The Carolina Panthers are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the first time this season in a divisional matchup on Sunday. This encounter marks the beginning of two games against the Buccaneers in December.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales has been preparing for this game, acknowledging that facing his former team is no longer strange. "So just seeing what a good job Liam's (offensive coordinator Liam Coen) been doing with that group, Baker (Mayfield) and the guys, finding ways to have success," he stated.
The Buccaneers' offense ranks seventh in the league, largely due to quarterback Baker Mayfield's performance. He averages 254.5 passing yards per game and has thrown 24 touchdowns with nine interceptions, boasting a quarterback rating of 104.1.
Despite challenges such as injuries to key players like Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, rookie running back Bucky Irving has emerged as a significant contributor. He leads Tampa Bay's rushing efforts with 579 yards and five touchdowns on 108 carries. In recent games, Irving showcased his versatility by also contributing through receiving plays.
Defensively, Tampa Bay struggles overall but boasts defensive tackle Vita Vea who is having an impressive season with six sacks so far. His presence was felt not only defensively but also offensively when he played fullback during a touchdown run against the Giants.
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