Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Can we count on the offensive line to win?
For the second time in four years, we will have the distinct pleasure of seeing Dirk Koetter and Mike Smith on HBO’s Hard Knocks. The two former Atlanta Falcons coaches will be on the signature HBO series this summer with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
On paper, Tampa Bay will challenge the emerging rival Falcons in the NFC South. This is the year that the Buccaneers need to make the NFC Playoffs. They were close last fall, but came up a game short at 9-7. There is talent all across the roster. General manager Jason Licht has done a fine job building this team. However, all of Tampa Bay’s playoff dreams will fade away if their offensive line can’t hold its own.
Offensive line and safety had been the two position groups that were troublesome for the 2016 Buccaneers. While we can only hope that the secondary will be better, are we sure that the offensive line will improve?
Koetter loves to have his quarterbacks move the chains with the Air Coryell attack. The only problem with that is the running game will eventually evaporate. This will result in the opposition sending many pass rushers at quarterback Jameis Winston regularly. While he has a great right arm, he has struggled with his accuracy at the NFL level.
Keep Winston upright is crucial to Tampa Bay reaching the playoffs. Having an offensive line that can open up favorable running lanes for Doug Martin and company to accelerate through will definitely create a solid play-action pass for Winston. If the offensive line does its part, Tampa Bay can make the playoffs and win a game or two this January.