The Tampa Bay Buccaneers drew fierce criticism after their stunning loss to the Cleveland Browns Sunday. Particularly for their energy and preparation following the weather delay. Head coach Todd Bowles took the brunt of the heat, while Todd Monken earned his first career win as an NFL head man.

But Bowles didn't mince words about the Bucs' approach following the delay. Which he explained via Fox Sports NFC South reporter Greg Auman on Monday.

“We were very aware of everything we wanted to do when we came back out there and how we wanted it to go,” Bowles said regarding the two-hour delay due to inclement weather.

Still, the Bucs looked flat against a team that looked inept in their season opener. Cleveland looked more structured and organized with Deshaun Watson back behind center. The quarterback looked more efficient compared to his week one abomination: 24-of-30 passing for 238 yards and tossed two touchdowns. Plus didn't toss one interception. Watson also added 22 rushing yards on seven carries.

Now the Bucs' loss is cranking up the hot seat temperature underneath Bowles. His team already missed the playoffs and winning a winnable NFC South last season to the Carolina Panthers. The franchise even hit brief distractions involving Baker Mayfield and his pending extension, plus star defensive lineman Vita Vea requesting a trade before the season.

Now Tampa Bay is off to an 0-2 start following the letdown loss to Cleveland. And Bowles spent Monday defending his team for how they rolled out of lengthy weather delay. Now they must take on an undefeated Minnesota Vikings team next Sunday.