Week 2 Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Arizona Cardinals

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1–0) vs. Arizona Cardinals (0–1)

After losing a close one at home, look for the Cardinals to rebound against the Buccaneers.

Key Factors

Pass Protection — The star player for the Bucs’ defense is Gerald McCoy along the interior of the defensive line. The Cardinals are likely to be without right guard Evan Mathis this week which puts a further strain along the interior; right tackle D.J. Humphries is a first-year starter and relied heavily on Mathis’ experience to help in pass protection. Carson Palmer did an okay job last week but given his immobility, the offense can’t afford the pocket to collapse.

Run Defense — The Bucs’ backfield is particularly tricky to defend; Doug Martin forced seven missed tackles in Week 1 while Charles Sims is one of the better receiving running backs in the league. Linebackers’ Deone Buccanon and Kevin Minter should recognize their elusiveness and make sure to take on the proper tackling angles.

Vincent Jackson vs. Brandon Williams — It’s no secret who the weak link is in the secondary. Rookie Brandon Williams was targeted early and often by the Patriots due to his inexperience at the position as Jameis Winston will likely look to throw his way. V-Jax could be in store for a big day; the savvy 33-year old veteran is 6'5" and could use his experience to take advantage of the rookie.

Overall Thoughts

A Bruce Arians Cardinals team has never gone 0–2 and I don’t expect that to happen, not on back-to-back home stands. The Buccaneers are an up-and-coming team but I’m expecting a rebound performance from an angry Cardinals squad. Their defense is much better than the Falcons as I do not expect Winston to have that same success in the NFC West.

Cardinals -6.5 Over 50

Buccaneers 21 Cardinals 30

JTW ATS Record: 2–1–0

2015 JTW ATS Record: 29–23–2