Wild Card: Buccaneers vs. Eagles Positional Grades

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers beat the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday afternoon. Here are Tampa Bay’s positional grades from the Wild Card game:

Quarterback: A

Tom Brady showcased his playoff dominance yet again. The 44-year-old field general threw for 271 yards. The seven-time champion was methodical when targeting his receivers, as three different receivers hauled in at least five receptions. Although Brady was sacked four times, the Eagles stingy pass rush did not prompt Brady to turn the football over.

Running Back: B-

Tampa’s running backs averaged just over 3.2 yards per carry on Sunday. Steady pressure from the Eagles defense caused most gaps to be clogged, often funneling run plays to the outside and into the hands of Philadelphia’s defensive ends. However, running back Giovanni Bernard proved to be a threat as a receiver from out of the backfield. The North Carolina product hauled in five passes for 39 yards.

Wide Receivers/ Tight End: A

After the release of Antonio Brown, Cyril Grayson emerged as a viable replacement for the troubled wideout. However, the Buccaneer receiving core became even more limited after Grayson was forced to miss Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury. Star Mike Evans shined as expected, snatching nine passes for 117 yards and a touchdown. The legend surrounding the “dynamic duo” of Brady and Rob Gronkowski only grew as the tight end had five catches, including a touchdown.

Offensive Line: C

All-pro offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs suffered an ankle injury, causing him to struggle early and eventually exit. Despite giving up four sacks, Brady was able to release the ball at the second-fastest rate than he has all season. The Buccaneers running backs had a limited impact due to the Eagles often rushing four to five defenders.

Defensive Line/ Linebackers: B-

Despite being listed as questionable, formidable pass-rusher Jason Pierre Paul registered the second most snaps on Tampa’s defensive line. Despite not registering a stat, Pierre-Paul was a key factor in Jalen Hurts’ decision making due to the Eagles frequently running the read option. Devin White thrived in blitzing opportunities, shooting through the open gap to knock Jalen Hurts down twice. Linebacker Shaquil Barrett was consistent in zone coverage, hauling in a 3rd quarter interception. While linebackers White and Lavonte David often blitzed, Barrett was relied on to protect the middle of the field

Defensive Backs: B+

Safety Mike Edwards was all over the field, racking up nine tackles and snagging an interception. Fellow safety Jordan Whitehead also thrived as a run stopper, with six tackles. Whitehead was often lined up in the box and used almost as an extra linebacker.

(Featured image by Mark LoMoglio/AP Photo)