The Carolina Panthers (0-1) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) come into this game looking for their first wins with their new quarterbacks. Teddy Bridgewater signed a three year $63 million contract this offseason with the Panthers and Tom Brady signed a two year $50 million deal with the Buccaneers.
These division rivals have played each other 39 times, with the Panthers leading the all-time series 24-15. They won their final matchup last season 37-26 in Tampa Bay. Last week, the Panthers lost to the Las Vegas Raiders 34-30. The main concern for them is their rush defense, which allowed Josh Jacobs to rush for three touchdowns and 93 yards on 25 carries. The defense also didn’t record a sack.
The key to victory for the Panthers is to rely on All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey, who had 134 scrimmage yards last week. 94 of those yards were on the ground. He is their best playmaker in the running and passing game. Wide receiver Robby Anderson caught six passes for 115 yards and a touchdown in his Panthers debut.
Last week, the Buccaneers lost to the New Orleans Saints 34-23. Brady threw two interceptions, including a pick-six, which marks the first time in his career that he threw a pick-six in three consecutive games. The 43-year-old signal caller was 23-36 with 239 yards. He had a rushing touchdown and two passing touchdowns. The first passing touchdown was a nine-yard pass to tight end O.J. Howard, who finished with four catches and 36 yards. The second one was a two-yard touchdown to wide receiver Mike Evans. That was his only catch of the day.
The defense gave up 34 points because they struggled to get pressure on Drew Brees, as they only recorded one sack. They will need to be more effective against Bridgewater in order to win this game and force some mistakes. Last years’ sack leader Shaquil Barrett was a non-factor last week and will need to make a mark on this game.
Game Info
Date: Sunday, September 20.
Start Time: 1:00 PM E.T.
Location: Tampa Bay, Florida.
Stadium: Raymond James Stadium
TV Info: FOX
Betting Odds Sponsored by Jazz Sportsbook
Point Spread: CAR +8 (-110) | TB -8 (-110)
Moneyline: CAR +300 | TB -400
Over/Under: O 47.5 (-110) | U 47.5 (-110)
The Buccaneers offense will be better this week against the Panthers. Brady will be more efficient, which will create less scoring opportunities for Bridgewater and the Panthers. Take the Buccaneers despite giving up the eight points, expect a big game from Brady.
Prediction
It’s only Week 2, but the Buccaneers need to win this divisional matchup in order to have a chance to win the division. Expect Brady to be more consistent on the medium range routes early in the game. Ronald Jones II and Leonard Fournette should see increased usage in this one as well because of the Panthers’ subpar rush defense.
Final Score: Panthers 17, Buccaneers 27
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