Beyond providing data for all 32 NFL teams, PFF also supports network broadcasters with game-preview packets that are used to enhance the in-game experience for fans and viewers. This Buccaneers-Bears preview features the same information our broadcast partners use for team research and in-game production.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Chicago Bears – 1:00 PM on FOX
Tampa's triple threat
Tampa Bay boasts a receiver trio that is all performing at an impressive level. Desean Jackson, Mike Evans, and Chris Godwin are each among PFF's top five highest-graded wide receivers, with Desean Jackson’s 91.4 grade at number one overall.
Howard breaking out
O.J. Howard has taken a sizeable step forward in his second year. He currently grades out as PFF’s top tight end, and his 3.31 yards per route run ranks first among players at the position.
David stopping the run
Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David has turned a glaring weakness into a clear strength. After ranking in the bottom third of the league in run defense in 2015 and 2016, David posted the highest run defense grade among linebackers in 2017. David currently grades out at 77.6, sixth-best among linebackers in 2018.
Evans showing promise
Justin Evans should be a key contributor in limiting the Bears' passing attack, as he's seen a notable improvement in his coverage grade in 2018. After finishing 2017 with a 54.5 coverage grade, 80th among 90 qualifying safeties, he currently sits at 81.6, 6th out of 87 qualifying safeties.
Trubisky coming up short
Mitchell Trubisky has struggled when it counts the most this season. He has a grade of 41.0 on third downs, ranking 32nd, and his passer rating of 81.6 on third down ranks 17th. He will have to make the plays when it counts to keep up with the Bucs' high-octane offense.
Howard bouncing back
Jordan Howard is off to a great start in 2018. He currently has a rushing grade of 77.3, which is more than 10 points higher than his 2017 mark and ranks fourth among running backs this season. His elusive rating and yards after contact have also slightly improved compared to last season.
Shutting down the run
Chicago's defense as a whole looks completely rejuvenated ever since Mack came to town. The defense has swarmed the ball on run plays, as they currently tackle the ball-carrier at an average of 2.87 yards past the line of scrimmage, ranking second in the league.
Callahan's shining in the slot
Bryce Callahan has been excellent in the slot for the past few years, consistently finishing among the league-leaders in yards allowed per slot coverage snap. This season, Callahan is allowing 0.49 yards per cover snap, ranking sixth among cornerbacks. He will have one of his toughest tests this week against Fitzmagic and the Bucs.
Key matchup
PFF Greenline has projections for the spread, moneyline and over/under of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' matchup with the Chicago Bears. Get its picks here.
© 2024 PFF - all rights reserved.