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Week 17 Grades for Buccaneers Win over Panthers

By David Harrison

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 outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) is congratulated by outside linebacker Daryl Smith (51) after he sacked Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) (not pictured) during the second half 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 outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) is congratulated by outside linebacker Daryl Smith (51) after he sacked Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) (not pictured) during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

LINEBACKERS: B+

Buccaneers’ linebackers Kwon Alexander and Lavonte David have had good season’s overall and while they can’t be happy with the way the previous two games have ended, they’re individual efforts have been above par.

David got himself a first half sack on quarterback Cam Newton and Alexander came up with five tackles before the break and nearly had a big interception off a deflected pass.

After halftime it was more of the same and David had perhaps his best complete game of the season getting to the quarterback twice to keep their opponents out of rhythm and off balance.

Must Read: WEEK 17 IMMEDIATE REACTIONS

In an unusual occurrence Alexander did not lead the team in tackles this afternoon, but he did total 10 tackles on the day with one for a loss and a pass defended.

Leveling his usual pattern of big hits and fast playing, the second year linebacker from Louisiana State University has certainly become a team leader this season, and the duo of he and David should keep the Buccaneers defense successful for quite some time.

It was a good final stand for the linebackers, and the grade reflects.

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