Bucs’ Defensive Stars Discuss Stopping Falcons
Seven games into this season, one would not have expected the Bucs defense to have struggled to the extent they have. Coming into the year, the unit appeared strong on paper – and for good reason.
Looking at the player personnel, there is plenty of established star power in defensive tackle Vita Vea, inside linebacker Lavonte David, and free safety Antoine Winfield Jr. Add in emerging young talent like defensive tackle Calijah Kancey, outside linebacker Yaya Diaby, and cornerback Zyon McCollum, all of the pieces are there to have a top-tier defense.
Instead, the unit has underwhelmed, especially in the past three weeks after giving up 550 total yards to the Falcons and 508 total yards to the Ravens.
Plenty is on the line as they prepare for a rematch against the 4-3 Falcons on Sunday afternoon. It will be challenging for the offense to keep up its scoring output with wide receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans injured, and the defense now has more pressure to perform.
Yaya Diaby and Zyon McCollum Know The Bucs Need To Win On Sunday
Bucs Olb Yaya Diaby – Photo By: Usa Today
Bucs OLB Yaya Diaby – Photo by: USA Today
There is increased pressure on the Bucs as they continue to march on through their upcoming stretch of games.
The Ravens were just one tough foe, with the playoff-contending Falcons, Chiefs, and 49ers looming ahead. Outside linebacker Yaya Diaby understands the importance of the team coming out and playing hard after what they have been through.
A couple of weeks ago, it was playing for the city of Tampa Bay after it was hit hard by Hurricane Milton. Now, it’s about playing for the offensive stars they lost to injury.
“We need this game, we need this game bad,” Diaby said. “[It’s] just a perfect opportunity to go out there and play for each other, play for Chris [Godwin] and Mike [Evans] and get a win.”
Cornerback Zyon McCollum agreed and knows they cannot get swept by their biggest NFC South rival.
“I’ve been thinking about the Falcons since we played the Falcons,” McCollum said. “I stay in the present moment, but a divisional opponent coming into our house this time. It was a tough game last time, so we have an opportunity to capitalize and go out and try to take the top of this division.
