Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles will not change his offensive coaching staff or play-calling responsibilities during the team's Week 10 bye, despite an inconsistent offense that has contributed to a 3-6 record.
According to Greg Auman, Bowles confirmed Monday that he intends to keep the current coaching structure, leaving offensive coordinator Zac Robinson to call plays as Tampa Bay heads into the second half of its season.
The decision follows Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Chicago Bears, when the Buccaneers forced five turnovers but failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Tampa Bay finished with 352 offensive yards, converted just two of 12 third-down attempts and committed eight penalties, including five false starts.
Quarterback
Baker Mayfield completed 18 of 32 passes for 243 yards and two interceptions, including a 67-yard interception return for a touchdown by Chicago cornerback Jaylon Johnson. The Buccaneers also rushed for 126 yards, but offensive mistakes kept them from capitalizing on their defense's five takeaways.
Bowles expects offensive adjustments despite keeping staff intact
Although Bowles is keeping the coaching structure intact, he made it clear the Buccaneers need to reevaluate their offensive approach during the bye.
According to the Tampa Bay Times' coverage of Monday's press conference, Bowles emphasized examining whether the team's play designs suit Mayfield, along with the quarterback's mechanics, decision-making, and comfort with the calls.
Turnovers, pass protection and penalties are also priorities. The five false starts against Chicago repeatedly put Tampa Bay behind schedule, while Mayfield's interceptions undermined a defensive performance that included four takeaways through the air.
The Buccaneers enter their bye leading the NFL in rushing at 163.9 yards per game, but last in passing at 141.9 yards per game. That imbalance has put additional pressure on Robinson to find ways to produce more consistently through the air.
Tampa Bay has eight games remaining and sits just half a game behind Carolina and New Orleans in the NFC South. Bowles is keeping the same offensive leadership, but the team must improve its passing efficiency, protect the football, and reduce penalties if it hopes to turn its remaining divisional opportunities into a playoff push.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Todd Bowles won't change Bucs offensive staff or playcalling
