In their recent matchup against the Lions, Bucs offensive coordinator Liam Coen focused on containing Aidan Hutchinson, but despite the game plan, Hutchinson dominated early with 4½ sacks. Coen adjusted late, giving right tackle Justin Skule extra help, but the damage was done. Heading into a game against the Broncos and pass-rusher Zach Allen, Coen knows quicker adjustments and a stronger run game are critical. Establishing a balanced offensive approach will help protect Baker Mayfield and prevent similar breakdowns in future matchups.
Looking Ahead: A New Challenge Against the Broncos
The road ahead doesn’t get any easier for Coen and the Buccaneers, as the team faces the Denver Broncos and their own pass-rushing threat, defensive end Zach Allen. Allen has already made an impact this season, recording a sack, five quarterback hits, and 13 pressures in just two games. With Goedeke still sidelined, the Bucs’ offensive line will need to be better prepared to protect Mayfield from similar threats.
Coen has acknowledged the importance of quicker adjustments moving forward, emphasizing the need for better protection schemes from the start of the game. His experience from the Lions game underscores the need for faster reaction times to prevent the kind of breakdowns seen against Hutchinson.
Establishing the Run: A Key to Offensive Balance
Another area of focus for Coen moving forward will be establishing a more effective running game. In the matchup against the Lions, Mayfield was often forced to use his legs to gain yardage, but a more consistent rushing attack from running backs Rachaad White and rookie Bucky Irving will be crucial for the team’s success. Coen believes that an effective ground game will help alleviate some of the pressure on Mayfield and open up more opportunities in the passing game.
By utilizing the talent in the backfield, Coen hopes to create a more balanced offense that can handle the aggressive defensive fronts the Bucs will face, including the Broncos’ formidable defensive line.
Key Takeaways from the Lions Game
The game against Detroit provided valuable lessons for Coen and the Bucs. One of the primary takeaways is the necessity of making faster in-game adjustments when facing elite pass rushers. Hutchinson’s ability to disrupt the offense early in the game forced Coen to rethink his approach, and similar challenges await in future matchups.
Additionally, the need for versatility on offense is clear. Coen must work to ensure that the team can rely not only on Mayfield’s passing but also on a strong running game to keep defenses honest. Establishing that balance will be key in future games, particularly when facing defenses that excel at rushing the quarterback.
Conclusion
Liam Coen’s first major challenge as the Bucs’ offensive coordinator against a top-tier pass rusher like Aidan Hutchinson exposed areas for improvement in both game planning and in-game adjustments. Moving forward, Coen will need to ensure quicker reactions to defensive threats and find ways to establish a stronger running game. As the team prepares to face the Broncos and their defensive star Zach Allen, Coen’s ability to adapt and develop a balanced offensive strategy will be crucial to Tampa Bay’s success.
FAQs
Q: How did Aidan Hutchinson affect the Bucs’ offensive game plan?
A: Hutchinson’s dominance early in the game forced the Bucs to make adjustments to better protect Baker Mayfield, but the delayed response allowed the Lions to disrupt the offense significantly.
Q: What are the key lessons for Coen from the Lions game?
A: Coen learned the importance of quicker adjustments, better protection schemes, and establishing a stronger run game to balance the offense and counter aggressive defenses.
Q: What adjustments can the Bucs make against the Broncos?
A: Coen is focused on quicker decision-making in protection, utilizing the running game more effectively, and finding ways to minimize the impact of pass rushers like Zach Allen.
