3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Bold Predictions for Week 2

Bold predictions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2.
Bold predictions for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2. / Chris Graythen/Getty Images
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After a divisional loss in Week 1, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are home in Week 2, hosting the Carolina Panthers. One of these teams will get their first win of the season, and it's Tampa who is the clear favorite to win, according to the odds on FanDuel Sportsbook.

However, with two teams that struggled in Week 1, the game could go either way, and even include a few surprises. With that in mind, here are three bold predictions for the Buccaneers against the Panthers.

3. Tampa Has a 100-Yard Rusher

This Carolina defense is horrendous against the run. They ranked dead last in rushing yards per attempt allowed, at 5.2. In Week 1, giving up 93 yards and three touchdowns on the ground to Josh Jacobs. Tampa Bay is expected to be in firmer control of this game than the Las Vegas Raiders were last week, which could lead to a run-heavy approach late in the game.

2. Leonard Fournette Finds the End Zone

The Week 1 rushing duties for this Tampa backfield belonged to Ronald Jones II, who took 17 carries for 66 yards. Leonard Fournette made his Buccaneers debut, but it was one to forget, rushing for five yards on five attempts. Still, he has the highest upside in this backfield and is a proven power runner. Expect Tampa to give him the chance to score, when they get down near the goal line.

1. Rob Gronkowski Scores a Touchdown

The Tom Brady-Rob Gronkowski connection was not there in Week 1, with Gronk catching just two passes for 11 yards. He had been out of football for a while, so it makes sense that he needs a bit to get up to full game speed. However, he is still an athletic, big target that Brady trusts. Assuming the Buccaneers get into the red zone more often this game, Brady may look to his old, trusted teammate often, trying to add another onto Gronk's touchdown total. Carolina also struggled to guard Darren Waller in Week 1, giving up six receptions for 45 yards.


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