The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming off two big wins against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Seattle Seahawks, thrusting them into playoff contention.

Heading into week 13, the Bucs (6-5) are one game behind the Atlanta Falcons (7-4) in the race for the NFC South division. Tampa Bay is also right in the thick of things for the NFC Wild Card, trailing the Washington Redskins (6-4- 1) for the second wild card spot by half a game.

Tampa Bay appeared to be falling out of the playoff race following a 43-28 loss at home to the Falcons. Boosted by the return of pro-bowl running back Doug Martin, the Bucs have strung together three consecutive wins against the Bears, Chiefs, and Seahawks, placing them back into contention.

In order for Tampa Bay to remain in contention their defense will need to continue to be as strong as it has been the past three weeks, giving up an average of 11 points per game while forcing nine turnovers during this three-game stretch compared to the 29 points per game and forcing a total of 11 turnovers in the eight games prior.

Quarterback Jameis Winston will need to continue improving on his ball management. Winston threw eight interceptions in the first four weeks of the season, but since then  has thrown just three interceptions. Winston also needs to keep finding star wide receiver, Mike Evans. Evans is currently tied for the league lead in touchdown receptions with 10.

The Bucs have a favorable schedule the rest of the season, as four of their final five games are against teams under .500. The one over .500 team in the NFL’s best, the Dallas Cowboys (11-1), who the Bucs travel to face in week 15.

The playoff push continues this week in San Diego where Tampa Bay plays a 5-6 Chargers team. The team then returns home to take on a division rival, the New Orleans Saints. Following that they play Dallas then New Orleans once more, this time on the road. The Bucs will wrap up the season hosting the under-performing, defending NFC Champion Carolina Panthers on New Year’s Day, a team who the Bucs already defeated in week five.