Eight Players to Watch: Falcons at Buccaneers
As the Atlanta Falcons take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the second time this season, watch out for these eight players from both team that could play a role in the divisional match-up.
In the Atlanta Falcons victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 3, S Kemal Ishmael played a significant role picking off Buccaneers QB Josh McCown and scoring a touchdown. With McCown returning to the starting position, Ishmael will have an opportunity for a repeat performance in this week's game.
Buccaneers rookie RB Charles Sims may get his first opportunity for regular season action after being added to the active roster last week. Sims suffered an ankle injury during the preseason and returned to practice the last two weeks.
In the team's last meeting, WR Devin Hester scored a touchdown on a punt return breaking the record for return touchdowns and high-stepping his way into history. Hester's role as both a wide receiver and a returner have made him a dual threat for the Falcons.
Notably missing during the team's last meeting in Week 3 was DT Gerald McCoy. McCoy leads the team in sacks with five and has been a dominant member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense.
Stepping up his game and bringing the pressure, DE Jonathan Massaquoi leads the team in sacks with two including one on Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Josh McCown in Week 3. Massaquoi is questionable for this Sunday's game, but was listed as a full participant in Friday's practice.
Leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in tackles is LB Lavonte David with 89 which puts him at the second highest in the league. Neutralizing David will be key in order for the Falcons offense to get in rhythm.
During the team's last meeting, QB Matt Ryan's passer rating was 155.9 after completing 21 of 24 passes for 286 yards including three touchdowns. Ryan looked impressive during last week's game during the first half, but struggled during the second. Putting together a full four quarters is important for the offense in this week's game.
Buccaneers QB Josh McCown is back after breaking his thumb during the team's last meeting in Week 3. McCown is looking to get his team back on track after a 1-7 start to the season.
