5 toughest defenses on Bengals schedule in 2022
By Ty Robbins
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went through some changes in the offseason. The big news came when quarterback Tom Brady had a change of heart and decided to play another year. Even more significant than that was Todd Bowles turning over his defensive coordinator duties to become the Bucs’ head coach. Will this have an effect on their defense?
The heart and soul of the Buccaneers’ defense is their line led by massive present all-pro defensive tackle Vita Vea. He often demands double teams, which will give opportunities to Will Gholston, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, and second-round draft pick rookie Logan Hall. This line makes for a well-built rotation in the trenches and a solid run-stopping unit.
The Bucs also signed former Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks to join their line. His career has been affected by injuries limiting him to just five games in 2019 and nine last season. He may or not be a factor by Week 15 when the Bengals roll into town.
Cincinnati will need to consider the Bucs linebacking corps of Shaq Barrett, Lavonte David, and Devin White. This group no doubt can factor in the middle of the field. Still, the Bengals have way too many weapons for everyone to cover.
What does the secondary look like for the Bucs? Safeties Antoine Winfield and Logan Ryan are a poised veteran group that holds this group together. They, along with cornerbacks, will be tested by the Bengals high powered offensive.