**
- Make Something Happen Early**
One key to the game with Green Bay is making an impact play (or a couple of them) at the beginning of the game. We saw Doug Martin break free for a 63-yard run on the second play of the game last week, setting up a Mike Evans TD to give the Bucs a 7-3 lead. Whether it's an early takeaway (perhaps a pick of Aaron Rodgers), a big pass play or a quick score, the Bucs must get something going from the jump to set the tone. Momentum is something that Tampa Bay has gotten numerous times early in games recently. Duplicate it on Sunday.
2. Run It, Run It, and Keep Running It
Get to know the key players on Green Bay before the Buccaneers take on the Packers Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.
We saw an effective ground game overall in Carolina. Creating that again will be a HUGE benefit on Sunday at Raymond James for several reasons. First, whether it's Martin, Charles Sims, or another back, getting them started with big runs will enable the play-calling to open up. The offense wants to run play action and keep playmakers like Julius Peppers and Clay Matthews on their heels. You cannot do that without effectively running the ball. Second, running the ball sustains drives and runs the clock, thereby keeping Rodgers and the Packers weapons off the field longer. Third and finally, it simply boils down to an attitude thing and we can expect that the Packers are going to look to do the same thing to the Bucs D with Eddie Lacy. "Impose your will." "Out-physical them." These are phrases tied to running the ball effectively and will be a key to winning.
3. When in Doubt, Don't Let Them Behind You
Maybe the biggest threat to Buccaneer victory on Sunday is Green Bay striking quickly downfield. The Packers have a staggering 15 passing plays of 40 yards or more so far this season, second-most in the NFL. Without question, Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb can make you pay with long receptions if you let them get behind you. So, for Alterraun Verner, Johnthan Banks, Bradley McDougald, Dashon Goldson and the rest of the Bucs' secondary, it is imperative to stay with those two as best as they can. Play deeper (safer) rather than gambling and giving up the big one that Green Bay's passing offense feeds off of. Holding the Packers to an ordinary day will set the Bucs up with the chance to win.
SUGGESTED
NEWS: Top 10 QuotesNEWS:
Key MatchupsVIDEO:
Pewter PanelVIDEO:
Injury Report
