The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 0-8, but you would never know based on the first half against Miami. The Buccaneers played well in all three phases and lead the Dolphins, 15-7, at halftime.
Dolphins vs. Buccaneers 2013 halftime score: Bucs jump out to 15-7 lead
Could Tampa Bay be on the way to its first win of the season? The Bucs are off to a good start and lead at halftime.
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Despite coming in winless and facing a 4-4 Miami team in the thick of a playoff race, it appeared the Bucs could do no wrong early in the first half. Tampa Bay drove the opening possession right down the field to take an early 7-0 lead. Even losing starting running back Mike James to an ankle injury couldn't derail the Bucs. It wasn't just the offense either. The Bucs got big plays from special teams and the defense during an impressive first half.
Miami gained negative yardage on two of its first three drives, including minus-2 yards on its third drive which resulted in a safety. The Buccaneers had a huge advantage on the ground, outrushing Miami, 81-0, in the first half. The Dolphins showed signs of life on the final drive of the half, driving down the field for a touchdown. Ryan Tannehill completed 12 straight passes to finish the half.
This isn’t the first time the Bucs have jumped out to a lead this season. Tampa Bay was up 21-0 early and 21-7 at halftime last week against Seattle before ultimately losing, 27-24, in overtime.
Miami will receive the second-half kickoff.
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