WR Vincent Jackson and the Tampa Bay offense struggled early and fought back late in Sunday's loss to the Redskins. (US Presswire)

Another week and another near miss. As the Buccaneers enter their bye week, they will have plenty of time to stew over the lethargic start and late lapses that ultimately cost them the game in Sunday's 24-22 loss to the Redskins.

Offense: C

Sustaining drives is proving to be a tough effort for the Bucs, who did not have a drive of more than 41 yards in the entire game until the team got more aggressive in the passing game in the latter stages of the third quarter. The running game was uninspiring, with only one run of more than 10 yards all game. QB Josh Freeman was borderline awful in the first half, but redeemed himself down the stretch -- thanks largely to the deep threats posed by WRs Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams, who had strong games.

Previous game's grade: D

Defense: C

An inconsistent performance if there ever was one. The first half was a nightmare, as the four Redskins drives that followed a three-and-out to start ended in three touchdowns and a missed field goal. The rushing defense, a strength through the first three games, allowed Washington RB Alfred Morris to rush for 113 yards and a touchdown. But the second-half performance was as good as any Bucs fan could have hoped for -- at least until the final drive, when Robert Griffin III made plays with his arm and legs to set up the game-winning kick.

Previous game's grade: A+

Special teams: B+

No major flaws here. Connor Barth continues to be the definition of consistency, drilling all three of his field-goal tries to extend his team record to 25 consecutive successful kicks. None were easy, as they came from 47, 50 and 57 yards out. Punter Michael Koenen averaged 46.2 yards per punt, and the punt coverage team allowed only one return of any length. This group played well enough to win.

Previous game's grade: C-

Coaching: C-

Give credit to the coaches for getting the Bucs ready to turn things around in the second half, but give them consternation for the team's slow start. One has to wonder why the vertical passing attack didn't become more of a part of the arsenal until it was almost too late to come back. All of coach Greg Schiano's talk about discipline this season also appears to have fallen on deaf ears, as Tampa Bay committed 10 costly penalties for 107 yards.

Previous game's grade: C+

For more from Tampa Bay Bucs blogger Patrick Southern, follow @CBSBucs on Twitter.