Buccaneers Must Bounce Back in Week 2

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could not ask for a much different opponent in Week 2.

Tampa Bay Gets a Better Matchup

After facing one of the AFC’s strongest offenses in Cincinnati, Tampa Bay welcomes the Cleveland Browns. Cleveland struggled badly in its opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Browns lost 34-10 in that matchup. Deshaun Watson also struggled during his return, taking five sacks and throwing an interception.

That represents a significant change from the challenge Tampa Bay faced against Joe Burrow. The Buccaneers should have a better opportunity to make life difficult for Cleveland’s offense.

The Offensive Talent Drops Off

The difference in offensive firepower between Cincinnati and Cleveland is significant. Burrow presents a much different challenge than Watson currently does.

The same can be said about the receiving groups. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins provide a considerably tougher test than Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion right now.

Boston and Concepcion could eventually reach that level. At this point, though, Cincinnati’s top receivers remain the stronger options.

That should give Tampa Bay’s defense a chance to recover from its disappointing opener.

Buccaneers Need to Take Advantage

The matchup itself is not the only advantage Tampa Bay will have. The Buccaneers also return home after opening the season on the road.

That combination should give Tampa Bay an opportunity to respond quickly. The defense, in particular, should look better against a less dangerous opponent.

There is no room for another disappointing performance. The Buccaneers need to put Week 1 behind them and take care of business against Cleveland.

This is a game Tampa Bay needs to win. The matchup is more favorable, the team is back home, and the defense has an opportunity to prove Week 1 was an early stumble.