Buccaneers vs Panthers: 3 Matchups to Watch

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TAMPA, FL – OCTOBER 21: O.J. Howard #80 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signals a first down after making a 24-yard reception during the third quarter against the Cleveland Browns on October 2, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers won 26-23 in overtime. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /

O.J. Howard versus the Carolina defense

Last week we marked down O.J. Howard‘s match-up with the Bengals defense as one to watch, and the giant elite tight end delivered, scoring the game-tying touchdown and registering six catches for 68 yards. Like the Bengals, the Carolina Panther defense struggles mightily against the tight end, having been roasted by Tyler Eifert, Jordan Reed, Vernon Davis and Zach Ertz, and last week they gave up a touchdown to Ravens rookie tight end Hayden Hurst.

The Buccaneers should obviously be able to exploit this match-up. Howard is almost match-up proof at this point because of his elite skill-set, but his targets have been reserved. Keeping his overall output limited.

With Ryan Fitzpatrick back at the helm and the Buccaneer offense set for full-throttle, I see no reason why the team won’t let Howard completely off the leash in this game, especially with receivers Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson facing relatively tough cornerbacks.

Next. Buccaneers Midseason Awards: MVP, Breakout player and more. dark

That’s it for the match-ups to watch this week. In general, I think that this game should be high-scoring and really entertaining, with two elite offenses that go about their business in very different ways. Be sure to check back next week for more match-ups to watch against the Washington Redskins.

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