What Frank Reich has planned for the Bucs' defense
About the only thing that seems to excite offensive coordinator Frank Reich more than his own group of players is who they’ll be facing. Reich called Bowles “a legendary defensive coach,” and said Tampa is a perfect opponent to give the new system its first real-world test drive.
“We couldn't be going up against a better defense,” Reich said enthusiastically. “This defense is always notoriously very good against the run. Just good in general.”
Some of that praise may be a bit overblown. Tampa’s defense ranked 19th overall last year but 5th against the run. The linchpin of that group, tackle Vita Vea, has been a hold-in and has requested a trade so it’s unlikely he will participate in these joint practices.
Reich said they are “spending a little bit of time” on Tampa, but the focus will mostly be on the Jets.
“We're not super game-planning for them,” he said. It’s just more run our core plays, win our one-on-one battles, execute our basic core schemes, and then learn from them.”
Tom Rock began covering sports for Newsday in 1996 and became its NFL columnist in 2022. He previously was Newsday's Giants beat writer beginning in 2008.
Out East Show: Westhampton Beach Brew & Grille, Hallockville Museum Farm Bees, North Fork Foodie Tour, Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.
