When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers line up against the Buffalo Bills, the defensive game plan will have to be airtight. For the Buccaneers to keep this one within reach, they’ll need a disciplined, physical, and opportunistic defensive effort. Here are the three biggest keys to slowing down Buffalo’s high-powered attack.
Contain Josh Allen – Don’t Just Sack Him
It’s no secret that Josh Allen is one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks. He’s capable of turning broken plays into highlight runs or extending downs long enough to find an open receiver deep downfield.The Bucs’ first priority must be containment, not just pressure. Edge rushers like Yaya Diaby and Anthony Nelson have to rush with controlled aggression by collapsing the pocket without giving Allen an escape lane. Inside, Vita Vea and rookie Elijah Roberts need to generate push up the middle to prevent Allen from stepping up.
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Spying on Allen on key downs might also be necessary. If Tampa Bay can limit his scrambles and force him to win strictly from the pocket, they’ll drastically cut down Buffalo’s explosive plays.
Win Early Downs to Force Third-and-Long
The Bills’ offense hums when they’re in rhythm with quick throws, RPOs, and short runs that set up easy third downs. Tampa Bay’s defense has to flip that script by winning on first and second down.
Stopping the run early will be crucial.
Buffalo likes to use their ground game to keep defenses honest, especially with James Cook’s speed on outside runs. The Bucs’ front seven, anchored by Lavonte David, must attack gaps, wrap up tackles, and keep Buffalo behind the sticks.
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If the Bills are forced into third-and-7 or longer, the Bucs’ pass rush can tee off and Todd Bowles can get creative with blitz looks. Buffalo’s offensive line has been inconsistent in pass protection, so Tampa Bay needs to take advantage when those long-yardage situations arise.
The Buccaneers’ defense doesn’t need to dominate, but disrupt.
Containing Josh Allen, winning on early downs, and limiting explosive plays from Shakir and company will give Tampa Bay a fighting chance.
If they can make Allen uncomfortable and force him into mistakes, turnovers could tilt the game in the Bucs’ favor. But if the defense loses contain or allows Allen to dictate tempo, the Bills’ offense will find ways to punish them all night long. Execution, discipline, and communication, that’s the formula for the Bucs’ defense if they want to leave Buffalo with a win.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Keys for the Bucs’ defense against the Bills’ offense in Week 11
