Tampa Bay capitalizes on an Aaron Jones fumble to extend their lead

If you were building a dream scenario for the Tampa bay Buccaneers in the NFC Championship game, it would be hard to top the sequence of events leading into the halftime break, and then out of halftime. It all culminated with Tampa Bay capitalizing on an Aaron Jones fumble to extend their lead in the third quarter to 28-10.

First there was the stunning defensive breakdown prior to the halftime break that led to Brady connecting with wide receiver Scotty Miller. As we broke down here – with an assist from legendary head coach and defensive mind Tony Dungy – the Packers approached the scenario with a completely warped mindset, and Tampa Bay was able to take advantage.

But still, the Packers were in good shape right? They would be receiving the second-half kickoff, and while they trailed 21-10 a touchdown drive would make this a one-score game again. With Rodgers and this offense, that seemed like a big possibility.

Then, the Buccaneers defense makes a huge play:

Green Bay tries to free Aaron Jones on a crossing route working from right-to-left, creating traffic for him with three receivers working from left-to-right. That has the impact of springing the running back free on his crossing route, but after the catch safety Jordan Whitehead flies downhill and puts his helmet on the football, popping the ball lose. Linebacker Devin White pounces for the recovery, and Tampa Bay is immediately in business.

They would capitalize instantly:

That gave Tampa Bay an 18-point lead. Could this game come down to Rodgers versus the Buccaneers defense, or does Rodgers have another trick or two up his sleeves?