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Tampa Bay Buccaneers Edge Out Cincinnati Bengals in Season Opener

In a closely contested season opener, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers emerged victorious over the Cincinnati Bengals with a final score of 17-14. This win puts the Buccaneers at a 1-0 start for the season, while the Bengals face an early setback with a 0-1 record.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Kyle Trask (2) carries the ball in the first half during an NFL preseason football game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Emilee Chinn)

The game, held at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, saw an attendance of 63,323 fans who witnessed a battle that was as much about defense as it was about strategic offense. The Buccaneers' performance showcased their ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain control throughout crucial moments.


Jake Camarda's punting played a significant role in field positioning, contributing significantly with 171 yards across four attempts. His longest punt flew for 51 yards, although none landed within the 20-yard line. On defense, J.J. Russell led with six tackles and one assist but it was Keenan Isaac's interception that highlighted the Buccaneers' defensive efforts by halting potential scoring drives from the Bengals.


Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Travis Bell (53) sacks Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback John Wolford (11) for a 6-yard loss in the second half of an NFL preseason football game Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Offensively, Kyle Trask and John Wolford shared quarterback duties for Tampa Bay. Trask threw for 144 yards with a completion rate of 60 percent but also threw an interception. Wolford added another dimension to their passing game by throwing for 131 yards at a higher completion rate of approximately 67 percent without succumbing to any interceptions.


The rushing attack was spearheaded by Sean Tucker who dashed through Cincinnati's defense for an impressive total of 68 yards on ten carries. Bucky Irving also made his presence felt by scoring one of Tampa Bay’s two touchdowns on the ground while amassing 28 rushing yards himself.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Rakim Jarrett (18) signals for a first down after making a catch against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half of an NFL preseason football game Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Receiving contributions were spread across multiple players including Ryan Miller who led with three receptions totaling to an impactful gain of forty-two yards which helped sustain drives and position Tampa Bay favorably on several occasions throughout the game.


As they prepare for their next challenge, fans can look forward to seeing if Tampa Bay can continue their winning momentum when they face off against Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville on August 17th at7:30 PM EDT. This upcoming match promises more action and will be available for viewing so fans won't miss any part of what is shaping up to be an exciting season ahead.

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