Offensive line: pass protection struggled, run game offered some promise
The Buccaneers’ offensive line is widely regarded as a potential top unit when healthy. In the game against Cincinnati, that potential didn’t translate on pass plays. According to Next Gen Stats, Cincinnati blitzed Baker Mayfield on 11.1% of dropbacks, a relatively low blitz rate, yet Mayfield was pressured on 38.9% of dropbacks and sacked four times. Those sack and pressure rates ranked among the higher marks for the week, highlighting a breakdown in protection.
Postgame, left tackle Tristan Wirfs acknowledged the issues, emphasizing the need to stay inside and keep the quarterback protected, while also encouraging Mayfield to step into his throws and stay locked in against the rush. The other blockers also faced challenges. Luke Goedeke couldn’t win his early one-on-one matchup, and Cody Mauch and Ben Bredeson each registered multiple pressures on 39 pass snaps, with Bredeson allowing a sack as well. Despite the struggles in pass protection, the running game showed some positive signs. The Buccaneers moved the line of scrimmage enough to create opportunities for running back Bucky Irving, yielding a few productive runs. Kenny Gainwell’s ground work was less efficient, reflecting inconsistency in the rushing attack. Overall, the run blocking was steadier than pass protection, but the unit must improve quickly to support the offense.
Defensive line/EDGE: pass rush and frontline pressure underwhelmed
On the defensive side, the pass rush failed to generate consistent pressure. The group did not sack the quarterback until late in the third quarter, and their four-man rush did not consistently disrupt Cincinnati’s pocket. Calijah Kancey led the line with four total pressures, while Al-Quadin Muhammad totaled two; beyond that, no defender reached more than one pressure in the game. Several players, including Rueben Bain Jr., recorded zero pressures on 24 pass-rush snaps, underscoring a collective struggle to apply pressure.
In the run game, the front seven performed better than in the pass rush. Cincinnati totalled 106 rushing yards, with 25 of those yards coming on two plays, including a 12-yard draw by Joe Burrow. Bengals running backs averaged 3.62 yards per carry on 21 attempts (76 rushing yards), indicating that the Buccaneers’ run defense was steadier than their pass rush, though not perfect. When the game’s script favored the run, the defense held up relatively well, but the overall performance highlighted a need for more disruption up front.
Overall takeaway: the line play on both sides needs to rise to the level expected of a talented roster. In a league where “it starts up front” is a common motto, the Buccaneers’ trenches must reclaim their footing to turn losses into wins. With Week 2 looming against the Browns, there is a clear opportunity to address protection, get healthier, and restore the line’s effectiveness in both preventing pressure and enabling the running game.
Outlook
If the Buccaneers can tighten up pass protection, improve consistency from the edge rush, and maintain a credible run game, the defense and offense can synergize to rebound in the upcoming matchup. The personnel remains strong, and with coaching adjustments and a corrective game plan, this unit has the potential to return to form and help push the team back into a favorable competitive position.
