Buccaneers' Zyon McCollum explains what it's like to play in a monsoon

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have looked fantastic the past two weeks, outscoring NFC South rival Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons 59-13. They've leaned on their running back duo of Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell, embracing the kind of smash-mouth football that is difficult to stop late in games. 

They also have the No. 1-ranked defense per EPA/play, via SumerSports and Shawn Syed.

Zyon McCollum had more receptions than the entire Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense, with his interception being Michael Penix Jr.'s fourth of the afternoon with 13:31 remaining in the fourth quarter. 

Playing through the elements

Beneath the strategic challenges and all the equipment adjustments, McCollum found something enjoyable about playing in the monsoon. The conditions reminded him why many athletes fall in love with the sport of football in the first place. 

"I feel like just being a ball player in that type of environment, it's both a dream and like a challenge at the same time," McCollum said on the "Chris Simms Unbuttoned" podcast. "The kid in me just wants to run around and slide around in the mud all day and jump in puddles ... Play that different, grimy, nasty game."

While poor weather affects every position differently, defensive backs often face one of the steeper adjustments. A single slip can turn airtight coverage into an explosive play on the third level of the defense, making traction and footwork a high priority throughout the game.

"As a DB, you want to be clean, good footwork, be able to get in and out of breaks," he said. "You know you're going to have to change your cleats and put the studs in." 

The Bucs began the 2026 regular season 1-5 and now sit at 3-5. Their defense now ranks second in defensive DVOA, third on special teams, and fifth overall, via Aaron Schatz.

McCollum attributed the positive turnaround to "staying consistent" and continuing to stay focused on the details. He noted that every defeat came by a single possession, adding that the adversity ultimately helped the team discover their identity.