Get Bucky Irving and the running game going
One of Tampa Bay's biggest goals this season is getting its rushing attack back to what it was in 2024, and Sunday provides the first opportunity to see what the offense looks like under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. Bucky Irving is healthy again after injuries limited him last season, while the Bucs also return the same five starting offensive linemen who helped produce one of the NFL's best rushing attacks two years ago, and added a true complement in Kenny Gainwell, who excels both between the tackles and as a pass catcher. Cincinnati made major upgrades to its defensive front with Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen in the middle, so running the football won't necessarily come easy. Tampa Bay still needs to stay committed to it.
Protect Baker Mayfield against Cincinnati's revamped front
The Bengals clearly made improving their defensive line a priority this offseason. Along with Lawrence and Jonathan Allen inside, Cincinnati added Boye Mafe on the edge and has considerably more talent up front than it did a year ago. That puts Tampa Bay's offensive line under the microscope immediately. Mayfield has traditionally played well against Cincinnati, but that becomes much more difficult if he's constantly being forced out of the pocket or dealing with pressure up the middle. Give him time, keep the offense ahead of the chains, and let him work through his progressions against a Cincinnati defense playing its first regular-season game with several new pieces.
Take advantage of Tampa Bay's receiving depth
For the first time in more than a decade, the Bucs are entering a season without Mike Evans. Sunday will provide the first real look at how they plan to replace that production. Chris Godwin Jr. remains the veteran of the group, while Emeka Egbuka is expected to take another step after his impressive rookie season. Jalen McMillan has also made progress returning from his knee injury, but he is listed as doubtful for Week 1. Even so, Tampa Bay still has Tez Johnson and rookie Ted Hurst III.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Three keys for Bucs offense to beat Bengals
