We’re finally here; everybody’s favorite time of year, playoff time. The Buccaneers had quite a regular season, from numerous ups and downs to off-field (and even on-field) antics and controversies, this past season has been anything but dull. The Buccaneers finished with an outstanding 13-4 record and topped the NFC South. To be honest, I had expected them to go undefeated this season, but I’m glad they didn’t, because the losses provided some outstanding lessons to the team, lessons we could carry into the playoffs.
Speaking of playoffs, our first opponent is the Jaylen Hurts-led Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles are that scrappy team that barely gets into the playoffs, but can still give you a run for your money. Many football fans may be confident that for the Buccaneers, this is going to be as easy as eating Sweet Potato Pie in Momma’s kitchen; I’d have to go ahead and disagree.
Even though Philadelphia comes in as the heavy underdog, I would look at them as anything but. With so much to prove, this team may just pull a rabbit out of the hat and make it tougher than expected for our beloved Buccaneers. Add to the fact that the Buccaneers are dealing with a slew of injuries, this task doesn’t get any easier.
For the Eagles, their run game has been one of the absolute best this season. The team from Philadelphia has established a real running powerhouse, consistently making opponents pay and exposing them at the line. The Bucs were one of the best defenses as stopping the run, but if you were reading that you would have noticed that I said “we’re”.
The Buccaneer’s defense has allowed 92.5 rushing yards per game this season, which isn’t a small number. On Sunday they face one of the best rushing systems in the NFL, so hopefully, they can figure out a way to stop them. If not this game may turn out different from what we expected.
The one thing that will help the Buccaneers (if they do it right) is playing to their strengths, meaning if Brady goes off and unleashes an aerial attack. The Eagles have one of the worst short-pass defenses in the league, coming in 31st for completions allowed. In saying that, they are one of the best teams in not allowing receivers to beat them on long passes. Brady will have to utilize this information and play the short game.
Overall, this will be one of the most interesting and exciting games to watch this Sunday. I personally think the Eagles can stage a massive upset. I’m not sure why I feel that way, I just do. I also know not to bet against Tom Brady, so I’m also thinking this will end up as another easy win in his playoff success column. All I’m saying is the Eagles can really come out and lay a surprise. “Til next time!