David Walker could be key to Buccaneers' plan against Aaron Rodgers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their first win of the season with a 24-16 triumph over the Dallas Cowboys. However, their defense must now confront another challenge as Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to face them at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers' pass rush has been inconsistent, registering only six sacks in their first five games.

In light of this, analyzing the Buccaneers' pass rush and the Steelers' offensive line reveals potential opportunities for the Buccaneers, particularly for rookie edge rusher David Walker.

According to Pro Football Focus, Pittsburgh's offensive line has had inconsistent pass protection throughout their five-game span. Right tackle Troy Fautanu has allowed a team-high 13 pressures (including one sack, five quarterback hits, and seven hurries). Right guard Mason McCormick has surrendered 10 pressures and three sacks, while left tackle Max Iheanacho has allowed eight pressures and two sacks.

Brock Hoffman has faced seven pressures. In contrast, center Zach Frazier has only faced six pressures and no sacks. These numbers indicate that Pittsburgh's protection difficulties are more concentrated at certain positions, offering Tampa Bay potential matchups to exploit rather than solely depending on additional blitzes.

David Walker has been the Buccaneers' most productive pass rusher to date. He has generated nine quarterback pressures on 38 pass-rush snaps, translating into a 23.7% pressure rate, and has led the team with two sacks. His play is even more impressive when compared to the Buccaneers' other edge defenders. Yaya Diaby has produced seven pressures on 95 pass-rush snaps, a 7.4% pressure rate, while Al-Quadin Muhammad has recorded four pressures on 82 opportunities.

Rookie Rueben Bain Jr. has managed two pressures on 55 pass-rush snaps. Although Walker's efficiency is based on a small sample size, his performance indicates he might earn more chances against Pittsburgh. However, his pressure rate is dependent on a limited number of opportunities, which raises questions about whether he can replicate this level of success with increased playing time.

Facing Aaron Rodgers, Tampa Bay will need to secure individual defensive line victories to generate sacks if the opposing quarterback can quickly throw the ball. Rodgers has been exceptional, throwing for 1,234 yards, 10 touchdowns, and four interceptions in his first five games. His ability to recognize defensive pressure and quickly release the football makes him a formidable opponent, even when the protection breaks down.

The Buccaneers' defense struggled to create turnovers against Dallas, allowing 316 passing yards. Therefore, the team cannot solely depend on takeaways to counteract the Steelers' offensive production. Walker's efficiency gives the Buccaneers a promising option, and Pittsburgh's offensive line numbers indicate opportunities for disrupting Rodgers.

Whether the Buccaneers can capitalize on these advantages to induce hurried throws, stall drives, and sacks could significantly impact their quest for a second consecutive victory.