4 sneaky threats the Panthers should watch vs. the Bucs in Week 10

Which sneaky threats should the Carolina Panthers watch out for vs. the Bucs?

The Carolina Panthers face another massive test of their credentials at home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are also coming into the game with a massive point to prove after getting embarrassed at the Saints in Week 9. Their preparations weren’t aided by a severely delayed flight to Charlotte ahead of the early kickoff, but whether this impacts production on the field is another matter entirely.

It shouldn’t matter too much in the grand scheme of things. Besides, the Carolina Panthers have their own problems.

They are currently on a four-game losing run and will be without the services of star running back Christian McCaffrey due to a shoulder injury suffered in his first game in six weeks at the Chiefs last weekend. Matt Rhule has laid the foundations for a successful future by making the Panthers competitive in year one of his rebuild. But gaining a .500 record or better seems like an unrealistic proposition at this juncture.

We all know about the prominent playmakers on the Bucs. However, they also have plenty of sneaky threats who could make a real difference at Bank of America Stadium.

Player No. 1

Cameron Brate – TE

Cameron Brate might be something of an afterthought in Tampa Bay’s offense. But if the Panthers don’t account for his whereabouts when he is on the field, they will pay the price.

It’s going to be immensely difficult for Carolina to cover everybody on a consistent basis. Brate is clearly the second option at tight end behind Rob Gronkowski – something that has led to just 10 targets this season – but his big frame and ability to get open in the red zone warrants significant respect.