After a blowout loss in Arizona on Sunday, the 1-1 Buccaneers return home this week for their 2016 home opener against the Los Angeles Rams. Here, we break down five players that can decide the outcome of Sunday’s game.
The Buccaneers were embarrassed by the Arizona Cardinals in week two, falling 40-7. This week, Tampa Bay takes the field at Raymond James Stadium for the first time this season, hosting the Los Angeles Rams. Both teams have had similar seasons to this point, coming away with a close win in one game and being manhandled in the other.
Tampa Bay couldn’t get anything going offensively last week, with Jameis Winston throwing four interceptions and fumbling once. The defense couldn’t get any sort of pass rush going, which made for a long day against Carson Palmer. Los Angeles is coming off of a 9-3 win against the Seahawks, but is still without a touchdown through two games. Case Keenum is still the team’s quarterback, while this year’s No. 1 overall pick Jared Goff waits on the bench.
The Rams came away with a 31-23 win over the Bucs in St. Louis last year. Keenum had a big game, completing 14 of his 17 attempts for 234 yards and two touchdowns. Mike Evans had a big day for Tampa Bay, catching nine passes for 157 yards.
Both teams will be looking for a convincing win this week. Which players have the ability to change the game’s outcome?