The Buccaneers beat themselves today when it mattered most.  They were done in by some key mistakes while suffering their first loss of the season to the Eagles, 31-25.

First off, the Bucs need to do something with their special teams.  For the second week in a row, they had a kick blocked and returned for a touchdown.  Last week, it was a field goal.  Today, it was a punt on the opening possession.  There was also a penalty that negated a long return.  Another punt was shanked.  They need to do something, because special teams was a major factor in this loss.

But let’s not forget the turnovers.  There were 2 of them – both costly.  First, Bucky Irving’s fumble led to an Eagles’ touchdown.  Then in the 4^th quarter, with the Bucs driving for a potential tying score, Baker Mayfield forced a throw and was picked off in the end zone.  He would’ve been better off throwing it away.

There was another decision that bothered me that you may not have thought about much now.  It was 24-6 in the third quarter, so you’re down by 3 scores.  The Bucs were in field goal range, and Chase McLaughlin had already kicked a 65-yard field goal.  Why wouldn’t you take the points and cut the lead to 15?  You’re going to need a field goal at some point.  Instead, Tampa Bay went for it, and turned it over on downs.

So, the Bucs are 3-1 at the quarter mark.  I’m okay with that.  Maybe we’ll see Philly again in the playoffs.  Maybe.

Photo courtesy: Tampa Bay Buccaneers