The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are rolling into Week 6 on the back of a solid 24-16 win against the Dallas Cowboys, and guess who absolutely went off in that game? Running back Bucky Irving, who gashed Dallas for a staggering 165 yards. That’s a huge problem for Pittsburgh, because according to Curt Popejoy over at Steelers Wire, Pittsburgh’s defense has a real issue with tackling, and they’re just as likely to backslide this week as they are to shut down another run game.
Aaron Rodgers Is Here, But This Offense Runs Through Warren
Look, the Steelers brought in veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and you’d think he’d completely change their offensive identity. But Popejoy points out it’s more about Mike McCarthy’s system suiting Rodgers, not a total overhaul. The real game-changer in the passing game has been how much more they’re using the tight ends, and honestly, that’s done wonders for opening up the run game. And who’s making the most of it? Jaylen Warren, without a doubt. He’s been the team MVP, stepping up huge after Rico Dowdle got hurt and taking over as the feature back. Changes on the right side of the offensive line have helped, but right now, this offense goes through Warren. Keep an eye out for rookie wide receiver Germie Bernard, too. He’s getting his first start this week, and the buzz is he’s a “pretty special talent.” The tight ends are solid when called on, too.
The Special Teams Are Toast and the Defense Is Vulnerable
While the offense has some bright spots, the Steelers’ defense and special teams are a real concern. Popejoy laid it out flat: Pittsburgh’s special teams unit has “stunk this year.” The spark is just gone, especially since former special teams coordinator Danny Smith, along with Miles Killebrew, packed up and moved to Tampa Bay. It’s clearly a coaching issue more than a personnel one, and it’s a huge hole the Buccaneers could exploit. On defense, they did a great job stopping Jonathan Taylor last week, but their struggles with tackling are a recurring nightmare. With Irving coming off a monster game, that vulnerability against the run is a flashing red light for Pittsburgh.
This game really comes down to a few key battles. Popejoy is zeroing in on the Buccaneers’ receivers going up against a banged-up Steelers secondary. That’s an advantage Tampa Bay might be able to press. On the flip side, the Steelers’ edge defenders against the Bucs’ offensive tackles is going to be a trench war. If Pittsburgh wants to win this one, Popejoy thinks it’ll have to be on their defense. But even with all their problems, he’s giving the edge to the team with the “better quarterback.” That says a lot about the faith in Rodgers, despite the team’s struggles in other areas. This Week 6 showdown has some serious implications for both teams early in the season, and it’s going to be wild to see which unit steps up and which folds under pressure.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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