Despite a great showing by running back Leonard Fournette (101 all-purpose yards, 1 touchdown) and their defense, the Buccaneers fell short against the Pittsburgh Steelers, losing 20-18 in Week 6. The most obvious problem Tampa Bay had was its inability to benefit from excursions into the red zone. The Buccaneers only score once in four trips inside the Pittsburgh 20-yard line, scoring only three field goals.
In 2022, the Buccaneers have yet to establish their offensive identity. Through six weeks, Tampa Bay has averaged a league-worst 67.5 rushing yards per game and a pitiful 20.2 points scored. While part of their difficulties can be attributed to injury, the Bucs have several reasons to be concerned moving forward.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers live updates, NFL Week 7 2022 at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
The Panthers fought hard four a half, but they were simply overmatched by the defending Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams in their 24-10 Week 6 loss. Former XFL standout P.J. Walker got the start for Carolina with Sam Darnold on injured reserve and Baker Mayfield battling an ankle injury. Walker was forced to leave the game against the Rams with a neck injury, but is expected to be available against the Buccaneers in Week 7.
The Panthers are clearly headed towards a rebuilding project, and that became even clearer when they traded McCaffrey. D’Onta Foreman and Chuba Hubbard are expected to split carries going forward.