4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers at Bucs in Week 18
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers WR D.J. Moore gains 10+ receptions
Considering it’s been another season full of uncertainty at the quarterback position, that hasn’t stopped D.J. Moore from putting together his third-straight 1,000 receiving yard campaign. This represents a significant achievement from the former first-round pick, who has never had a stable presence under center since joining the Carolina Panthers.
Moore has been the only constant in a poor passing attack and offense overall where Carolina is concerned. Christian McCaffrey turned out in just seven games, Robby Anderson’s form dipped significantly, and there were little to no other notable contributions to further decimate the team’s chances.
The Maryland product doesn’t get nearly enough credit. If the Panthers got a little more creative with how they utilize Moore and acquire a quarterback that could make things happen consistently, he could end up being truly elite.
It would be a shock if Moore wasn’t the focal point once again at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With 153 targets already this season, another high volume game could bring about some additional production from the wideout in the face of what can be a suspect secondary at times.
One only has to look at how much the Bucs struggled to overcome an under-strength New York Jets team last weekend to see how Moore could profit from this matchup. Over 10 receptions might be pushing it, but it’s not impossible by any stretch.