The Chargers are 3-0 against the NFC South with a chance to make that 4-0 this weekend against the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay is first in the NFC South with a 7-6 record, so every game is crucial for their postseason chances.
The same can be said for the Chargers, who are 8-5 but far from a lock to make the playoffs. Without further ado, here are five Buccaneers players to watch this Sunday afternoon:
RB Bucky Irving
Irving has become the Buccaneers’ most dynamic tailback this season. The rookie is dealing with a back injury and is a question mark for Sunday, but if he plays, the Chargers will need to account for him. In his last three fully healthy games, Irving has combined for 50 carries, 312 rushing yards, 111 receiving yards, and three touchdowns.
TE Cade Otton
Otton has broken out in a big way this year and has become a go-to target for QB Baker Mayfield. The tight end already has career highs in catches (57) and receiving yards (576) while his four touchdowns are tied for the most in his three NFL seasons.
OT Tristan Wirfs
Now in his fifth NFL season, the Iowa product has become one of the best offensive tackles in all of football. In his first four seasons, he made three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro squads. He’s been the best pass-blocking tackle this season amongst 133 qualifying OTs according to Pro Football Focus. His matchup against the Chargers’ elite edge defenders will be crucial to who wins this game.
DT Vita Vea
Similar to Wirfs, Vea has become one of the best in the league at his respective position. The seventh-year defensive tackle is particularly effective rushing the quarterback, as he has 37 pressures and six sacks in 2024. Vea and fellow lineman Calijah Kancey could wreck havoc against the Chargers’ suspect interior offensive line.
DB Tykee Smith
Muchlike Irving, Smith is a major question mark for Sunday’s game. With multiple DBs out for the Buccaneers, Smith has stepped up recently. He’s become a big-time playmaker for Tampa Bay’s defense, as he has two interceptions, seven pass deflections, and three forced fumbles this season.