Games the Buccaneers ought to win
These games will prove to be a little bit tougher for the crew from Tampa. But remember, it’s not all about the offense anymore. Yes, the offense is there and is darn hard to take care of. But the defense showed it has something to say in these games, too. And that is what will make the difference in the following games:
Rams: This was a knock-down-drag-out game last season. But Tampa’s offense hadn’t solidified yet, and the defense was still working out the kinks. Whether the Rams could have upset the Bucs applecart after the break remains to be seen. But the team that finished the season would be hard to beat, and the Rams are not going to be the ones to do it.
New Orleans: (Halloween). Trick or treat will be a Buccaneers treat. The Saints will have a new quarterback, and odds are it will be Jameis Winston. But Winston has to prove he’s not the pick-machine he was in Tampa. Sure, he may be better than that ugly year, but the Buccaneers will be ready for him.
Washington: The Washington no names. Are they going to get a new quarterback? If not, they will have the same quarterback who played way over his head in the playoff game against Tampa last year. But is he good enough to beat out Ryan Fitzpatrick? Truly, if Fitzpatrick starts, we might have to recalibrate the score total. But barring that, this is Bucs all the way.
Colts: Plain and simple, the Colts are not ready to handle a team like Tampa. Yes, they are a building team with some good parts, but really? Tampa takes this one home too.
Panthers: The start of the sweep. I give the Panthers some hope in putting them in this set, but really, no chance.
Panthers for the second time: No chance. Even if the Bucs blow the earlier game, they won’t mess this one up. So, this would give the Bucs 14 victories with no defeats unless something happens in any of the following three games.