Three keys to victory for Tampa Bay in Week 12

Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has been one of the NFL’s best interior defenders for many years and is currently Indianapolis’ most productive pass rusher, entering Week 12 with 29 pressures including six sacks. Much of the Colts’ pass rush success hinges on Buckner’s ability to disrupt the interior offensive line and break the pocket. Stopping him has to be pass protection priority number one for Tampa Bay.

The Bucs have few worries along the edge, as tackles Tristan Wirfs and Luke Goedeke are not only the Bucs’ best pass protectors, they are one of the best tackle duos in the league this season. The concern comes in the interior of the line, which has been the offense’s Achilles’ heel all season.

Rookie Cody Mauch has struggled to adapt to the NFL coming from D-1AA North Dakota State, center Robert Hainsey has done little to prove that no upgrade is needed and the left guard spot has been a carousel of mediocrity. Buckner is no doubt licking his chops awaiting a vulnerable interior that can ill afford to lose track of Buckner at any point on Sunday.