OFFENSE
1) The Bucs must finish drives.
The first series of the game was almost eight minutes long, and yet the offense only managed to put up a field goal. Penalties and a lack of execution prevented the Bucs from finishing throughout the game. With only nine total possessions, the Bucs needed to take advantage of each drive.2) McCown was the team's leading rusher
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The Buccaneers need to put together a balanced offensive attack in order to effectively execute their gameplan. The offense was unable to establish the run against Atlanta, which hurt them throughout the game. After analyzing the offensive line, I believe they need to continue to build their chemistry in order to win the battle at the line of scrimmage.
3) Turnovers and penalties were a big issue.
Losing the turnover battle was a huge factor in the loss on Sunday. In addition to turnovers, killing drives with holding, offsides, and personal/unsportsmanlike fouls will prevent any team from winning.DEFENSE
1) First down yards for the Falcons were instrumental.
Winning the first down battle, especially against Matt Ryan, is vital for a defense. Even when the Falcons decided to run, Steven Jackson's 5-7 yard gains on first down allowed them to stick to their gameplan, and string together long drives against the Bucs.2) Pressure from the Bucs' front four wasn't there on Sunday
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Like most quarterbacks, Matt Ryan needs to be pushed out of the pocket to get him off his game. The overall lack of pressure allowed him to have success in the passing game, especially on third down.
3) The Falcons were 50% on third down.
On third and long, when the defense had an advantage, the Bucs couldn't find a way to get off the field. Whether it was a penalty, slow reaction in coverage, or simply a missed tackle, the team struggled on these key downs.
The Bucs are now 1-8. The biggest hurdle for this Buccaneer team moving forward will be the mental hurdle. When a team starts piling losses together, it is critical to dig deep and overcome the negative mentality. There aren't many factors that separate teams from being 7-2 or 1-8. The one constant is execution, and when the Bucs figure out how to execute for four quarters, the wins will come.
Behind the scenes photos from the Buccaneers vs. Falcons game at Raymond James Stadium.
