Buccaneers: Players to watch against the Falcons in Week 12

Who are the five key players to watch as the Buccaneers travel to Atlanta to take on the Falcons?

This is a series that goes back to 1977 with the Buccaneers leading the all-time series Overall Series 24-23.  The Last game these two clubs played was the highest scoring in the series history as the Falcons topped the Buccaneers by a score of 43-28.  This loss ignited the Buccaneers last season as afterward they went on a five-game win streak and nearly made the playoffs.

This season both teams are currently riding two-game win streaks, but are on the opposite end of the playoff contention.  The Falcons are 6-4 while the Buccaneers are 4-6.  If the season were to have ended last week, Atlanta would be one of three teams from the NFC South that would be in the playoffs.

Since Ryan Fitzpatrick has taken over for the Buccaneers for the injured Jameis Winston, the defense finally picked up where they left off last season.  Over the current two-game win streak the Bucs are only giving up 15 points per game and are forcing turnovers as they had two against the Jets and then five in Miami against the Dolphins.  While neither team is known for their offensive prowess this season, it’s still a comforting notion that Tampa can hold opponents to under three scores a game.

Now we take a look at the five players that could have the most significant impact on the upcoming contest.