NFC Championship
(5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers at (1) Green Bay Packers
Buccaneers: The motto was simple this year. It’s win or bust. You’ve won the “GOAT Sweepstakes” and signed Tom, you’ve added a few more weapons around him, I can understand why the pressure was on them. This franchise has had some down years before this season. After losing to the Kansas City Chiefs, there was uncertainty surrounding them. Since then, they haven’t lost a football game. Brady is now on the same page with all his weapons. It took some time, but here we are months later. Also, the offensive line is playing stronger as well. After the game against the Saints in the divisional round, I left with a strong impression of their defense. That was the best I’ve seen them play by far. What exactly went right for the Buccaneers? First, they didn’t blitz much. Todd Bowles loves sending as many guys as he can and when he does, it hurts them. The Buccaneers were able to rush four men consistently, the linebackers took the middle of the field away and the secondary played tight man coverage across the board. You also saw how important Devin White is to this defense. Offensively, they didn’t turn the football over which was key. Now, they’re a game away from the Super Bowl which happens to be in Tampa Bay.
Packers: I’ve watched them a lot of them over the years. They’re always going to be in the mix. However, this is one of the better teams I’ve seen in recent memory. As usual, let me start with the quarterback. Aaron Rodgers is still one of the best in the business and will be until he decides to call it a career. This year was the best I’ve seen him look which is saying a lot considering the man has won two league MVP’s and a third one is on the way. As great of a football player that he is, he’s become a much better leader and that has stood out to me the most. The Packers’ offense has been “video game fun” to watch because of their explosiveness. Outside of Davante Adams and Aaron Jones, the others have stepped up such as Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Allen Lazard to name a few. Ever since their loss to the Indianapolis Colts, their defense has improved considerably. Jaire Alexander has put together a great season for their secondary. On Sunday, an icon is in town at Lambeau.
Buccaneers X-Factor: Leonard Fournette– When he was in the game on Sunday in New Orleans, he sparked up their running game. I was happy to see the Bucs feed him the ball. Leonard was even making catches against the Saints. I expect the Bucs to feed him the football as much as they can. Also, the Packers struggle to stop the run. Time of possession will be everything in keeping that Packers offense off the field.
Packers X-Factor: Za’Darius Smith– I love the energy he brings to the Packers defense. Za’Darius is a pure pass rusher that can line up anywhere. Also, he can pick up those pass-catching running backs in coverage. Even when the quarterback is moving the pocket, he finds a way to still get after the passer with his speed. I look for him to get the Green Bay front seven amped up to take Brady down.
Final Thoughts: So, it’s come down to this. The fourth and potential final meeting between these legendary quarterbacks. When they met back in week six, the Packers were embarrassed by the Buccaneers. That was also the Packers’ first loss on the season. Now, they meet with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. I expect the Packers to do all they can to throw Tom off his spot. When you apply pressure and get him moving in the pocket, he’s a different quarterback. For Tampa, they blitzed Aaron heavily the first meeting. They’ll play the same defense they did in New Orleans. I’m rushing four, but it’s key to keep Aaron in the pocket. He can still maneuver with his feet.
Prediction: Packers 28 Buccaneers 24
