4 big storylines to watch against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Can Teddy Bridgewater build on a positive debut?

The performance of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater was one of the bright spots from the Carolina Panthers’ loss in Week 1. All eyes were on their big-money signing in free agency and he performed well above expectations with an assured display under center.

Bridgewater was everything the Panthers thought he would be coming into the organization. He commanded the line of scrimmage well, provided accurate distribution for the most part, and was more mobile than some were anticipating.

There were some timing issues with his wide receivers. Bridgewater didn’t have a preseason schedule to build chemistry and this is something that will probably improve over time. But it was an encouraging display despite the eventual result.

If Bridgewater wants to make a real go of another starting opportunity in the NFL, then this sort of level has to be maintained or even increased as the campaign progresses. The Buccaneers do look a little suspect in their secondary, so if the signal-caller gets the same level of protection he received in their season opener there should be multiple opportunities to put significant points on the board.

Plenty of fans are still skeptical about Bridgewater and his long-term future in Carolina. The only way that the former first-round pick can alleviate these concerns is by producing on the field and he is off to a good start.