CAROLINA (--3) at TAMPA BAY -- When you look at this scenario, both these teams are desperate to avoid moving to 0-3 in the standings, which, while it wouldn't mean virtual expulsion from the playoff race, it would present a nearly insurmountable challenge for the loser. So which team is better equipped with its back to the wall? Well, must give some edges to Carolina. While Tampa Bay's QB Chris Simms has tossed six interceptions in the first two games, the Panthers counter with sharp veteran Jake Delhomme, who has gone on the road to win playoff games as recently as last January. Carolina would also seem to have an advantage on the offensive line over a Bucs' unit that is fighting off injuries. Panther rookie RB D'Angelo Williams is starting to emerge as a worthy counterpart to that other Williams on the opposite sideline (Cadillac). And last season's real Most Valuable player, WR Steve Smith, is being presented as a "game time decision," which means it's very possible he'll play. If so, he adds a great dimension to the attack, which has benefited by the arrival of Keyshawn Johnson. Matchup advantage as well to Carolina's defensive line, which should hurry the nervous Simms into more mistakes this week and which held the Bucs to less than three yards a rush in two meetings last year.
JAY'S PLAY: CAROLINA *** |
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