check. I'll break it all down straight ahead. All right,
(11:46):
Welcome back into this edition of the Bucks Report, part
of the Bucks Report podcast network simulcast on the Bucks
Minute Cast podcast feed on the Fans for Sports Network.
So let's talk about the Buccaneers and where they're at
rate now as far as the run game reality check is, So,
you know, let's dig deeper into this run game because
(12:06):
it's a huge topic heading into this weekend. You take
a look at last year and the Bucks had one
of the best big play run offenses in football. Eleven
runs of thirty yards or longer. Only the Ravens did
better in that department. Think about that eleven chunk plays
that just broke games open. But this season won And
(12:32):
you know, sustainability, I guess I could title this episode that,
how long is that sustainable? In the first segment, I
talked about injuries, I talked about Bigger Mayfield in his
case of happy feed. How long is all of this
sustainable before the bottom falls out? If we think too
previous seasons, it's around this time of year where the
(12:54):
Bucks go on a losing streak. Is that going to
be the case here? But you take a look at
it this season, like I said, one a single run
of thirty plus yards and that was from Mayfield scrambling,
not even a running back. You know. So I have
sung the praises of the running backs, and I've also
(13:16):
sung the praises of the wide receivers on this team,
but it seems like when they need the sure thing
as far as offense is concerned, well that is Baker
Mayfield that has kind of taken this team on his
back and carry him across the finish line. Because this
is a big problem, you know, especially with Bucky Irving out,
the Bucks aren't just missing their lightning, they're missing that
(13:37):
spark that can change a game in a heartbeat. And
like I said, Rashad White, you know, I'm not trying
to speak disparagingly of him. I think that he has talent. However,
I don't think that he is good as good as
Bucky Irving, And of course the Buccaneers believe that as well.
But Rashad White has the volume, but the long runs
(13:58):
haven't showed up. And Tucker, I'm excited if there's something
to be excited about. I'm excited about him getting more reps.
But Sean Tucker, though, keep your eyes on him, even
if his touches are limited. Last year, Tucker hit on
two of those big plays, same as White, and on
much fewer carries, and you know, you take a look
(14:22):
at it. I've talked to quite a few people that
watched the last game. They and they talk to me about, wow,
this Buccaneers team seems to be falling apart to them, like, yeah,
well it's injuries, guys. There's a lot of injuries. And
they're like, yeah, we're all injured. And that's true. I'm
not saying that the Buccaneers are in a unique position
being injured. Hi. I'm saying, however, that when this team
(14:43):
you know is fully healthy, and for this team to
be one hundred percent, you know, we're talking after the
bye week. You know, I'm talking Jalen McMillan, these kind
of players, and you know he think to consider there
may be newer injuries as well. So to think that
this team you know, is going to ever be at
one hundred percent this season, I think I just don't
think it's possible. But if Tampa's going to keep that
(15:06):
streak alive one hundred plus rushing yards as a team
in a tough Seattle environment, it'll have to be by committee,
and someone unexpected might have to break one. And I
just have a hunch that this game is going to
be closer than we think. I am looking into my
crystal ball, look into it with me here. I do
(15:28):
see the Buccaneers winning this game. And some people might say, Dan,
have you had too much to drink tonight? And I'm
going to answer that by saying, I had one beer.
But I think they're going to be able to I
think it's going to be a close game. I don't
like predicting, you know, final scores, because that just really
seems pointless. That's kind of throwing it at the dartboard there.
But I do think that the Buccaneers find a way
(15:50):
to dig deep and win this game. And I also
think that it is still going to be on the
back of primarily Baker Mayfield. But I do expect to
see a hungry Rashad White. I expect to see a
hungry Tucker as well. Right that. I think that these
guys understand the gravity of the situation. And another name
(16:12):
to watch as well is undrafted rookie Josh Williams. He
won't see a ton of offensive snaps, but he's made
the roster on the strength of his special teams play.
He should be busy there Sunday, So watch for a
hustle play or two. Sometimes those make the difference in
a close, physical game. And it's going to be a
close game. Like I said, I don't think that this
(16:35):
is going to be a game that is handily won,
but I do see the Buccaneers being victorious. Could I
be wrong, of course I could be. It's just kind
of a hunch, a premonition. So with a run game,
hobbling all the focus shifts to who steps up, does
White get loose, does Tucker hit a seam? Or is
it up to Mayfield once again to get creative? All
(16:57):
of the above, you know, take the test in the
school select all that applies. I think that it's going
to be all of those things. So it's not going
to be an easy match. I know that it gets
very loud in Seattle, and you know, there's a lot
for them to cheer for as well as their team
is playing well. So the Buccaneers are going to be
going into a hostile environment. I hope that they ultimately
(17:22):
have what it takes, all right, So coming up here
after the break the matchup and what to expect in Seattle,
I'll break it all down straight ahead. All right, Welcome
back into this edition of the Bucks Report podcast, part
of the Bucks Report podcast network, simulcast on the Bucks
(17:45):
mint Cast podcast feed. So a lot at steak here.
I don't think that the Buccaneers want to lose any momentum, right.
I think that you know, they did lose a game, right,
you know, so it kind of maybe stunted that whole
growth a little bit stimy their progress. But I think
that the Buccaneers are a resilient team. I think they
have what it takes to dig deep and pick up
(18:08):
a dub. So let's set up the Bucks Seahawks matchup,
and it's a tough physical test in one of the
NFL's most hostile environments. Seattle brings their own problems, a
defense that's hungry, a quarterback trying to prove he belongs
and take big steps forward. I think that they're pretty
good in that regard. But the Bucks meanwhile, come in
(18:30):
a little banged up, a little frustrated, and in need
of a win to keep peace in the NFC. And
you know, you take a look at the Seahawks, They've
had some changes in the quarterback room. I think they're
in a pretty good position right now. But you know,
just kind of like a lot of other teams around
the NFL, there is changes and adapting there. So expert
(18:54):
picks this week, here's the theme. They see a tight game.
Most analytics are leaning towards the most because of Tampa
Bay's injuries and offensive inconsistencies, especially in the red zone. Still,
no one's counting the Bucks out, and there's a baseline
belief if if Baker Mayfield protects the football, and the
defense gets a takeaway or two, they have a real shot.
(19:20):
So yet I'm in that boat. I am a glass
half full in this case, and I'm generally not I
am generally quite pessimistic, but I see them getting it done.
But what the Bucks need above all is execution. Like
I talked about earlier in the show, turn red zone
trips into touchdowns, limit penalties, and tackle in the open field.
(19:42):
All cliches, sure, but all are true, especially on the road.
And don't sleep on special teams. You know, a block punt,
a long return, or just flipping the field with smart
coverage could be the difference. And we saw that special teams.
That is something to drill down on a future podcast
(20:03):
as well. But the struggles in the last game, and
you know it's the special teams coach. Is he under fire?
He should be. I know that the punter in the
last game that the Eagles ran it back there, But
you know, is that the special teams coordinator? Is that
his job? Well, yeah, it is kind of, but also
(20:23):
that he was quite slow in kicking it as well.
So what should the fans look for on Sunday? Here's
the wrap missing starters mean faces in key spots, the
run game, struggling for big plays will be under the microscope.
If things break, a big play, a key stop, a
little Mayfield magic, Tampa can absolutely leave Seattle with a win.
(20:48):
And I do think that's the case. I just think
that they are going to have to dig deep to
get it done and just kind of hope, you know,
in a lot of ways that they have what it takes.
It is going to be a true test for this team.
That much, I know for sure. But I think that
they're in a good spot, you know, despite the fact
that they have faced a lot of injuries that they
(21:11):
can in fact dig deep. But this team, like I said,
they are going to have to make the most of
their opportunities, you know, if it's coming to an extra point,
if it's coming to a field goal, you know, or
if it's going for two points. I think that, you know,
to a certain extent, the Buccaneers need to be a
(21:31):
bit more aggressive in that regard, to really put the
boot down on the opponent's throw and apply a little
bit of pressure and to just kind of lay it
all out there. Because and the games that I've seen
thus far, like I said, I'm glad. You know that
they won the first three games, you know, the late
game heroics and all that, but it shouldn't have to
(21:52):
come to that. And you know, like I talked about
with different guests on the show, you know in this
season already is it's not sustainable. At some point, you know,
the rubber is going to meet the road. You know
for this team that you know you got lucky here
or there, but when you play you know, a bit
more of a formidable opponent in the form of the
Eagles or let's say the Seahawks, they are going to
(22:15):
expose your weaknesses. You're not going to be able to
to get away with those kind of things. So, you know,
big picture, looking at this team, you know, I guess
what I would say is I hope that, of course
Mike Evans comes back sooner than later, because make no
mistake about it, you know that you do have your
sterling Shepherds in there. You have your a Mecca at Buka,
(22:37):
who has been absolutely you know, a game changer for
the most part for the Bucks this year. But Mike
Evans is the guy for me that stirs the drink
at the wide receiver position. Godwin is too, but you know,
getting both of those players healthy at the right time.
It just doesn't seem to happen too often anymore. It's
(22:57):
been quite a while since we have seen Evans and
god went healthy at the same time. But you know,
bigger pieces are starting to come in, and you know,
the ability of this team to adapt, I guess is
one of their saving graces. You know, you take a
look at Graham Barton and when he in Bretisen and
Michael Jordan and they had to move their own positions
(23:20):
there in the absence of Tristan Wurfs, And that's what
I'm talking about. You know, that wasn't something that the
Buccaneers just tried on a whim. Those players had a
history there. But you know, a tip of the hack
goes out to Todd Bowles and his and his staff
for being able to pull those kind of things off,
because you know, when you start pulling guys in from
the practice squad or you know, if you want to
(23:42):
even talk about Chase McLoughlin here for special teams kind
of assignments that you need the guys in place, and
it would have been easy for the Buccaneers to just
you know, pull the release lever on Chase McLoughlin because
he had one bad game, but what did he do
in the last game? Set a record for field gold
distance outside, So you know, it's one of the things,
(24:04):
and it's a tough thing. Certain positions are like that that.
You know, the Buccaneers have good depth at a lot
of positions and not so much at other ones. And
you know, I'm glad that Chase McLaughlin is able to
find his way, you know, to dig deep and have
a return to form, because if he didn't, then you're
scrambling and then there is you know, kind of fear
(24:25):
around the organization. Are they floundering? Are they flailing? But
not the case. So to put a bow on this show,
as we go into the game on Sunday against Seattle,
it's not going to be easy, nor should it be.
As I've always said, I want to I want to
see the team that I like put through its paces.
I don't want any easy gimmes, if you will, So
(24:47):
the Buccaneers are going to have to dig deep, but
I think that they will rise above. I think that
you are going to see a good run game in
Rashad White and Tucker, those kind of players and also,
you know, if Baker can air out a couple of
balls to you know, a mecca out there, or say
Godwin could take some more steps forward, then I think
(25:09):
the Buccaneers are going to be in a good position.
I guess we'll know sooner than later. Listen, I want
to thank you for joining me on this edition of
the Box Report podcast, part of the Box Report Podcast Network,
simulcast on the Box Minicast podcast feed, and I'll talk
to you again next time.
On today's show, the Bucks lose the first game of
the season, but in a lot of ways, it feels
like this loss set them back more than just one loss.
Can they rally without some key players? I'll discuss next
on this edition of the Box Report. Let's get out
(00:24):
and then then then then then well, hello, endo, welcome
(00:55):
into this edition of the Box Report, part of the
Bus Report podcast network. I'm so glad you decided to
join me today. As always, this podcast is free and
available on all the major platforms. My name is Dan Holmey.
You can find me on Twitter. It's at Dan Caps
twoent eight. You can find us online it's at Bucksreport
(01:16):
dot com. And the best way that you can help
grow this show is to subscribe to The Bucks Report
on YouTube and comment anything down below. So in this
edition of The Bucks Report, the injuries start to rack
up for this team, and going into this season, we
knew that there were some setbacks, but then, you know,
(01:39):
the preseason was going on and the injuries continued to accumulate,
and there's a real feeling out there that the Bucks
are in a good position. As I record this on
Saturday evening or excuse me, Friday evening, the Bucks are
in first place in the NFC South, but some major
injuries have as a Buccaneers fan concerned, I don't know
(02:03):
if you're concerned at home, but let's just take a
look first before we dive into the meat and potatoes,
if you will, of this episode. As we take a
look at players that are in fact going to be out.
I'm talking about Jamel Dean, I'm talking Mike Evans, Backy Irving,
Christian is in Benjamin Morrison. So you just take a
(02:26):
look at the players of the biggest impact there. Of course,
I'm gonna go ahead and say, Mike Evans and Bucky Irving,
do the Buccaneers as a matter of fact, have the
needed depth on their team to rally and find a
way to win, Because you know, what is said out
there is that Bucky Irving in particular might miss more
(02:47):
than just one game, so it's going to be players
that have to rise up around him. I'm talking Tucker,
I'm talking Rashad White, these kind of guys here. So
let's dive into it here in the first segment, not
to kind of start you off down in the dumps here,
but talking about the position that the Buccaneers are in
(03:08):
and I've had some time to think about this season already.
And I don't know if you guys think about football,
you know, when the games aren't getting played, but I do.
I spend a lot of time, you know, just thinking
about the games and where the team is at and
all that kind of thing. And I take a look
at the games that have been played thus far, and
I think to myself, wow, you know, they found a
(03:30):
way to come from behind. You take a look at
the Bucks versus the Falcons twenty three to twenty, some
late game heroics, the Bucks versus the Texans twenty to
nineteen a victory there, and against the Jets twenty nine
to twenty seven, and you think to yourself, wow, some
late game heroics is what put the Buccaneers in the
(03:53):
position that they're in. And to that extent, I'm going
to go ahead and say that's true. That's a good
thing that they were able to dig deep and find
a way to win these games. But what has really
been kind of drawn into focus for me is that
when the Bucks played the Eagles here as in the
most recent game, a thirty one to twenty five loss,
(04:15):
and I was listening to Stroud's podcast, and I agree
with his sentiment there that when you saw the Buccaneers
take on at the Eagles, you realize, Wow, that Eagles
team is a lot better than the Buccaneers are. And
that kind of just caused my thoughts to spiral a
little bit, and I think I was thinking to myself,
you know, in this season, I was thinking to myself,
(04:36):
the Bucks are a pretty good team. You know, at
one point there they were three and zero on the season.
But then in a lot of ways, I'm like those
games were just kind of coin flips. You know. You
think about that big pass to a Buka there and
say he didn't make that catch the you know, the
Bucks could have lost that game, and everything that happened
in the game against the Texans and Jets as well
(04:58):
that I'm glad they won the game, but they're not
winning these games handily in the same way that the
Eagles handle the Buccaneers thirty one to twenty five. Just
musings here, things that I'm thinking about late night here
on Friday evening from the studio. That you know, the
Buccaneers are a good team, and to be clear here,
they've done some great things with some big players out
(05:22):
of the mix. I'm talking to start the season. Like
I said with Godwin, now Evans McMillan, that this team
has been put to test, and now Bucky Irving. It
is not going to be easy for the Buccaneers in
this stretch here, a true test, right that. It's going
to be interesting to see how the Bucks fare against
(05:43):
the Seahawks because that's another team the same record. And
you take a look at the NFL standings right now,
the Buccaneers in first place in the NFC Cells South
with a three to one record, and then you take
a look at the Seahawks and they are in second
place with San Francisco being the powerhouse with a four
(06:05):
and one record. So it is going to be a
good test, you know, for this team to see what
they're made of. Can they rally with some big players
out of the mix. That is going to be the
storyline to follow. And you know, I've kind of gone
on here, but let's dive into the real show here,
and let's start with what's on everyone's mind. You know,
(06:26):
the big things here, the red zone struggles and how
injuries are reshaping this box team. You know, if you've
been following the team. You already know how the Bucks
have been, you know, punching below its weight when it
comes to finishing drives, those red those red zone trips
just aren't turning into touchdowns, and it's showing up in
the win lost column that they're not making the most
(06:49):
of their opportunities. And you know, you take a look
at what the Buccaneers have been able to accomplish, you know,
with Baker Mayfield scrambling, and you know, I to different
people on the show and I say, you know, I
wish you wouldn't scramble so much. He's putting himself at risk.
But if it wasn't for him in a lot of ways,
the Bucks would have lost more of these games. And
(07:10):
now now those worries get magnified with the injury list.
Mike Evans, like I said, still out, not practicing, So
don't hold your breath. He is a matter of fact,
not going to be in the game. We know that
for certain. Bucky Irving, like I said, Jamel Dean, Benjamin
Morrison and Christian is Ian now talking about these players,
I you know, I Revere, Mike Evans, I Revere Chris
(07:34):
Godwin as two really great wide receivers. I think most
people do. But what I'm going to say about them
is their injury prone. And you know that hamstring thing
with Mike Evans, well, this isn't the first time that
this has happened, right that there's a long history that in.
Godwin has a history of injuries as well, you know,
(07:55):
and most of the time in those injuries not his faults,
or I'm going to say almost exclusively not his fault.
But it is what it is. And you know, the
Buccaneers are playing, are paying, excuse me, Mike Evans and
Chris Godwin a substantial amount of money to play some
football out there, and you know, you see Godwin back,
which is encouraging, right, but not one hundred percent. So
(08:18):
that's going to really put that to test who is
in the mix there. It is going to be a
Meka Abuka, a Mecca Abuka, excuse me, and it is
going to be you know, guys like that. It's going
to be Chris Godwin, these kind of guys that are
going to have to step up and fill the role
because you know, you take a look at the Seahawks,
(08:39):
you know they're no slouch here. They are going to
throw the kitchen sink at the Buccaneers, and are the
Buccaneers prepared to grab that sink and throw it back
at them. I think they do have the depth and
the and the big thing that the Buccaneers have working
in their favor is they have great leadership. That Baker
Mayfield is a good leader. He is able to dig
(09:00):
deep and you know much too. You know. My disapproval,
I guess you could say is that he does run
that football and does whatever it takes to win a game.
But like what I talked about with Steve Versnick when
he was on here, the sustainability, we cannot count on
Baker Mayfield to run the football all the time. At
some point, you know, you think the injuries that we
(09:23):
faced thus far are bad, think about how bad this
team is going to be minus Baker Mayfield when it's
Teddy Bridgewater football, because that is going to happen. Just
you know, it's just a matter of odds at some
point that he's going to keep running, that he's going
to try for the first down. He's not going to
dive because you know, he's not going to get first
down otherwise, and it's going to be too late. So
(09:46):
you know, a lot of high hopes going into this season,
and I still do. It's just things that have me worried.
In the injuries, you know, the most injuries that I
have seen on this team in quite some time. So
things to circle and consider. But when you take a
look at this group, they cannot afford to lose playmakers,
especially in the red zone. You know, without Evans, you
(10:08):
lose your jump ball guy or go to when things
get tight. Bucky irvings a home run threats and missing
him really takes some electricity out of the backfield. Because
let's be honest here, folks, it was Rashad White's job
for the taking. He was running back number one, and
then Bucky Irving came and supplanted him. He was that
(10:32):
much better. So now you know, you take a look
at Rashad White. I don't want to say that he's
happy that Bucky Irving's injured. I think that that is
not true at all as a matter of fact. But
it's going to be an excellent opportunity to show what
he has in the tank, maybe to solidify his spot
in the organization, to say, you know, I had a
(10:53):
little bit of bumps in the road there, but I
am the guy that you thought I was. And as
far as Tucker is concerned, I've talked about with different
guests on here as well. He would be a starter
on any other team in the NFL. He just is
in the position that he's in. He's on the Buccaneers
who are pretty loaded in the running back position. But
when you take a look at it concerning right that,
(11:16):
things are going well right now, but things could fall
apart in a hurry. You know, if these injured players
do not make their way back. Let's hope for a
big win against the Seahawks. All right, So coming up
here after the break, we'll talk about the run game
reality Check. I'll break it all down straight ahead. All right,
(11:46):
Welcome back into this edition of the Bucks Report, part
of the Bucks Report podcast network simulcast on the Bucks
Minute Cast podcast feed on the Fans for Sports Network.
So let's talk about the Buccaneers and where they're at
rate now as far as the run game reality check is, So,
you know, let's dig deeper into this run game because
(12:06):
it's a huge topic heading into this weekend. You take
a look at last year and the Bucks had one
of the best big play run offenses in football. Eleven
runs of thirty yards or longer. Only the Ravens did
better in that department. Think about that eleven chunk plays
that just broke games open. But this season won And
(12:32):
you know, sustainability, I guess I could title this episode that,
how long is that sustainable? In the first segment, I
talked about injuries, I talked about Bigger Mayfield in his
case of happy feed. How long is all of this
sustainable before the bottom falls out? If we think too
previous seasons, it's around this time of year where the
(12:54):
Bucks go on a losing streak. Is that going to
be the case here? But you take a look at
it this season, like I said, one a single run
of thirty plus yards and that was from Mayfield scrambling,
not even a running back. You know. So I have
sung the praises of the running backs, and I've also
(13:16):
sung the praises of the wide receivers on this team,
but it seems like when they need the sure thing
as far as offense is concerned, well that is Baker
Mayfield that has kind of taken this team on his
back and carry him across the finish line. Because this
is a big problem, you know, especially with Bucky Irving out,
the Bucks aren't just missing their lightning, they're missing that
(13:37):
spark that can change a game in a heartbeat. And
like I said, Rashad White, you know, I'm not trying
to speak disparagingly of him. I think that he has talent. However,
I don't think that he is good as good as
Bucky Irving, And of course the Buccaneers believe that as well.
But Rashad White has the volume, but the long runs
(13:58):
haven't showed up. And Tucker, I'm excited if there's something
to be excited about. I'm excited about him getting more reps.
But Sean Tucker, though, keep your eyes on him, even
if his touches are limited. Last year, Tucker hit on
two of those big plays, same as White, and on
much fewer carries, and you know, you take a look
(14:22):
at it. I've talked to quite a few people that
watched the last game. They and they talk to me about, wow,
this Buccaneers team seems to be falling apart to them, like, yeah,
well it's injuries, guys. There's a lot of injuries. And
they're like, yeah, we're all injured. And that's true. I'm
not saying that the Buccaneers are in a unique position
being injured. Hi. I'm saying, however, that when this team
(14:43):
you know is fully healthy, and for this team to
be one hundred percent, you know, we're talking after the
bye week. You know, I'm talking Jalen McMillan, these kind
of players, and you know he think to consider there
may be newer injuries as well. So to think that
this team you know, is going to ever be at
one hundred percent this season, I think I just don't
think it's possible. But if Tampa's going to keep that
(15:06):
streak alive one hundred plus rushing yards as a team
in a tough Seattle environment, it'll have to be by committee,
and someone unexpected might have to break one. And I
just have a hunch that this game is going to
be closer than we think. I am looking into my
crystal ball, look into it with me here. I do
(15:28):
see the Buccaneers winning this game. And some people might say, Dan,
have you had too much to drink tonight? And I'm
going to answer that by saying, I had one beer.
But I think they're going to be able to I
think it's going to be a close game. I don't
like predicting, you know, final scores, because that just really
seems pointless. That's kind of throwing it at the dartboard there.
But I do think that the Buccaneers find a way
(15:50):
to dig deep and win this game. And I also
think that it is still going to be on the
back of primarily Baker Mayfield. But I do expect to
see a hungry Rashad White. I expect to see a
hungry Tucker as well. Right that. I think that these
guys understand the gravity of the situation. And another name
(16:12):
to watch as well is undrafted rookie Josh Williams. He
won't see a ton of offensive snaps, but he's made
the roster on the strength of his special teams play.
He should be busy there Sunday, So watch for a
hustle play or two. Sometimes those make the difference in
a close, physical game. And it's going to be a
close game. Like I said, I don't think that this
(16:35):
is going to be a game that is handily won,
but I do see the Buccaneers being victorious. Could I
be wrong, of course I could be. It's just kind
of a hunch, a premonition. So with a run game,
hobbling all the focus shifts to who steps up, does
White get loose, does Tucker hit a seam? Or is
it up to Mayfield once again to get creative? All
(16:57):
of the above, you know, take the test in the
school select all that applies. I think that it's going
to be all of those things. So it's not going
to be an easy match. I know that it gets
very loud in Seattle, and you know, there's a lot
for them to cheer for as well as their team
is playing well. So the Buccaneers are going to be
going into a hostile environment. I hope that they ultimately
(17:22):
have what it takes, all right, So coming up here
after the break the matchup and what to expect in Seattle,
I'll break it all down straight ahead. All right, Welcome
back into this edition of the Bucks Report podcast, part
of the Bucks Report podcast network, simulcast on the Bucks
(17:45):
mint Cast podcast feed. So a lot at steak here.
I don't think that the Buccaneers want to lose any momentum, right.
I think that you know, they did lose a game, right,
you know, so it kind of maybe stunted that whole
growth a little bit stimy their progress. But I think
that the Buccaneers are a resilient team. I think they
have what it takes to dig deep and pick up
(18:08):
a dub. So let's set up the Bucks Seahawks matchup,
and it's a tough physical test in one of the
NFL's most hostile environments. Seattle brings their own problems, a
defense that's hungry, a quarterback trying to prove he belongs
and take big steps forward. I think that they're pretty
good in that regard. But the Bucks meanwhile, come in
(18:30):
a little banged up, a little frustrated, and in need
of a win to keep peace in the NFC. And
you know, you take a look at the Seahawks, They've
had some changes in the quarterback room. I think they're
in a pretty good position right now. But you know,
just kind of like a lot of other teams around
the NFL, there is changes and adapting there. So expert
(18:54):
picks this week, here's the theme. They see a tight game.
Most analytics are leaning towards the most because of Tampa
Bay's injuries and offensive inconsistencies, especially in the red zone. Still,
no one's counting the Bucks out, and there's a baseline
belief if if Baker Mayfield protects the football, and the
defense gets a takeaway or two, they have a real shot.
(19:20):
So yet I'm in that boat. I am a glass
half full in this case, and I'm generally not I
am generally quite pessimistic, but I see them getting it done.
But what the Bucks need above all is execution. Like
I talked about earlier in the show, turn red zone
trips into touchdowns, limit penalties, and tackle in the open field.
(19:42):
All cliches, sure, but all are true, especially on the road.
And don't sleep on special teams. You know, a block punt,
a long return, or just flipping the field with smart
coverage could be the difference. And we saw that special teams.
That is something to drill down on a future podcast
(20:03):
as well. But the struggles in the last game, and
you know it's the special teams coach. Is he under fire?
He should be. I know that the punter in the
last game that the Eagles ran it back there, But
you know, is that the special teams coordinator? Is that
his job? Well, yeah, it is kind of, but also
(20:23):
that he was quite slow in kicking it as well.
So what should the fans look for on Sunday? Here's
the wrap missing starters mean faces in key spots, the
run game, struggling for big plays will be under the microscope.
If things break, a big play, a key stop, a
little Mayfield magic, Tampa can absolutely leave Seattle with a win.
(20:48):
And I do think that's the case. I just think
that they are going to have to dig deep to
get it done and just kind of hope, you know,
in a lot of ways that they have what it takes.
It is going to be a true test for this team.
That much, I know for sure. But I think that
they're in a good spot, you know, despite the fact
that they have faced a lot of injuries that they
(21:11):
can in fact dig deep. But this team, like I said,
they are going to have to make the most of
their opportunities, you know, if it's coming to an extra point,
if it's coming to a field goal, you know, or
if it's going for two points. I think that, you know,
to a certain extent, the Buccaneers need to be a
(21:31):
bit more aggressive in that regard, to really put the
boot down on the opponent's throw and apply a little
bit of pressure and to just kind of lay it
all out there. Because and the games that I've seen
thus far, like I said, I'm glad. You know that
they won the first three games, you know, the late
game heroics and all that, but it shouldn't have to
(21:52):
come to that. And you know, like I talked about
with different guests on the show, you know in this
season already is it's not sustainable. At some point, you know,
the rubber is going to meet the road. You know
for this team that you know you got lucky here
or there, but when you play you know, a bit
more of a formidable opponent in the form of the
Eagles or let's say the Seahawks, they are going to
(22:15):
expose your weaknesses. You're not going to be able to
to get away with those kind of things. So, you know,
big picture, looking at this team, you know, I guess
what I would say is I hope that, of course
Mike Evans comes back sooner than later, because make no
mistake about it, you know that you do have your
sterling Shepherds in there. You have your a Mecca at Buka,
(22:37):
who has been absolutely you know, a game changer for
the most part for the Bucks this year. But Mike
Evans is the guy for me that stirs the drink
at the wide receiver position. Godwin is too, but you know,
getting both of those players healthy at the right time.
It just doesn't seem to happen too often anymore. It's
(22:57):
been quite a while since we have seen Evans and
god went healthy at the same time. But you know,
bigger pieces are starting to come in, and you know,
the ability of this team to adapt, I guess is
one of their saving graces. You know, you take a
look at Graham Barton and when he in Bretisen and
Michael Jordan and they had to move their own positions
(23:20):
there in the absence of Tristan Wurfs, And that's what
I'm talking about. You know, that wasn't something that the
Buccaneers just tried on a whim. Those players had a
history there. But you know, a tip of the hack
goes out to Todd Bowles and his and his staff
for being able to pull those kind of things off,
because you know, when you start pulling guys in from
the practice squad or you know, if you want to
(23:42):
even talk about Chase McLoughlin here for special teams kind
of assignments that you need the guys in place, and
it would have been easy for the Buccaneers to just
you know, pull the release lever on Chase McLoughlin because
he had one bad game, but what did he do
in the last game? Set a record for field gold
distance outside, So you know, it's one of the things,
(24:04):
and it's a tough thing. Certain positions are like that that.
You know, the Buccaneers have good depth at a lot
of positions and not so much at other ones. And
you know, I'm glad that Chase McLaughlin is able to
find his way, you know, to dig deep and have
a return to form, because if he didn't, then you're
scrambling and then there is you know, kind of fear
(24:25):
around the organization. Are they floundering? Are they flailing? But
not the case. So to put a bow on this show,
as we go into the game on Sunday against Seattle,
it's not going to be easy, nor should it be.
As I've always said, I want to I want to
see the team that I like put through its paces.
I don't want any easy gimmes, if you will, So
(24:47):
the Buccaneers are going to have to dig deep, but
I think that they will rise above. I think that
you are going to see a good run game in
Rashad White and Tucker, those kind of players and also,
you know, if Baker can air out a couple of
balls to you know, a mecca out there, or say
Godwin could take some more steps forward, then I think
(25:09):
the Buccaneers are going to be in a good position.
I guess we'll know sooner than later. Listen, I want
to thank you for joining me on this edition of
the Box Report podcast, part of the Box Report Podcast Network,
simulcast on the Box Minicast podcast feed, and I'll talk
to you again next time.
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