Starters in Pittsburgh
Following a joint practice with the Titans, the Buccaneers' staff opted to rest or limit the starters against Tennessee in the preseason opener. In the first preseason exhibition, quarterback Kyle Trask and running back Owen Wright saw significant snaps, while receivers Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan were on a pitch count and made an impact on the opening series. For the second game at Acrisure Stadium, Bowles confirmed that other than Mike Evans and Lavonte David, who will be sidelined out of precaution, the rest of the roster will be ready to suit up against the Steelers.
"Barring Mike Evans and Lavonte David, everybody else will be ready to play," noted Bowles.
Tampa Bay Receivers Showcase Variety
Against the Steelers' defense on Thursday, the Buccaneers' receivers put on a show. Future Hall of Famer Mike Evans capped off a two-minute drill with a circus catch in the back of the end zone after Baker Mayfield threaded the needle between two Pittsburgh defenders. In addition, Jalen McMillan had a stellar outing, gaining 15 yards down the left sideline and winning his battle in a tip drill against Jalen Ramsey. He took advantage of the Steelers' heavy usage of zone, along with rookie Emeka Egbuka. Egbuka showed his route running acumen and ability to win in contested catch situations. The trio excelled on the turf, fueling the offense during the joint practice.
"I think Emeka can play the same no matter who he plays," described Bowls. "He is that polished, and he needs to get better no matter who is out there. Obviously, they have some pro bowl corners over there so that was good work for him as well."
Vita Vea Bulldozes
Last season, Tampa Bay's defense was more effective against inside runs with Vita Vea manning the middle, allowing only 3.7 yards per carry, compared to 4.7 yards per carry when he was off the field. Vea also generated 47 pressures, the 7th-most among defensive tackles and his most in a single season in his career last season. Vea, the Bucs' menacing nose tackle, sets the tone up front and consistently commands double teams. He overwhelms at the point of attack with immense power and surprising pursuit quickness. During Thursday's joint practice, Vea imposed his will during one-on-one pass rush drills, knocking back offensive linemen with a lethal bull rush. Vea showcased his strength and made his mark on the Acrisure Stadium field. The double A-gap nightmare dominated on Thursday.
