A behind-the-scenes look at the Buccaneers' game against the Cowboys.
1. Kwon Alexander was on a mission.
Entering Week 15, Alexander had 86 solo tackles, the most in the league. Alexander picked up 21 tackles against Dallas, 11 of which were solo, to move into the top five in the NFL in total tackles and extend his lead in solo tackles. His 21 tackles were the most by any player in a single game all year. Alexander also had a forced fumble in the Bucs' loss to Dallas.
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- Keith Tandy's earned a spot.**
In Weeks 13 and 14, Tandy had the opportunity to start in place of Chris Conte, who was sidelined with a chest injury. In those two games, Tandy recorded 15 tackles, two late-game interceptions and deflected four passes. Tandy's interception against the Saints helped him earn the Castrol Edge Clutch Performer of the Week Award, becoming the second Tampa Bay player to win the honor this season. With Conte healthy, Tandy still got the start against Dallas and recorded 14 tackles.
3. The Bucs held on in the passing game, but not in the running game.
The Bucs' passing offense went head-to-head with Dallas'; Tampa Bay had 12 passing first downs and 224 yards while the Cowboys had 14 first downs through the air and 264 yards. But the Bucs were out-gained on the ground, 185 yards to 52. Dallas averaged more than twice as many yards per carry and, with that, controlled the ball for 12 more minutes.
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- Cam Brate is emerging as one of the league's most productive pass-catching tight ends. **
Brate was the Bucs' leading receiver against the Cowboys, catching five passes for 73 yards and a touchdown on eight targets. He is tied for the league-lead in touchdowns for tight ends with seven and is in the top 10 in receptions (10th) and receiving yards (7th). Brate has converted first downs on 69.6 percent of his catches, the third-most of any tight end with 35 or more receptions.
5. Roberto Aguayo is finding a groove.
In his past three games, Aguayo has connected on seven of his last eight field goal tries and all of his extra point attempts. He was a perfect two-for-two against Dallas, booting kicks from 34 and 25 yards. Twelve of his 16 kickoffs over the past three weeks have resulted in touchbacks.