My Analysis
They will drill them again.
Week one rookie Jayden Daniels started the first game of his career on the road at Tampa Bay, a task for a veteran QB let alone a rookie.
He played OK: He rushed 16 times for 88 yards, went 17 for 24 for 184 yards no TD/no INT's but his defense was god awful in the Bucs 37-20 win.
Tampa Bay ran for 112 but most of the damage was done by Bucs QB Baker Mayfield: 24 for 30 good for 289 yards and 4 touchdowns!!!!!!!
Which brings us to today.
Pop Quiz Sportsfans: Of the 14 teams that made the NFL playoffs, who brings the worst defense in the NFL to the table?
Yup, you guessed it, the Washington Commanders and I believe Mayfield and the Bucs light them up again.
When this Bucs team is "ON", watch out.
Forget the 17 point win over the Commanders week one, how about the 17 point win at home week four over the Eagles 33-16!!!!
How about week 13 putting up 51 on the Saints in the 51-27 win or week 17 putting up 48 at home on the Panthers in the 48-14 win!! !!!
Yes, they lost to the Ravens at home 41-31 but Baker still put up 31 on them!!!!
How about week 15 putting up 41 on the Chargers in LA in another rout 40-17!!!
I just don't see this Washington defense shutting down the Bucks today.
Now this Bucs defense has been hot or cold at times this year and I do I think Daniels will have some success today.
But to ask a rookie QB, to go on the road for the 1st playoff game of his life and expect him to play a clean game for 60 minutes is another thing entirely.
I just dont think that's going to happen, at least not today and if you need a point of reference, see Justin Herbert's performance yesterday!!!!
It's been a great first year for Daniels. It's been a great first year for head coach Dan Quinn. They far exceeded anyone and everyone's expectations.
However, their season ends today as they get beat by the better team, with the better QB, the better defense and the better coach.
Besides, the Commanders haven't won a playoff game since 2006 and have lost their last 5.
Couple of numbers for you: Baker Mayfield is 4-1 ATS in his NFL career, only miss was last year in Detroit by a 1/2 point.
If the Bucs are coming off a SU win but no cover (Saints last week), they are 9-2 ATS next game out.
I am not going against those number today.
And with the win today, the Bucs go to Philly for great rematch in the divisional round providing the Eagles don't wet the bed and lose to the Packers.
But we will get to that game next week.
Lay it as the Bucs getter done for us tonight.