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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 5 X-factor players for Week 1 vs. Saints

By Bob Blackwood

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 08: LeSean McCoy #25 and Leonard Fornette #28 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers interact during training camp at Raymond James Stadium on September 08, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 08: LeSean McCoy #25 and Leonard Fornette #28 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers interact during training camp at Raymond James Stadium on September 08, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Lavonte David, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

2. Lavonte David, Inside Linebacker

Lavonte David may be the most underrated defensive player in the NFL. On Sunday, he finally gets his opportunity to take his first step into the national spotlight. Last season was his usual spectacular self with 123 combined tackles and three forced fumbles.

Although he seems like an easy X-factor, if he is unable to establish his presence then it will be a disaster for the Buccaneers defense.

The Saints just reinforced the interior of their offensive line with the drafting of guard Cesar Ruiz. Although they are known for their passing game with Drew Brees and Michael Thomas, the Saints love to base their offense off of their run game. Due to this, the Buccaneers will need David to fly around the field and help limit the Saints running attack.

If he can help disrupt the running game and also help with coverage on tight ends and a little help on Alvin Kamara, the Buccaneers could get enough from the defense to help the offense lead the way. While David is not the only quality player for the defense, he is still the heart and soul of the defense. A bad day for him will likely lead to a bad day for the unit as a whole.

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