Buccaneers at Cardinals: Five Game-Changing Players
By Bailey Adams
Kwon Alexander
Kwon Alexander took over during the Bucs’ week one matchup in Atlanta. He was all over the field for Tampa Bay, finishing the day with an impressive stat line. He totaled 17 tackles (15 solo) with one sack, and even got props from Pro Football Focus of all people. The second-year linebacker was key in stopping Devonta Freeman, who rushed for just 20 yards on 11 carries. That’s why he can make a huge difference in this week’s game as well.
More from The Pewter Plank
- Devin White posts cryptic message to Lavonte David on Twitter
- ESPN predicts surprising outcome to Devin White trade saga
- Updated Buccaneers depth chart after signing two players from rookie minicamp
- Todd Bowles sends clear message about Baker Mayfield’s role with Bucs
- The Athletic is wrong about Bucs one ‘must-watch’ game in 2023
David Johnson will be the man to stop on Sunday for the Tampa Bay run defense. Johnson rushed for 89 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries against a tough New England defense, so he will be a challenge for the Bucs this week. He also caught four passes for 43 yards, so like Freeman, he’s a threat as a receiver out of the backfield. That’s where Alexander can be such a game-changer.
Throughout last season, Alexander was a constant force for the Bucs. He got his sophomore season off to a great start against Atlanta, and Tampa Bay will need him to be solid again on Sunday. If he plays a big part in stopping the run, Tampa Bay will be a step closer to holding a tough Arizona offense in check.
Next: Larry Fitzgerald