Buccaneers: Week 16 game changers against Carolina

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TAMPA, FL – OCTOBER 29: Head coach Dirk Koetter of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and head coach Ron Rivera of the Carolina Panthers shakes hands on the field following the Panthers’ 17-3 win over the Buccaneers at an NFL football game on October 29, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /

The Buccaneers (4-10) fell just short on Monday Night Football and will now have a quick turnaround. They hit the road this week for a Christmas Eve matchup with the Panthers (10-4). Here, we break down five players who can change the outcome of the game.

After a valiant effort against the Falcons on Monday night, the Buccaneers are forced to bounce back quickly. They finish up their road schedule this week, taking on the division rival Panthers. Last time the two teams squared off, Tampa Bay was absolutely no match for Carolina. The Bucs failed to score a touchdown, falling 17-3 at home. This time around, there’s less on the line for the red and pewter, but plenty left for the Panthers. Carolina is 10-4 and very much in play for the division title.

With ten more injuries added to existing issues, the Bucs will be extremely short-handed in Sunday’s game. Despite the fact that the roster was depleted, Tampa Bay put up a great fight against a good Atlanta team. That bodes well for head coach Dirk Koetter, but he will need to keep the team focused and fighting for the final two games.

Which five players will most directly impact this Sunday’s final score?

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