4 key matchups to watch as Buccaneers take on Giants
By Jamil King
Safeties and Linebackers vs. TE Evan Engram:
So far this season the Buccaneers’ defense has struggled to contain tight ends to an extent. In week one 49ers’ tight end George Kittle was able to score twice against the Bucs, but both were called back due to penalties. Last week in Carolina, Greg Olsen was able to have his way with the Bucs, posting 110 yards receiving on six receptions.
Evan Engram is the Giants best target on the offense as he leads the team in targets with 22, catching 17 of those for 164 yards and one touchdown on the year. Engram is speedy and athletic, will get a ton of looks due to the depleted receiving corp for the Giants, and could be a match up nightmare for the defense.
Drafted in the same class as O.J. Howard, the first round tight end will look to continue on his fast pace in his third year in the league. The Tampa linebackers and safety will have their hands full trying to contain the Ole Miss product.
Look out for the Buccaneers to use a lot of multiple defensive back looks in order to keep speed on the field and contain Engram. They will need another big game out of safety Jordan Whitehead and linebacker Lavonte David. Rookies Devin White (if healthy) and Mike Edwards will also need to step up for the pewter and red defense.