3 Biggest X-Factors For Panthers to Take Down Buccaneers in Week 7

The Carolina Panthers will be taking on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week, with the team looking to get another victory.

Carolina has now won two games in a row, coming off a big win over the Philadelphia Eagles a week ago. The Panthers have started to look more confident as each game passes by, giving thought to this team going on another playoff run.

Currently, the Panthers are leading the NFC South division, holding a record of 3-2 for the year. With this game being against a rival in the division, Carolina could pick up some extra ground with a win.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Panthers to keep the winning going strong against Tampa Bay.

1. Pressure the QB

The Buccaneers could be getting back starter Baker Mayfield for this game, with him opening up a practice window this week. If Mayfield can't go, rookie Jalon Daniels will get the start in his place once again.

But no matter who is under center for Tampa Bay, the Panthers' pass rush is going to have to generate some real pressure to make them uncomfortable. Daniels has proven to make mistakes when pressured early in his NFL career, and Mayfield would be coming off a thumb injury, giving Carolina a chance to throw him off any rhythm on a potential return. 

2. Limit Bucky Irving

Bucky Irving is one of the more explosive players on the Buccaneers offense, and if the Panthers can limit the run game, it would go a long way. Tampa Bay relies on the run to set up the pass, and the Panthers can shut this down.

Carolina stopped the Eagles run game a week ago, only allowing 35 rushing yards for the contest. While Tampa Bay is healthier than how Philadelphia was, the game plan remains the same, stack the box, and not allow the opponent to run all over the defense.

3. Keep Bryce Young Upright

After multiple questions about his game entering the year, Bryce Young has looked like a potential MVP candidate this season. Young has shown poise in the pocket, picking apart opposing defenses through the first five games.

But the Panthers offensive line will have to keep him upright, and they allowed two sacks a week ago to the Eagles. Tampa Bay has a feisty defense, and making sure that Young has time to throw the ball will be crucial.