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Josh Grizzard Hits A New Level

October 5th, 2025

So arguably the biggest Bucs question entering the 2025 season surrounded rookie playcaller Josh Grizzard, the 35-year-old promoted to fill the big shoes of Liam “El Serpiente” Coen.

Last year, the Bucs averaged 29.5 points per game.

While Grizzard has more to prove after five games, Joe believes “Grizz” took a massive step forward today, outsmarting one of the game’s best defensive minds and showing creativity, calm, and trust in his battered offensive line. And Grizzard wove more weapons into his gameplan.

Obviously, Grizzard saw opportunity in the Seattle defense for tight end Cade Otton. The Bucs went early to Otton (for a change) and he finished with 4 catches for 81 yards. He had caught only 6 balls for 34 yards entering the game.

The Bucs offense was very unpredictable. Kameron Johnson even lined up in the backfield with Rachaad White, and Grizzard found ways to turn playbook-challenged rookie Tez Johnson into a weapon. Tez Johnson got his first significant action on offense, catching all four targets sent his way for 59 yards.

The playbook opened more. Joe even saw core elements of the Mike McDaniel offense show up. (Yeah, Joe watches a lot of Dolphins football and McDaniel mentored Grizzard.)

Through five games, the Bucs are averaging 27 points.

That total wasn’t nearly enough today, as the Bucs’ defense was godawful. But if Grizzard can keep that pace going, the Bucs will be winning a lot more games.

Joe loves how Grizzard ran right behind his backup offensive linemen to set up the game-winning field goal with a big gain. And the offense bounced back with a big day on third down (7-of-11).

Baker Mayfield looks more comfortable and confident than ever, and Joe has to credit some of that to his offensive coordinator.

Grizzard sure looks like a smart choice.