2023 NFL Power Rankings: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Baker Mayfield has been at his best when he has served in more of a complementary role and can rely on the defense, which propelled the Bucs to a 3-1 start. But they've struggled to put points on the board, scoring 16.3 offensive points per game (ranked 26th in the league), and now they've dropped three straight games. Mayfield's eight tipped passes at the line of scrimmage are also tied for sixth most in the NFL. Where Mayfield has shined through is in keeping plays alive and on third down. Mayfield's 41.3% third-down conversion rate on passes is the sixth best in the league. -- Jenna Laine

After a 3-1 start, Tampa has lost three straight, and now -- in the thick of a tough portion of the schedule -- we'll see if this team is built to last. The Buccaneers are on the road for five of their next seven games. Their 2-1 record away from home (including Thursday's competitive loss to the Bills) suggests they can hang with most teams. Can the offense produce more scoring chances? In three games since the early bye, they have three TDs, five field goals, five drives that ended with turnovers (two on downs) and 15 punts. If Baker Mayfield can play a little more consistently and the offensive line can avoid crippling penalties, maybe the Bucs can convert a few more of those possessions into points. They're going to need to.

They've lost three straight games to dampen what was a solid start to their season. But in their division, they are far from done.

Much as they're struggling, only one (San Francisco) of their next seven opponents (three in the AFC South) currently has a winning record. Don't expect Tampa Bay to disappear from the NFC South or wild-card races.

Something scary (for them): The run game

Tampa Bay is last in the NFL in rushing success rate (26.5). That's on pace to be the worst in the league since the Baltimore Ravens in 2013 (24.6). Rachaad White, the Bucs' leading rusher, is averaging 3.3 yards per carry and doesn't have a run longer than 15 yards. The Bucs' second-leading rusher? Baker Mayfield.

The Bucs offense is not what you'd call good, but the real culprit feels like a defense that's allowing an average of 400 yards per game during this losing streak. This team isn't built to win shootouts. So while it might not be fair, the defense is going to need to do more if Tampa is going to stay in the NFC South race.

The Buccaneers will be "listeners" at the trade deadline, head coach Todd Bowles said. Tampa Bay is like many teams, not bad enough to tear it all down but also not good enough to feel like contenders. So many teams being near the middle in the NFL will probably limit how many trades happen Tuesday.

Baker Mayfield is doing his damnedest to will this team into contention.

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