This was a game the Bucs could have won.  But they were done in by some bad play-calling and the inability to stop the big play.  Final score – 28-23.

Let me jump right to late in the fourth quarter.  With about 5 minutes to do, Tykee Smith picked off Drake Maye in the end zone.  Tampa Bay proceeded to march to the Patriots’ 27.  They had 3^rd and 3 at the 2:00 warning.  They could not get three yards in two plays.  Why not run it on 3^rd down?  They had success on the ground in this game.  And if you don’t get the first down, then you pass on 4^th.  And naturally, right after the turnover on downs, the Patriots broke another long run to put the game out of reach.

That brings me to my second point, regarding the so-called defensive genius, Todd Bowles (I have NEVER felt that way about him.)  When you give up three touchdowns of 50+ yards, you’re going to get beat more often than not. 

Oh well, on to Buffalo next week.  The Bills were upset by Miami today, so I’m sure they’ll be in a wonderful mood.

Photo courtesy: Tampa Bay Buccaneers