Carolina Panthers Week 2 grades vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 12: Tre Boston #33 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after a play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 12, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Carolina Panthers

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 12: Luke Kuechly #59 of the Carolina Panthers after a safety in the fourth quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 12, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

Defense

Defensive Line: A-
Linebackers: B
Defensive Backs: C+

The Panthers continued to play well defensively in their new 3-4 scheme, generating pressure and getting a late safety courtesy of Luke Kuechly. Dontari Poe and rookie, first-round pick Brian Burns each added a sack, in addition to Mario Addison and Jermaine Carter – who shared one.

Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston wasn’t forced into mistakes, as he was a week prior, but he only completed 16 passes albeit one for a touchdown. Overall, it was a solid effort for Carolina and one that should have been better rewarded.

After struggling down the stretch last season, it appeared having Rivera take over defensive play calling improved this unit, although they continue to give up big pass plays at inopportune times.

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