The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are walking into Monday Night Football with their eyes wide open — because even though the Detroit Lions are limping in with a battered secondary, the Bucs know better than to take Dan Campbell’s crew lightly.
Detroit’s defense may be missing a few familiar faces, but if there’s one thing the league has learned, it’s that the Lions play with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of grit. No matter who’s in the lineup, this team comes swinging. That’s exactly why the Bucs are preparing like they’re facing the full-strength version of Detroit’s defense — because overlooking a Campbell-coached unit is how teams get embarrassed.
Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield acknowledged this week that Detroit’s backups bring just as much energy and aggression as the starters. The Lions’ “next man up” mentality has kept them competitive even through a wave of injuries, and it’s a big reason why Tampa Bay’s coaching staff is preaching focus over comfort.
Sure, the Lions’ secondary has been tested, but don’t mistake injuries for weakness. With young talents like Brian Branch and veterans who refuse to back down, Detroit still has plenty of bite. And if the Bucs come into Ford Field expecting an easy night — they’re in for a rude awakening.
Trap Game? Not This Time — Bucs Refuse to Overlook Detroit’s Beat-Up Secondary
