Panthers Look for Consecutive Wins Against Buccaneers: A Fan’s Preview
The Carolina Panthers will look for back-to-back wins for the first time in two years when they take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Dec. 4th.The Buccaneers have lost five straight as the Panthers come off their third win of the season. Here are some keys for a Panthers victory.
Panthers Need A Strong Rushing Attack
The Panthers got a strong game from both DeAngelo Williams(notes) and Jonathan Stewart(notes) against the Indianapolis Colts last weekend. Williams had 69 yards and two touchdowns as Stewart added 70 yards. The Panthers rushing game has a chance for another big game with the Buccaneers allowing at least 177 yards in four of the last five games. They gave up 202 rushing yards against the Tennessee Titans last week. If Carolina's backs and Cam Newton(notes) can get going on the ground, the Panthers will control this game and be in a great position to win.
Win The Turnover Battle
Tampa Bay has struggled all season with turnovers. They have 23 so far, which is four more than 2010. They also had five against the Titans. Another issue for the Buccaneers is Josh Freeman's(notes) interceptions in the fourth quarter. Freeman has thrown six this year, which is three more than all of last season. Newton has also struggle with interceptions, although he didn't have one last game. If the Panthers can create turnovers and turn them into points, without mistakes of their own, they will have a very successful game.
Throw All Over The Buccaneers Secondary
Tampa Bay has allowed 254.9 yards on average this season, which ranks them 28th in the league. The Panthers average 263.5 yards in the air, which is good enough for 9th in the league. Newton should be able to find openings in the Buccaneers secondary. I fully expect Newton and go to target Steve Smith to both have a big day. Smith should be able to exploit any one on one match-up he sees and be a deep threat in the aerial passing game. Also, I'd look for Greg Olsen(notes) to have a good game from the tight end position.
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