Chris Simms was downright awful last week in a 15-10 loss to the Niners. The defense was solid, but let some runs for first downs hurt us. Our running game was non-existent and special teams, average.
This week the Bucs take on the streaking division rivals Carolina Panthers in the home confines of Raymond James Stadium. After starting 1-2, the Panthers have won four in a row. They come into the game with a solid defense, a good running game and an effective passing game.
The Bucs defense is extremely good... we would be undefeated if our offense had not turned the ball over, giving the Jets and Niners short fields and certain points... points which lead to losses. No team has effectively driven the length of the field this year, so if the Bucs can get a running game, convert third downs and not turn the ball over, they have a chance to win. My fear, however, is that Simms will under-perform, thereby allowing the Panthers D to stuff the line and stop our run. Simms will be forced to pass, turnovers will occur and that will be that.
My Heart: Bucs 21-17.
My Mind: Panthers 17-10.
My Colon: Panthers 30-17.
My Pick: Panthers 23-12...
Last week showed that anything can happen in any given week in the NFL. The Bucs certainly have the talent to beat the Panthers, but Simms is still looking for his first win as a starter and I don't think he'll handle the pressure associated with a divisional game for first place.
And next week it doesn't get any easier in Washington against their tough defense. In two weeks the Bucs could be 5-4 and wondering if they'll even make the playoffs.
My Record: 4- 3.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment