John Romano: Now that's a tidy Bucs season-opening performance against Commanders

TAMPA BAY, Fla. — The score was impressive. The journey was better.

The Buccaneers began the 2024 season with an efficient, mostly mistake-free 37-20 victory against the Washington Commanders at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday. The new-look offense under Liam Coen had open receivers all afternoon, and the running game came alive in the fourth quarter to seal the deal.

The defense had some issues containing Washington rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels on scrambles but otherwise avoided giving up big plays.

Rookies Jalen McMillan and Bucky Irving had big afternoons for Tampa Bay in their NFL debuts. McMillan scored on a 32-yard pass and Irving led the Bucs in rushing with 62 yards on nine carries.

Play of the day

The score had gotten uncomfortably close — a Daniels touchdown cut Tampa Bay’s lead to 23-14 — late in the third quarter. The Bucs were facing second-and-5 from their own 33 when Baker Mayfield threw a screen pass to Rachaad White, who took off down the left sideline for a 32-yard gain. Tampa Bay rookie center Graham Barton was called for being downfield before the pass, but officials picked up the flag after a video review. Three plays later, the Bucs scored a touchdown and the game virtually was finished.

Game ball

Anyone want to complain about Mayfield getting a three-year, $100 million deal in the offseason? The Bucs QB was brilliant on Sunday, completing 24-of-30 for 242 yards and four touchdowns with a 146.4 passer rating. He also scrambled for 21 yards and the Bucs played turnover-free ball.

Keep an eye on

Do not be surprised if we see roster moves this week. The Bucs began the Washington game a little banged-up on the defensive line, and they left with even bigger problems in the secondary.

Starting cornerback Zyon McCollum departed in the first half with a possible concussion. Replacement Josh Hayes went down with an ankle injury and then Bryce Hall was carted off the field in the third quarter with a right leg injury. Tampa Bay played most of the second half with Jamel Dean as the only true corner. Safety Christian Izien, who played some nickel corner in 2023, filled in at the other spot.

NFC South update

So here’s what we know: The Bucs are not giving up the division crown easily, the Saints might be better than anyone thought, the Falcons fell way short of the hype and Dave Canales had better be renting in Carolina. The biggest news was Atlanta falling 18-10 at home against Pittsburgh. Kirk Cousins had an atrocious debut, throwing for only 155 yards and two interceptions after signing a 4-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons.

Next up

Well, well, well. Here’s a chance for a little unfinished business. Eight months ago, the Bucs were 15 minutes and one point away from the NFC Championship Game. They were tied 17-17 against the Lions going into the fourth quarter of a division playoff game. Detroit ended up winning 31-23 before falling to San Francisco the following week. The Bucs return to Detroit next week for a 1 p.m. ET game.

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