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Which Missing Buccaneers’ Player Must Step Up?

By Alan Schechter

Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) is swarmed by the Arizona Cardinals defense during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeat the Buccaneers 40-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) is swarmed by the Arizona Cardinals defense during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeat the Buccaneers 40-7. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 11, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Akeem Spence (97) reacts to a stop against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 11, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Akeem Spence (97) reacts to a stop against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Bailey Adams

I think there are a lot of good choices for this one, but I’ll go with Akeem Spence. Spence was never going to be the top guy on this new Bucs’ defensive line, but he came into the year as someone with an opportunity to play a solid supporting role. Through two weeks, he hasn’t produced much for Tampa Bay, coming up with just one tackle. He has taken 26 snaps total through the first two games, which makes him look like an afterthought in the team’s defensive plans.

Spence has never been a world-beater, but he’s capable of a lot more than he is showing. Although his opportunities have been limited, he hasn’t been very effective in what little chances he has gotten. He certainly hasn’t looked like a guy that’s in his contract year. This Sunday and throughout the coming weeks, Spence is someone that has to take advantage of his opportunities if he doesn’t want to lose them altogether. 

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