The next two weeks will be a test for the largely untested Bucs, since they travel to Carolina and Indy. This season reminds me a lot of ‘05 when the Bucs were overlooked to start the season, the team went 4-0 against an easy schedule but lost it’s games against good opponents. That was the same season the Bucs had an early exit from the playoffs. Get where I’m going with this? If the Bucs fail to show up in the next two games feel free to write off their playoff chances.
BY THE NUMBERS (DVOA and DAVE explained here)
Buccaneers
Offense: ppg, 20.3 – DVOA, 18.0% (#7) – DAVE, 9.7% (#7)
Defense: ppg, 12.3 – DVOA, -20.3% (#3) – DAVE, -13.3% (#3)
Panthers
Offense: ppg, 25.0 – DVOA, 17.4% (#8) – DAVE, 6.3% (#10)
Defense: ppg, 22.3 – DVOA, 15.8% (#23) – DAVE, 0.5% (#17)
After their domination of the Rams, the Bucs saw their stats get significantly better especially the DVOA numbers on both sides of the ball. The Bucs defense is back on top but surprisingly the offense is not far behind. The Panthers offense is also in the top ten but David Carr is somewhat of an x-factor in this equation. Personally, I’m not thrilled about Carr stepping into the starter’s shoes but then again I could be wrong. Oddly enough the Panthers defense has given a poor effort this season and is ranked in the bottom half of the NFL. Their rushing defense has held up but the secondary has as many holes as swiss cheese.
BY THE PLAYERS
Joey Galloway vs. Panther Secondary
Last week the much maligned Joey Harrington threw for 361 yards and almost won the game until DeAngelo Hall opened his mouth. Expect Jeff Garcia to do the same this weekend (pass not run his mouth), which means his favorite target, i.e. Galloway, will have a busy day. It’s only a matter of time before teams start double-teaming Galloway seeing as how he’s the only receiver with a pulse, and I’m willing to guess John Fox will exploit that weakness. But even at the ripe ol’ age of 35 Galloway is faster than most corners in the league so I expect a close victory for the Bucs in Carolina.
