TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 16: Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action against the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
After a stellar second-half showing Monday night, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have decided Ryan Fitzpatrick will be their quarterback.
On Monday night, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick didn’t at first display the “Fitzmagic” that captivated the NFL world against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Bucs stated that unless Fitzpatrick was “drastically bad,” he would remain the team’s quarterback. And during the first half, it looked as if the job would return to Jameis Winston once he returned from suspension. Fitzpatrick threw three interceptions, helping the Steelers to a 30-10 lead at halftime.
But Fitzpatrick’s two-touchdown fourth quarter nearly helped the Bucs to a second-half comeback victory, as the team fell just short, ultimately losing 30-27. In light of Fitzpatrick’s strong fourth-quarter showing, it seems he’s likely to remain the starter for now.
Bucs head coach Dirk Koetter implied he wants to be fair to Winston before he makes the decision official.
“Let’s see when the injury report comes back,” Koetter said. “I mean, I’d love to get a chance to talk to Jameis face to face before I tell the rest of the world.”
Fitzpatrick became the first quarterback in NFL history to record three consecutive 400-yard games after he finished with 411 yards last night. While it’s hard to argue with history, it’s even harder to argue with performance and impact. Fitzpatrick’s “Fitzmagic” has resulted in a more efficient Bucs offense. While Winston is still the best option for the team, in theory, Fitzpatrick has the team rolling. It’s best to always ride the hot hand.
If the Fitzmagic begins to decline, though, at least the Bucs have a reliable talent in Winston who hopefully has matured to the point he can lead the team effectively.