Super Bowl 55: Why SF 49ers fans should root for Buccaneers

With the SF 49ers not participating in Super Bowl 55, fans should turn their attention to another “bay” team and root for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

It’s hard to argue with either team in this years finale, but it’s safe to say Niners fans don’t want to see the Kansas City Chiefs win another championship. At least not after what happened in Super Bowl 54 a year ago.

Almost everyone likes the underdog, and the Buccaneers are considered as such by a slim margin. Though, don’t be mistaken by the betting lines. Tampa Bay’s line up is filled with superstars who are worth cheering for.

SF 49ers and Buccaneers connections

As someone whose teams almost always lose, finding a reason to cheer for someone else gets pretty normal. But, it’s easier when the team is Tampa Bay, who’s helped the SF 49ers in the past.

If you weren’t aware, 49ers legend Steve Young was once a member of the Buccaneers. It’s not something extraordinary because he didn’t have great success there. But San Francisco traded for the lefty and it was one of the best moves for the franchise.

It’s hard to say if Young will pick the Buccaneers to win based on his connection with the organization, but it’s a legitimate reason for you to root for them.

Young wasn’t the only treasure the Niners snagged from Tampa Bay. Current general manager John Lynch was a member of the Buccaneers organization and is forever in their “ring of honor.”

Tom Brady

Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady grew up an SF 49ers fan and even saw “The Catch” in person:

Niner Noise’s Robert Morrison explained why the SF 49ers wouldn’t have made Super Bowl LV with the “GOAT” behind center.

Brady could win his seventh Super Bowl which would break his record of six. He’d also join Peyton Manning, who could’ve been a 49er in 2012, as the only quarterbacks to win a Super Bowl with two different teams.

CBS’ Jeff Kerr broke down more records Brady and Chiefs head coach Andy Reid could break after Super Bowl 55.

Brady’s been through a lot during his career. And, you either love him or hate him. But we can all agree what he’s accomplished at age 43 is worth acknowledging and cheering for.

Buccaneers who deserve a ring: Mike Evans

During their time with the SF 49ers, fans wanted former offensive lineman Joe Staley and running back Frank Gore to win the coveted ring. Unfortunately, it never happened for Staley, but there’s a still a chance for Gore if he plays next season.

Tampa Bay won its only championship in 2002. Since then, many players have come and gone from the organization. But wide receiver Mike Evans is one of the few who truly deserves some bling.

Evans has been with the Bucs since 2014. He’s posted seven straight 1,000-yard seasons, which is an NFL record. But it’s not about how consistent he’s been, rather about sticking with the team for many years.

He’s only been a part of two winning seasons, including this year. Their offence never cracked the top 10 in points until last season and dealt with terrible quarterback play.

Antonio Brown

Evans was one of Brady’s favorite targets in 2020 along with side receiver Antonio Brown.

Brown’s had an interesting path to Super Bowl 55, but he’s one of the NFL’s most dynamic players. He’s been fined more than he’s actually been paid, but he keeps his name on the front burner and bets on himself.

You can hate the man himself, but the numbers back up his play. He’s been named to the NFL Top 100 six times, being ranked second in 2018. He’s also a seven-time Pro Bowler and four-time first-team All-Pro.

Brown wasn’t healthy for most of the season and served a suspension, but in the games, he played in he caught 45 passes for 483 yards and four scores.

Ryan Succop

Another player who deserves a ring is long-time kicker Ryan Succop. The 12-year vet has his best chance against his former team to win.

Yes, kickers deserve some love too.

This could be one of the best Super Bowl’s as two future Hall of Fame quarterbacks look to make their own history. SF 49ers fans can hope history is in favor of Tampa Bay.