The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are riding a three-game winning-streak after Sunday’s comeback win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Tampa Bay has averaged 33.7 points per game in those wins, but, as usual, things aren’t always as they appear. Despite the big win over the Colts, the Bucs had to play catch-up most of the game thanks to early interceptions by Jameis Winston, who had his first pass attempt of the game picked off and then another taken back 80 yards for a pick-six before halftime.
Winston finished the game with four passing touchdowns, one rushing touchdown and three interceptions, bringing his league-leading total to 23. Fans have been wondering all season long whether the Bucs would bring the former number one pick back after this season. Some will say enough is enough and it’s time to move on, while others feel Winston is still the best option for a Bucs team looking to win now.
And, according to ESPN’s Field Yates, when it comes to the best team fits for 2020 free agents, Tampa Bay still remains the best place for Winston.
Here’s what Yates had to say:
“My own evaluation of Winston is that he is not a starting quarterback whom I’d feel comfortable relying upon for a full 16-game season because of his carelessness with the football. But after evaluating the Buccaneers’ ability to acquire a new signal-caller, seeing their recent comments on Winston and understanding their overall commitment to him over the past five seasons, I’d expect he will be back — with the franchise tag in play.”
It’s no secret that the Bucs brought in head coach and quarterback whisperer Bruce Arians to try and save Winston’s career. It’s certainly been an up-and-down season for the Winston as he adjusts to Arians’ offense. But, as former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer proved, things get better after Year 1 under Arians.
Tampa Bay is hoping the same will be true for Winston, should he return.
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