Week 17 Grades for Buccaneers Win over Panthers

Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) points to the fans after they beat the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) points to the fans after they beat the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
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Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) calls a a play against the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) calls a a play against the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

QUARTERBACK: A

Jameis Winston’s season has been a one-man reflection of the Buccaneers’ 2016 campaign in general. Lots of ups and downs with some magnificent highs and frustrating lows.

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With his team’s playoff chances hinging on his performance the second year quarterback rang in the New Year with two first half turnovers including a fumble after he was stripped from behind by Carolina defensive end Wes Horton.

Previous to the fumble, Winston had a pass careen off of his receiver’s hand into the arms of rookie James Bradberry giving the Panthers prime field position with a 7-3 lead.

The second-year quarterback came into the second half looking much more poised and controlled as he led his team on two second half touchdown drives.

His one scoring toss went to Mike Evans to get his squad the lead they would never give up.

Inside the win, Winston set the team record for passing yards in a single season and there should be no doubt he’s this team’s quarterback of the future.

Set records, you get high grades.

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