49ers' red-hot backup Mac Jones aims to keep streak alive against Buccaneers

The Buccaneers boast the eighth-best run defense, according to Pro Football Focus. However, their secondary is depleted with injuries to starters Benjamin Morrison and Zyon McCollum. In addition, linebackers Lavonte David and SirVocea Dennis are two of the worst coverage players at their respective positions.

Through five games, David has a putrid 39.7 coverage grade while giving up 18 receptions, 164 yards, three touchdowns and a 118.9 passer rating when targeted, per Pro Football Focus. Dennis is performing even worse by allowing 21 receptions, 331 yards, one touchdown and a 133.2 passer rating to the track of a 28.2 coverage grade — by far the lowest in the NFL.

The Buccaneers should ultimately be able to slow down Christian McCaffrey and the 49ers' rushing attack, putting more pressure on Jones to carry the offense. Yet, with the Buccaneers’ defense injured and struggling in coverage, expectations are for another high-end display of Jones’ passing prowess.

According to Pro Football Focus, Jones is completing 79% of his attempts with two touchdowns and 483 yards, targeting the middle of the field this season — another reason to believe in Jones' chances of success. 

The 49ers and Buccaneers matchup promises to be a highlight amid the Week 6 slate, especially with quarterbacks Jones and Baker Mayfield going head-to-head. Although each team's defense will have a large hand in the outcome, the quarterback battle cannot be overlooked, and it might shockingly favor Jones on Sunday.