The Good – Lavonte David

106 solo tackles, 38 assists, 6 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and 5 interceptions. Lavonte David is doing things in his second year that most linebackers can only dream of. Yes, David has the stats but what I am most impressed with is the intangibles, the spark, that he brings to an often flat Buccaneers defense. This guy can blitz AND (I say “and” in capital letters because not many backers have both skills **COUGH COUGH Kuechly**) drop into coverage, blanketing some of the best over-the-middle receivers the NFL has to offer. He is always moving towards the ball and his incredible closing speed helps him get their and make plays. To say he was snubbed his first Pro Bowl selection this year would be an understatement. David is a brightly shining light in an otherwise flickering Bucs defense. Which brings me to “The Bad”.

“The Good” honorable mentions: Vincent Jackson, Jonathan Banks, Tiquan Underwood, The O-Line, and Gerald McCoy. Read the rest of this entry →