Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 5 X-factors for making the leap in 2017

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Dec 4, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) points out a San Diego Chargers defender before the snap as offensive guard Ali Marpet (74) and center Joe Hawley (68) look on during the second quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Improved offensive line play

Last year, the offensive line for Tampa Bay was, to say the least, not very good. The Buccaneers allowed 35 sacks in 2016, tying them with Green Bay and the New York Jets. Improved play should not be an issue as the only departure from the line is Gosder Cherilus, who retired.

Tampa Bay has a veteran cast at the offensive line position including the likes of J.R. Sweezy, tackle Kevin Pamphile, center Joe Hawley, right guard Ali Marpet and tackles Donovan Smith and Demar Dotson. More importantly, this cast of guys up front all appear to be healthy and ready to rock heading into 2017.

The best thing about this group is that they are young and deep. Although the youth at the position may have hurt them last year, it was necessary to suffer through growing pains so that the players could learn from them.

Now, a talented and youthful group needs to show that they are back and better than ever. Quite simply, the offensive line needs to perform well if the Buccaneers want to make the leap. For every facet of the offense, the success of this unit will be critical.

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