Bucs Run Block vs. Saints Front
This still hinges on the interior line of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, especially guard Ben Bredeson, center Graham Barton, and guard Dan Feeney, matching up against the defensive front of New Orleans Saints players like Cameron Jordan, Davon Godchaux, and Bryan Bresee.
If they open holes, then the running back room, including Bucky Irving fresh off his return and perhaps the likes of Rachaad White or Sean Tucker, could really get going.
Bucs Pass-Catchers vs. Saints Secondary — Who steps up ?
Tampa Bay may still be without some of its usual stars or be working them back slowly. According to the latest injury report, wide receivers Mike Evans (collarbone) and Jalen McMillan (neck) are listed on injured reserve with limited practice.
That elevates the role of “depth” as the Bucs may lean heavily on emerging contributors such as Emeka Egbuka and newly returned Chris Godwin Jr to challenge the Saints’ secondary. This could define whether the Bucs’ passing offense keeps up or stalls if New Orleans can focus on shutting down the depth pieces.
Pass Protection & Quarterback Health vs. Saints Pass Rush — Can Tampa keep the pocket clean for success?
On the Bucs side, starting left tackle Tristan Wirfs remains in question as he did not participate in practice this week due to an oblique issue. That could weaken pass protection up front.
On the other hand, the Saints’ defensive front can generate pressure and disrupt the pocket. If Tampa’s line is compromised and protection breaks down, their passing game, especially given the uncertain wide receiver corps, could be in serious trouble.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 3 Matchups to watch as the Bucs face the Saints in Week 14
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