Bengals vs. Buccaneers Behind Enemy Lines: Bucs’ change at defensive coordinator could help their struggling secondary

The Buccaneers made a change at defensive coordinator recently, and Gil Arcia thinks it could help a struggling secondary.

With the Bengals getting ready to host the Buccaneers this week we got Gil Arcia of Bucs Nation to answer a few question in order to get his perspective of the matchup this week.

Patrick Judis: What is the confidence level in Jameis Winston after the clock struck midnight on Ryan Fitzpatrick?

Gil Arcia: The confidence in Jameis is still pretty high. The team stands behind him and more importantly, ownership has been very supportive of him. They understand the importance of a franchise quarterback and the organization feels they have that in him.

PJ: What is going on with the Buccaneers running game?

GA: I honestly have no clue. The offensive line is great in pass protection, but can’t get any push in the run game. Last season was different where they were able to. There is just one difference, really, in the addition of center Ryan Jensen and moving Ali Marpet to left guard this season. However, there are major problems in the run game and I’m honestly not sure if they can fix it at this point of the season.

PJ: What is the biggest weak spot on Tampa Bay’s defense?

GA: Definitely the secondary. Veteran Brent Grimes isn’t the same and constant injuries has forced different packages and rotation within the unit. Second-year safety Justin Evans has been a bright spot. But the change in defensive coordinators has provided some sense of optimism because Mark Duffner called plays to the strength of the defense last Sunday against Cleveland. We’ll see if that continues.

PJ: Is there someone who has been playing well this season on either side of the ball that you feel doesn’t get enough national attention?

GA: Definitely think safety Justin Evans deserves to be mentioned more often. He has really come on as a young safety in the league. You can even make the same case for lineman Ali Marpet. His contract extension proves his worth and this year has been getting it done quietly.

PJ: What is your prediction for the game?

GA: I feel the Bucs will lose this game, 27-23.

Thanks again to Gil Arcia of Bucs Nation for taking the time out to answer our questions. You can find more of his work here.

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