Ball security; QB protection 1st half problem for Bucs in Cincinnati

Despite a promising start from both the offense and defense on their respective opening appearances, things quickly went downhill for the Buccaneers in Cincinnati.

In the first half alone, the Buccaneers gave up two sacks and fumbled three different times. Newly paid Baker Mayfield fumbled twice, with Bucky Irving having his own sandwiched between them. The Buccaneers failed to recover any of the three.

The Cincinnati defense has been dominant up front, pressuring Mayfield at will. Things do not look much better defensively for the Buccaneers as Burrow picks them apart despite internal excitement for the new defensive lineup assembled by Bowles and company.

A lot about their play must change very quickly for the Buccaneers if they are to have a chance to reel this game back in.