While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have won two of their first three games this season, they are doing it unexpectedly.
Their defense has been impressive by limiting opponents to nine points per game.
Despite their Week 3 loss, the Green Bay Packers only scored 14 points.
The Buccaneers defense is ranked fourth in total yards allowed with 289 per game.
They are also fifth-best in rushing yards allowed (79.3 per game) and first in points allowed.
That’s a surprising dynamic for a team that was expected to dominate on offense.
However, Tom Brady ranks 22nd in passing yards with 673, and their 17 points per game put them in the 24th spot.
Injuries to their wide receivers might be a reason for their offensive struggles.
Chris Godwin and Julio Jones, two of their top wideouts, are dealing with knee injuries.
But Tampa Bay Times writer Rick Stroud has some positive news about those two receivers.
Coach Todd Bowles said he believed Julio Jones and Chris Godwin will practice at some level today, not so sure about Donovan Smith
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) September 28, 2022
Stroud tweeted, “Coach Todd Bowles said he believed Julio Jones and Chris Godwin will practice at some level today, not so sure about Donovan Smith.”
Aside from Jones and Godwin, Russell Gage has issues with his hamstring.
Breshad Perriman is nursing a knee injury, and Scotty Miller is dealing with some calf issues.
Injuries to their wide receivers prompted the Buccaneers to sign Cole Beasley to their practice squad.
Beasley had three receptions for 12 yards against the Packers.
Will The Buccaneers Limp To A Playoff Berth?
Things are not looking good for the Buccaneers offensively because they are putting up just 297.3 yards per game (sixth-worst in the league).
But they are hoping that all their receivers will be healthy in time for a postseason push.
It would be hard to defeat them if their top wideouts are playing at full strength.
But before thinking about the playoffs, they must first bounce back in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
NEXT: Tom Brady Is Showing The Effects Of A Long Career