New Orleans Saints: Get to know the Buccaneers’ three strongest areas
By Jason Reed
2. Pass-catchers
A big reason why Winston has been fairly decent over the last three weeks is not only because of the new offensive philosophy but because he has a slew of weapons in the passing game to target. This is a big reason why the Bucs scored 55 against the Saints and what will be the team’s lifeline in this game.
The Buccaneers have really good pass-catchers on the team, including the tight ends alongside the receiving corps, that can get open and make plays happen for Winston. Winston can make the throws when his receivers are getting yards of separation and that is what they are capable of.
Leading the way is Mike Evans, who has probably been the most underrated wide receiver of the last few seasons. Since 2016, Evans ranks second in receiving yards, fourth in touchdowns and fifth in yards per game.
Alongside him is a deep, speedy threat in Chris Godwin, who absolutely torched the Rams last week for 172 yards on 12 receptions with two touchdowns. Godwin is third in the league with 386 receiving yards.
Where is Mike Evans? Seventh, with 368 receiving yards. The only duo in the NFL with more receiving yards is Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods in LA.
Winston also has two above-average tight ends to go to in O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate. The Saints’ secondary is going to have its hands full with this one.