A simple stat shows a clear area where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to improve in 2024

The other were the 2-15 Carolina Panthers and the 6-11 New York Giants.  Even the offensively anemic New England Patriots and New York Jets managed the feat once.  The Atlanta Falcons, led by Desmond Ridder and Tayler Heinicke at QB last year, totaled 4 opening drive touchdowns.  

So what gives with the Buccaneers?  Part of it likely has to do with the problems the Bucs have had with the running game as far as being able to sustain drives early before wearing teams down.  The Bucs finished dead last in total rushing yards and yards per attempt in 2023.  

Getting the running game fixed has been a point of emphasis for new offensive coordinator Liam Coen this offseason.  However, it will take more than just fixing the ground game to get a better start in games.  It'll take more creative play calling, something that was lacking at times during the season last year.  

It could also take instilling or reinforcing a different mindset.  Sometimes when you struggle in an area, it can become a problem as far as getting out of a rut.  A snowball effect, or a "here we go again" mentality can set in.  I'm not saying that's what's happened with the Bucs, but it's not inconceivable.  

The bottom line is the Bucs have to start better when they get the ball.  Every time they've failed, they've given their opponent an early edge.  Whether that's through scheming, personnel, or otherwise, it simply has to get better in 2024.