The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have enjoyed a resurgence on the ground over the past two weeks, but their offensive line is about to face one of its toughest tests of the season. Chicago already had one of the NFL's most disruptive defensive fronts before making a blockbuster move for Jeffery Simmons. Now, with the former Tennessee Titans All-Pro in the middle of the defensive line, the Buccaneers face an entirely different challenge.

The Bears rank second in the NFL in sacks per pass attempt, pressuring 9.65% of opposing dropbacks. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, has struggled to keep opposing pass rushers away from Baker Mayfield, ranking 30th in sacks allowed per pass attempt at 11.06%. That is a concerning matchup, particularly against a defense that just added one of the league's most dangerous interior defenders. Simmons wasted little time making his presence felt in Chicago. In his Bears debut against Seattle, he recorded six tackles, a sack, two tackles for loss, and a pass defensed while playing 55 of 63 defensive snaps. Opposing offensive lines double-teamed him 13 times, showing how much attention they must devote to containing him. His ability to collapse the pocket from the interior could create opportunities for Chicago's edge rushers to win their individual matchups.

That puts Graham Barton directly in the spotlight. The Buccaneers' center will have a difficult assignment against Simmons, who can win with power, quickness, and an ability to disrupt blocking schemes. Barton has been a key part of Tampa Bay's improved offensive line, but he will need one of his best performances to keep Simmons from consistently getting into the backfield. Tristan Wirfs and the rest of the offensive line will also have their hands full. Tampa Bay cannot afford to let Chicago generate pressure with four defenders and force Mayfield into uncomfortable situations. The challenge becomes even more important considering Mayfield's recent injury concerns and Tampa Bay's reliance on its rushing attack. The Buccaneers have averaged 292 rushing yards over their last two games, but Chicago presents a much different defensive front than the one they faced against Carolina and Atlanta.

Tampa Bay needs to continue establishing the run without becoming predictable. Getting Bucky Irving and Kenny Gainwell involved can help slow down the pass rush, but the offensive line must also win its individual battles and communicate effectively against Chicago's defensive looks. The Bears made a major investment in Simmons because they believe he can transform their defense. Sunday will be a chance for Tampa Bay's offensive line to prove its recent improvement is sustainable against elite competition. If Barton and company cannot keep the pocket clean, Mayfield could be in for a very long night.