I am going to cut right to the chase, and jump right to the final minute of the 4^th quarter.

The Buccaneers had 1^st and goal at the San Francisco 9.  They were down by 3.  A touchdown would give them the lead.  The next two play calls were…handoffs to Rachaad White.  Why?  Why are you not even taking a shot at the end zone?  And if you are going to run it, why doesn’t Bucky Irving get a touch.  Once again, Todd Bowles played for the tie instead of going for the win.  And once again, he got burned.

The 49ers got the ball back with :41 left, with one timeout, and only needing a field goal to win.  Was there any doubt what the outcome would be?  Nope.  Kicker Jake Moody – who missed three field goals earlier in the game – made one as time expired.

The Bucs’ offense struggled today.  But that is not my point.  This is the third game they have lost primarily because, in my opinion, Bowles mismanaged the end of the game.  I really do not see how he survives after this season.  To make the playoffs, they would have to win at least 6 of their last 7, if not run the table.  With Bowles and his Swiss cheese defense, do you expect that to happen?  I don’t.  I hope my comment comes back to haunt me.

The Bucs have their bye next week.  At least they won’t lose then.

Photo courtesy: Tampa Bay Buccaneers