Trust And Distribution
August 24th, 2024
First, a round of applause for the legendary JoeBucsFan.com photographer, who produced the photos above and below.
They are looks at rookie Jalen McMillan’s stunning body-control catch on the Bucs’ opening drive last night against Miami. Not only was the reception great, McMillan landed with his arm inbounds for a special completion.
McMillan set out with public a proclamation to earn Baker Mayfield’s trust this season. And he has. Nicely done. It reminds Joe of how then-rookie Cade Otton was on a mission to earn Tom Brady’s trust in 2022. Otton hauled in 42 balls that season and Brady targeted him 7 times in the Bucs’ lone playoff game.
Last night, Mayfield lauded McMillan’s catch and his “natural tendencies” that will make the Bucs a better offense. “You don’t have to make a perfect throw when a guy is able to high-point it like that,” Mayfield said.
Joe likes McMillan but needs to see more. Joe also has seen backup tight end Payne Durham make spectacular catches in the regular season. (Will he be used more?) Mayfield’s trust in McMillan, along with that of new playcaller Liam Coen, will be on display the in the season opener in 15 short days.
It will be interesting to see where Mayfield trends his targets after Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. The Bucs have a lot of options, including out of the backfield. And they might even have a running game!
Jalen McMillan sticks the landing with his hand.
August 24th, 2024 at 1:32 pm
A worthless photo of a worthless catch in a worthless preseason game….,and worthless sarcasm from TBBF.
August 24th, 2024 at 1:53 pm
I second great photography! I don’t think that I ever saw a catch like that. Cool! I LOVE preseason.
August 24th, 2024 at 1:57 pm
Now that’s a hand job with a happy landing
August 24th, 2024 at 2:15 pm
When ain’t a hand job a happy ending
August 24th, 2024 at 2:46 pm
“Joe likes McMillan but needs to see more.”
Of course.
Same with Trask.
Life is full of unknowns (some commenters here have trouble understanding that)
You know when it happens.
And in the mean time, if you comment here, you get labeled as a ‘lover’ or a ‘hater’ of (x) player. No third option like ‘hey guys, let’s wait & see’, LOL
Back to the subject, McMillan looks like 3a to Palmer’s 3b
-or-
McMillan looks like 3rd string to Palmer’s 4th string
August 24th, 2024 at 4:33 pm
Well said MTN!
Nice article, too!
August 24th, 2024 at 5:05 pm
I expect a lot of 4-wides.
August 24th, 2024 at 5:18 pm
Gotta say this draft class is one of the deepest we have seen in a long time. The first 4 picks by JL will see starting positions and or substantial snaps. I know it’s all how the draft lands for you but I hope this is an indication of how well we will draft in the future. That front office is a well oiled machine and JMac is a quality #3 imo. Standing O for the front Office
August 24th, 2024 at 5:52 pm
McMillan is another Bucs player that will carry “attitude” into the season. Guys looking to prove something. I love that’s our team identity and so many of our guys have chips on their shoulders.
August 24th, 2024 at 6:25 pm
The pass by Trask for the Bucs’ second touchdown was either lucky or brilliant; maybe both.
Both defenders were trailing the receiver. And, the ball lead the receiver perfectly in step. I doubted that the receiver would be able to find the ball and make the play. But, it hit him in his hands, and there was no way anyone else could get to it.
August 24th, 2024 at 6:43 pm
I see Baker throwing for a lot of yards this season. Otton will make some noise. As well as some pleasant surprises from the young guys. Go!!!!!!
August 24th, 2024 at 7:31 pm
Why doesn’t anyone talk about Tanner Knue? He made a number of catches and a couple of touchdowns here in preseason. Didn’t he return a punt last night, too?
August 24th, 2024 at 9:02 pm
I c mcmillon doesn’t seem to drop the ball like a few other bucs receivers just sayin
August 24th, 2024 at 9:31 pm
Joe tries not to focus on practice squad dudes. There are plenty of lesser sites that do that.
August 25th, 2024 at 11:04 am
I don’t know if it’s sad or a testament to how good the Bucs receiving squad is. If Tanner Knue winds up on the practice squad. Guy made spectacular catches ran great routes and passes the eye test for everything like speed,agility,etc. Plays with that football attitude as well doesn’t go out there soft hearted and half-assed. (I guess same can be argued for Kam Johnson) To me the obvious is McMillan is going to be a star he will only be a number three for as long as Evans and possibly Godwin is on this team. I think the most practical way will be Evan’s number one, McMillan number 2, Godwin full time slot. Then we have (Shepherd, Palmer, Tompkins, Johnson, Knue to spell in and out)Going to be or already is one of the best wide receiver stables in the NFL
August 25th, 2024 at 1:52 pm
I believe this offense will turn some national talking heads this season. I’m looking forward to the Washington game. 😎
August 25th, 2024 at 2:06 pm
Fantastic Picture of Excellent Catch. Our Team is Well Coached and Ready. Here’s To The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Everyone Who Loves Them!
August 25th, 2024 at 2:27 pm
Nickelodeon just released a Rookie Spotlight featuring J-Mac, Culp, and Barton. It is a great watch. You can find the full episode with a Google search.