Buccaneers Select Starting Quarterback for Preseason Game Against Steelers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield will start the first preseason game with Kyle Trask starting the second preseason game.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback battle between Baker Mayfield and Kyle Trask will be taken into preseason, with Mayfield getting the first look under center.

According to Pewter Report, Mayfield will start the preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Trask will get his first chance to make his case for the starting position in the team's second preseason game against the New York Jets.

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The two quarterbacks have been rotating first-team reps throughout training camp, and neither quarterback has claimed the starting spot yet. With the battle undecided, the preseason provides both players to show their capabilities in live-game reps.

So far in training camp, Trask has done the better job protecting the ball. Through the first nine practices, Mayfield had tallied seven interceptions. 

"It's a great thing," coach Todd Bowles said after one practice. "Their number one responsibility is don't turn the ball over. He's been doing a good job of not turning it over."

However, Mayfield has a better chance of producing big plays. He can launch the ball down the field to find one of Mike Evans or Chris Godwin. 

For Mayfield, the key to the first preseason game is simple -- maintain possession of the football. Making smart reads and using checkdowns will be essential to Mayfield impressing the coaching staff, and he will set the standard before Trask gets his opportunity.

Between the two quarterbacks, Mayfield has more experience and is a great leader. If turnovers weren't an issue, there's a chance this open position battle could have been determined early on in camp.

Trask is the younger option who has played just one season backing up Tom Brady. The Florida product might have more upside as he could improve as a leader if given the starting position, and his preseason game could show his ability to take over on drives. 

Both quarterbacks offer different traits, and either direction the team leans will have its pros and cons. The position battle will continue to be something to keep an eye on throughout preseason. 

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