4 sneaky threats the Panthers should be wary of against the Bucs
By Dean Jones
Vita Vea – DT
It’s hard to fathom how a former No. 12 overall pick can be a sneaky threat. But Vita Vea still doesn’t get the credit he deserves for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The most tackle is an integral part of their 3-4 scheme, clogging up space on the interior for the likes of Shaquil Barrett, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Ndamukong Suh to do damage on the edge. Vea is everything one looks for in a formidable defensive lineman and how he is handled by the Carolina Panthers is going to go a long way to determining the overall outcome of the contest.
Vea started his 2020 season off on the front foot with an impressive display at the Saints. He logged two solo tackles and did enough to earn an impressive 70.0 grade from Pro Football Focus. But this failed to have an impact on the overall outcome.
Carolina’s offensive line play was a pleasant surprise last weekend in their season opener. They looked assured on the edge and even got some impressive production from their interior. The Bucs present their own set of problems that this unit must overcome and Vea will be an anchor that is incredibly difficult to move off the block.
light. Must Read. 4 most important Carolina Panthers players against the Buccaneers in Week 2
The coaching staff might have more attention on Barrett and Pierre-Paul. But Vea’s potential contribution should not be overlooked.