New England Patriots: Keys to victory vs. Jameis Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Who are they: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers are lead by third year quarterback Jameis Winston. Winston has shown flashes of promise, but has not put it all together. However, similar to other quarterbacks of his age, he can really deliver at times. Hopefully this week will not be one of those weeks, but with the state of the Patriots defense, I would bet he has a big week.

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As for offensive playmakers, Mike Evans is a game changer whenever he steps on the field. However, unlike in years past, he is not alone. Desean Jackson joined the team this year, and while he only has 143 yards and a touchdown, he is a potential touchdown every time he is one the field. Per Foxsports, at 2-1, the Buccaneers are off to their best start since 2011. In terms of a running game, Jacquizz Rodgers averaged 5.2 yards per carry last week and seems to be creating balance for the team.

On defense, the usual players are banged up for the Buccaneers, as Lavonte David and Gerald Mccoy were injured earlier in the season, even though Mccoy played this past Sunday. David is not expected to play Thursday with a high ankle sprain keeping him out. Brent Grimes leads the back-end for the Bucs.

Final Prediction:

In a reversal from last week, New England Patriots 33 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30.