Read-Option: Are The Days Numbered?

I think the reason we’re seeing the Buccaneers defense gasping for air, with and without their normal starters, is because of their current philosophy.

But what do you think?

What or who do you think the main culprit of the Bucs defensive deficiencies is? Is it defensive coordinator Mike Smith? Is it Jay Hayes, the defensive line coach for putting all the stunts and twists in with no avail? Is it the players? Robert Ayers? Chris Baker? Gerald McCoy? Do you wish they’d just pick two safeties to start already, and if so, which ones?

Do you think this is a style or scheme problem, or do you think it run deeper? Do you think part of this is on general manager Jason Licht for bringing in the wrong players?

Do you think the Bucs need to bring in a new coach to change the defensive culture? Were you hoping they did that this offseason maybe with Smith’s departure to be a head coach?

There are a lot of questions there, but there are a lot of questions as to why things aren’t working.

I’ve told you some of mine, now it’s time to hear yours.

Who’s to blame – or maybe we’re all overreacting – and what needs to be done to fix it (this season and long-term)?