Ahead of the Denver Broncos’ game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, we asked Andrew Harbaugh of Bucs Wire five questions about Tampa Bay and Sunday’s showdown at Raymond James Stadium. Check out our questions and Harbaugh’s answers below.
1. Baker Mayfield’s resurgence has been impressive to watch. Do you think the Bucs have their long-term answer at QB?
I really do, and if we are being honest, he should have been the long-term answer in Cleveland as well. He has seemingly fit in perfectly with the franchise and the structure of things led by Todd Bowles. When you watch him, you can tell that he is processing the plays better and faster, even when they break down. He may never have the most passing yards or touchdowns, but he could be the model of consistency that most teams are desperate to find in the NFL.
2. Does Tampa Bay have any notable weaknesses that Denver might be able to exploit?
The interior of the offensive line, specifically the guard positions, has been an issue this year. The Bucs also are missing their starting right tackle, Luke Goedeke and his replacement gave up five sacks to Aidan Hutchison alone in Week 2. Yes, five sacks to one player. So, with that being said, the pass rush could create problems for the Bucs.
3. Sean Payton said RB Bucky Irving “really made a good impression” at Bo Nix’s pro day this spring. How has Irving looked for the Bucs?
Bucky Irving has honestly been a blast to watch with the Bucs and is a perfect complement to Rachaad White. They have the thunder and lightning, with White being the lightning dynamic playmaker. Irving has been bringing the thunder with power runs on shirt third downs and has been extra beneficial in pass protection as well.
4. Who is an underrated Tampa Bay player that Broncos fans should be aware of this week?
Zyon McCollum is a Bucs cornerback who just last week had his first interception of his career. Over the last two weeks, he has become the team’s number one corner and has played a significant number of snaps in the process. Look for him to mirror Courtland Sutton and also be schemed uniquely in zone coverage packages.
5. What’s your prediction for Sunday — who wins and why?
I don’t want to come off as arrogant, but I may sound it anyway: I don’t see this being that close of a game. It is a trap game for the Bucs, so perhaps they get caught, but this team has great veteran leadership and a coaching staff keeping them level-headed. I think Mayfield has a big game with the rushing attack, which also helps control time of possession. My score prediction is 31 to 13 for the Bucs in a one-sided affair.
The Broncos’ game against the Buccaneers will be regionally televised on Fox. Denver is considered a road underdog in Week 3.
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