Fans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are going to find themselves in an odd situation come next weekend. Should they root for their team to win the season finale against New Orleans or root for them to lose in order to pick up the No. 1 overall pick?
And while the players and coaches are going to work their hardest to pull off the team’s third win of the season, Tampa Bay’s front office is probably hoping Lovie Smith and Co. come up short.
Why?
The answer is two words and represents the potential future of the Buccaneers franchise.
Marcus Mariota.
The Oregon quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner is expected to be the top pick in the draft next year. He also fills a position of utmost need for a Buccaneers squad that has struggled at quarterback over the seasons.
Mike Glennon and Josh McCown have combined for 20 touchdowns compared to 18 interceptions for a Buccaneers offense that currently ranks 28th in the NFL in scoring. This despite the fact that Tampa Bay boasts two legitimate receiving options in Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson.
The good news here is that Tampa Bay can secure the top pick with a loss against Drew Brees and Co.
Photo: USA Today