2014 Season Preview: 5 Questions with The Pewter Plank
By Mike Praser
What do you feel the Buccaneers’ weakest link is going into Training Camp?
"Tampa Bay could be very weak at guard this season. Carl Nicks might not even get on the field, and that means that rookie Kadeem Edwards could become the team’s starter at LG. Fellow rookie guard Kevin Pamphile might also get extensive work at either LG or RG this year."
Nov 23, 2013; Laramie, WY, USA; Wyoming Cowboys wide receiver Robert Herron (6) runs for a touchdown against the Hawaii Warriors during the second quarter at War Memorial Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Warriors 59-56 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
Can you tell us about a player on the roster who hasn’t reached the spotlight but you feel will be a difference maker in 2014?
"There are plenty of guys on this roster that are capable of having a breakout season, but with all of the focus on Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson, rookie sixth round pick could become Tampa Bay’s starting slot WR. If that were to occur, the former Wyoming Cowboy has the game-breaking speed to take the league by surprise, and leave defenders in the dust."
Jun 10, 2014; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith during minicamp at One Buccaneer Place. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
I know it’s ridiculously early, but I know everyone looks at the schedule in the offseason trying to predict wins and losses. How do you feel about the matchup against the Bears?
"A trip to Chicago to play the Bears is always tough, but the Bucs will have a little extra motivation as they try to win one for former Bears HC Lovie Smith. If Josh McCown is under center, the Bears have the advantage of having practiced against him weekly for a few years. While it is very early, both teams seem to be built in a very similar fashion. Tampa Bay, at this point, probably has the better defense. But the Buccaneers are putting a lot of faith into many young players on offense. It could all come down to what Jay Cutler shows up to play that day. If good Jay Cutler is firing on all cylinders, the Bears might have too much offensive firepower to contain. If bad Jay rears his ugly head, then Tampa’s defense will surely make him pay. If I’m picking today, the Bucs score just enough to get by. Buccaneers win, 27-24."
What do you think Bears fans? Do you think that the Bears have an advantage if Josh McCown is under center? Do you think that the Bucs can score enough to beat the Bears? How about your feelings about Lovie Smith? Do you think that being the former Bears Head Coach will give him an advantage? What about the good Jay vs. bad Jay. Is that even valid anymore? Let me know what you think in the comments section below.
I want to thank Nick John from the Pewter Plank for taking the time out to answer our 5 Questions about the matchup between the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Make sure you check out the Pewter Plank for all your news and info about the Buccaneers.