Important Buccaneers players have perfect start to the preseason
The preseason was always going to be about one group for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; the depth. Sure, players like Baker Mayfield and Luke Goedeke were going to live under the limelight, but seeing how the depth could interact against some Steelers starters was always going to be the best information to glean from a […]
The preseason was always going to be about one group for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; the depth.
Sure, players like Baker Mayfield and Luke Goedeke were going to live under the limelight, but seeing how the depth could interact against some Steelers starters was always going to be the best information to glean from a game like this.
The good news for Tampa is that their depth guys showed out in all of the right ways.
For starters, Deven Thompkins, Trey Palmer, and YaYa Diaby looked like the three best players on the field for Tampa.
Palmer and Thompkins were able to get open at will while being the main target for Baker Mayfield during the first few drives, and the skillsets and ability to get open look like they will translate well to the depth roles that they are sure to fill in a month.
Also, Palmer's touchdown catch was probably one of the most impressive plays by a Bucs depth guy on offense in a long time.
On the defensive end of the ball, Diaby wasn't able to get to the quarterback for a sack, but it was obvious from the start that he was able to get to the quarterback and will and create pressures. The rookie out of Louisville is going to be an excellent fourth pass-rusher this season if this game is any indication.
Outside of this group, guys like Zyon McCollum were able to flash some quality plays as well, especially when McCollum was able to secure an interception with great positioning.
There were some moments of confusion for McCollum, as expected, but the overall product still points to a guy that should fit in well with the defense down the road.
Overall, tonight was a good night for the Buccaneers as they see what they have behind their starters.
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Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports