The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have struggled for consistency over six games, and their spot in the latest NFL power rankings reflects a team that has repeatedly failed to capitalize on opportunities.
In CBS Sports' Week 7 NFL power rankings, Pete Prisco ranked Tampa Bay No. 29 for the second straight week. The Buccaneers enter Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers at 1-5 after a 26-19 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game in which they carried a 16-3 lead into the fourth quarter before letting it slip away.
Prisco also raised questions about head coach Todd Bowles' job security, but Tampa Bay's struggles extend beyond its defense. The offense has been inconsistent, particularly with undrafted rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels filling in for the injured Baker Mayfield over the past three games.
Daniels deserves credit for what he's accomplished with limited NFL experience. He's been asked to manage an offense while learning to recognize defensive pressure, adjust to blitzes, and make decisions against experienced NFL defenses. There have been encouraging moments, but Tampa Bay has also been limited in what it can consistently execute offensively.
That puts additional pressure on Buccaneers offensive coordinator Zac Robinson. The Buccaneers have relied on a conservative approach that has occasionally produced results but hasn't generated enough consistent offense to support the defense. Tampa Bay also lacks a dependable downfield receiving threat, though rookie Ted Hurst has occasionally produced explosive plays on occasion.
Defensively, the Buccaneers have shown more promise than their record suggests. Young players such as Josiah Trotter, Rueben Bain Jr. and David Walker have helped develop the front seven, while the secondary has been one of the team's more encouraging position groups. Alex Anzalone has been inconsistent, but Tampa Bay's defense has remained competitive despite injuries to key contributors, including Antoine Winfield Jr.
Against Pittsburgh, the defense played well for much of the afternoon before struggling in the fourth quarter and overtime. Those late-game breakdowns deserve criticism, but the offense also has to do its part by sustaining drives and putting points on the board. Bowles ultimately carries responsibility for the team's record, although Robinson's offensive approach deserves its own scrutiny.
The Buccaneers could receive a significant boost heading into Sunday's divisional matchup against Carolina. Mayfield fully participated in practice Wednesday and Thursday as he continues recovering from a dislocated right thumb. His return hasn't been officially confirmed, but getting their veteran quarterback back would give Tampa Bay an experienced leader who can recognize pressure, make adjustments, and open up the offense.
The Buccaneers also find themselves at the bottom of the NFC South in Prisco's rankings. Carolina sits at No. 14, followed by Atlanta at No. 23 and New Orleans at No. 26. Tampa Bay is the only team in the division ranked outside the top 26.
The No. 29 ranking is difficult to argue against given the Buccaneers' record and inability to finish games. However, the development of their young defenders and the possibility of Mayfield returning suggest the team can improve. The challenge now is finding enough offensive consistency to give that defense a chance to close out games.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers remain near bottom of CBS Sports power rankings