Buccaneers’ Passing Weakness Could Be Exposed Against Bears in Chicago

Buccaneers build momentum

Tampa Bay started the 2026 season poorly, but has since recorded back-to-back wins for the first time in more than a year. Victories over Carolina and Atlanta put the Buccaneers at 2-0 against NFC South opponents and within half a game of the division lead.

Baker Mayfield returned after dislocating his thumb in Week 3. Since then, the offense has emphasized the run under Zac Robinson, while the team has limited turnovers and controlled possession. Todd Bowles’ defense has also produced pressure, strong coverage and turnovers.

Chicago presents a tougher test

The Buccaneers travel to Chicago on Sunday night to face a 6-2 Bears team. Tampa Bay’s recent run-first success may be difficult to repeat against Chicago, which has one of the NFL’s strongest run defenses.

Entering Week 9, Chicago ranks eighth in points allowed, seventh in total yards allowed and fourth in rushing yards allowed, giving up 86.8 per game. Dennis Allen’s defense also leads the league on third downs, allowing conversions 23.75% of the time.

Passing game could decide it

Tampa Bay’s passing attack has not been consistent this season, and the article argues the shift toward running was driven partly by that limitation. Against a defense that can contain the run, the Buccaneers may need a more balanced offense than they used against Carolina and Atlanta.

Mayfield’s thumb and the weather in the Atlanta game could explain some of the recent passing struggles, but this will be his third game back. The story says he needs to be healthy enough to make accurate throws across the field; otherwise, he should not play.

A chance on national television

A win in Chicago would strengthen Tampa Bay’s bid to finish atop the NFC South and show it can contend with leading teams. The article warns that continued problems passing could prevent the Buccaneers from reaching that goal. The matchup therefore offers a test of whether Tampa Bay can complement its effective ground game with a productive passing attack against a defense that ranks highly in several categories.