Fansided

Behind Tom Brady, the Buccaneers have real dreams of another Super Bowl

By Rob Leeds

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 02: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks to pass the ball during training camp at AdventHealth Training Center on September 02, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 02: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks to pass the ball during training camp at AdventHealth Training Center on September 02, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /
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With Tom Brady in Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers are hoping for a rise to the top behind the greatest quarterback to ever live.

Best-case scenario

A push into the deeper part of the playoffs. All of the pieces have been assembled to at least end the drought that has been plaguing Tampa Bay for over a decade, but expectations should be higher. With Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski in the fold, along with a strong draft class, there’s reason to believe Tampa Bay could reach its first Super Bowl since 2002.

Worst-case scenario

Missing the playoffs. No record, no matter how positive it may look, would excuse a team with this talent if it fails to at least earn a playoff berth. If Tampa Bay doesn’t reach the expanded postseason, it would mean the move to acquire Brady fell flat, and perhaps there’s a deeper problem.

Biggest offseason move

The signing of Brady is easily the biggest move the Bucs have made in the history of the franchise. Brady brings experience and consistency to a team that desperately needed it, and at 43 years old, still looks like one of the better signal-callers in the game. His presence elevates everyone around him.

Draft pick who makes the big impact

Tristan Wirfs and Antoine Winfield Jr. are currently battling it out to see which rookie will have the biggest impact on the 2020 season. Wirfs should immediately come in and keep Brady upright, while Winfield has drawn rave reviews since the team began training camp. The Bucs have needed better safety play for years, and Winfield should provide it.

Overall expectations

This Buccaneers team should be the best one taking the field at Raymond James Stadium since the Super Bowl group in ’02.

The star power is clear, the coaching staff has been consistent in its message, and the rest of the supporting cast has the ability to step up during big moments. The Super Bowl may be a lofty expectation, but Tampa Bay should be able to make a sufficient push to remain in contention for the better part of the season.

If Tampa Bay can reach the Super Bowl and fulfill everyone’s wildest ambitions, the Bucs would be the first team to ever play on Super Sunday when their stadium is hosting the game.