At this point, I’ll take the wins any way they can get them.  The Bucs picked up an ugly win today over the Arizona Cardinals, 20-17.

This game did little to inspire us fans about the stretch run, but Tampa Bay stays in first place, a half-game ahead of the fast-charging Panthers, who upset the Rams at home.

Here’s the good: Bucky Irving returned, and scored a touchdown (and had another nullified by a penalty.)  The Bucs did not turn the ball over.  Baker Mayfield’s only touchdown pass went to…Tristan Wirfs.  Yes, the left tackle eligible caught a TD pass.  Like I said, I’ll take ‘em any way we can get ‘em.  Defensively, they got a couple of turnovers.

Now the bad: the pass defense is still atrocious.  Too many Arizona receivers were running wide open.  At times, they let the Cardinals march up and down the field with little difficulty.  Thank goodness for the turnovers.  And for a change, Todd Bowles’ unit did NOT let Arizona go down the field at the end for a game-tying or go-ahead score.  There were also too many penalties against TB. Chris Godwin, who had a nice game overall, dropped an easy touchdown in the second quarter.

Next week, the Bucs host the Saints.  The Panthers have their bye.  So, after next Sunday, Tampa Bay will either have a one-game lead in the NFC South, or they’ll be tied with Carolina.  The Bucs and Panthers still play each other twice.

Photo courtesy: Tampa Bay Buccaneers