By A to Z Sports,Evan Winter

Copyright yardbarker

Bucs still have to work out some special teams issues and figure out how to produce takeaways

Chase McLaughlin has been the best and most reliable kicker in Bucs history over the last two seasons. McLaughlin’s been anything but that in 2025, however, and it’s put the team in some bad spots. He missed a PAT and a field goal in Week 1 and then missed a field goal in Week 2. All were very makable kicks and all were in a dome – so there is no excuse for the errors.The Bucs’ punt return unit really struggled, too. A blocked punt and a big return instantly led to 10 points for the Texans that included Chubb’s go-ahead touchdown. Who knows how the game plays out if the Bucs just do their jobs.

It’s crucial because the Bucs are going to be in a lot close games, regardless of opponent, as they navigate through their injuries. These kinds of mistakes can easily be the difference in a win or a loss and we almost saw that last night. If Baker Mayfield doesn’t convert that 4th and 10 then it’s very likely lights out for the Buccaneers and we’re talking about the special teams gaffes as opposed to the comeback win. And then of course, the Bucs need to find ways to create takeaways. They got some sacks against the Texans, but now they need to take the ball away, as they have a giant goose egg through two games. That has to happen in order to take the next step.If you’re serious like the Bucs are about winning the Super Bowl, then these things matter. And while they are showing they have the heart and resiliency to win a championship, there are just a couple of other things that need to be buttoned up before they can really make a charge at a third Lombardi.