The Tampa Bay Buccaneers played a clean first half against the Detroit Lions, leading 13-6 at halftime. The defense allowed a field goal on the first series of the second half, shrinking their lead to 13-9.
Overall, though, the defense did a good job of keeping the Lions out of the end zone for two and a half quarters, which is surprising given the versatility of Detroit’s offense. Tampa Bay scored the game’s only touchdown at this point, so they’re playing from the front.
READ MORE: Baker Mayfield scores 41-yard touchdown to Chris Godwin against Lions
As long as the defense slows the Lions down and keeps them out of the end zone, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers offense have a chance to extend and protect their lead. That could be more difficult for the defense in the second half, however, as star defensive lineman Vita Vea was taken out of the game early in the second half with a knee injury.
Here is the game where #Bucs NT Vita Vea is injured. It looks like Yaya Diaby, who was passing on the lap, fell on his knee. Doesn’t look good pic.twitter.com/yT3X1JArtN
— JC Allen (@JCAllenNFL) 15 September 2024
Vita Vea is out for the rest of today’s game (knee). pic.twitter.com/veE8FMFpEw
— Buccaneers Communications (@BuccaneersComms) 15 September 2024
Vea’s lack of presence on the defensive line could open up a running game for the Lions that could be a game-changer. If Detroit starts to have success on the ground while Vea is out for the rest of the game, the Buccaneers could be in trouble in the second half.
READ MORE: Zyon McCollum catches Jared Goff for his first NFL interception
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