Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3 Bold predictions for Week 2 vs. Panthers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are looking to avoid an 0-2 start versus the Panthers.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers did not get off to the start they were hoping for in their week 1 loss at the New Orleans Saints. The division rivalry game left the Bucs with the knowledge that they still have some work to do if they want to be on the Saints level.
Week 2 offers another division opponent when they host the Carolina Panthers. Things should have a much different look this Sunday compared to last week. For the Buccaneers to get to where they want to go, they can’t afford to start 0-2, especially with the Panthers being one of the two games.
With an important second division game on tap, here are three bold predictions for the Buccaneers in their game against Carolina on Sunday.
3. Tom Brady will bounce back with at least 350 yards passing and two TDs
Tom Brady’s second chapter got off to a rocky start against the Saints and is looking to rebound this week against the Carolina Panthers. Brady was not completely horrible and he did manage to account for three touchdowns in the game (two passing, one rushing).
Unfortunately for Brady, he also threw two interceptions including a costly pick-six in the third quarter. The second interception in particular was both a poor throw and probably an even worse decision. He looked more like Jameis Winston on the play and not the guy who is getting roughly $25 million guaranteed over the next two seasons.
Brady also drew criticism from head coach Bruce Arians both for the mistakes and his lack of “grit” during Sunday’s game. If we know anything about Brady and his mentality, all of the criticism he has been receiving during this week will serve as motivation for him this Sunday. Combine this with the fact the Panthers just gave up 388 total offensive yards to the Raiders and allowed Derek Carr to post a 107.5 QB rating, and you can expect special things from Brady on Sunday.
It’s more than likely Arians was trying to poke Brady through the media so he can see him respond on Sunday. Brady has always shown mental toughness throughout his career and this week against this Panthers defense will be no different.