Tampa Bay Buccaneers Winners and Losers Week 17

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Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin (13) runs with the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive back Javien Elliott (35) tackles during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Loser: Defenders’ Hands

In a game where the Bucs had three interceptions they easily could’ve had more today. There were three major plays that resulted in the Bucs defender almost coming down with an interception. Kwon Alexander had an easy tipped pass fall into his lap but I guess he took his eye off the ball because he couldn’t bring it all the way in.

Next was Chris Conte. Conte may have actually come down with this one but after review the officials believed he did not maintain possession. Conte actually made a great break on the ball and had a chance to bring it in. It moved a little on his way down and with the NFL rules no one knows what a catch actually is.

Third was Javien Elliot, undrafted rookie out of Florida State. Late in the game Elliott had a chance to clinch the game for Tampa. Maybe he got too excited but when the ball got to him it fell right to the ground on his way down. The Bucs had a great day on defense but it could’ve been even better if the Bucs defenders didn’t put butter on their gloves before today’s game.

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