4 Panthers players who need to step up against the Buccaneers
By Dean Jones
Which members of the Carolina Panthers need to step up their game when they travel to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2?
The NFL is a fast-moving world and the focus is now fully on the Carolina Panthers’ Week 2 trip to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
There were some positives to take from their 34-30 home defeat at the hands of the Las Vegas Raiders. But plenty of adjustments will need to be made if the Carolina Panthers want to get anything out of their contest at Raymond James Stadium against a team that might be poised for a deep playoff run if they meet expectations.
This might be a good time to play the Bucs, who are still trying to fit a number of new pieces into their scheme. They appeared more than a little rusty during a loss to their NFC South divisional rival New Orleans Saints on Sunday and there could be an opportunity for the Pathers to capitalize if something similar transpires this weekend.
Everything needs to go right for Carolina against a potential Super Bowl challenger. Their offense should be able to continue their impressive start to the season against a suspect Bucs’ secondary. But concerns are growing on the defensive side of the ball thanks to a lack of pressure from their defensive front and poor production at the second level.
The pressure will be on the hosts, who need to show they belong in the postseason conversation, at the very least. Here are four Panthers players that need to step up their respective games against the Bucs next time out.