The Cleveland Browns bring their undefeated record into Tampa Bay for a Week 3 preseason matchup against the Buccaneers. The Browns beat the Redskins, 30-10, at home in Week 1 and followed that up by edging out the Colts on the road, 21-18. Tampa Bay looks to make it two wins in a row after defeating the Dolphins at home on a Matt Gay game-winning field goal. This is the 11th meeting between the two teams in the preseason with the series currently tied.
NFL Preseason: Browns vs Bucs
- When: Friday, August 23
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- TV: NFL Network
- Live Stream: fuboTV (watch for free)
This is the third week of the preseason and perhaps our first glimpse at a majority of the starters playing a significant amount of time. In week one, heralded quarterback Baker Mayfield lived up to expectations, completing five of his six passes for 77 yards and one touchdown. In week two, it was Garrett Gilbert taking the reins. Gilbert, who last played in the AAF for the Orlando Apollos linked up with former teammate D’Ernest Johnson, who had 53 yards rushing, 26 yards receiving and one touchdown. This week we will see more Mayfield as well as running back Nick Chubb and star wide receivers, Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry. Defensively, the Browns provide a massive test for Tampa Bay with Pro Bowler Myles Garrett upfront and Denzel Ward at corner.
For the hometown Buccaneers, they are looking for consistency. One position that has been lacking in recent years is in the kicking game. Matt Gay, who they selected in the fifth round of the NFL Draft has been a breath of fresh air. Gay nailed a 55 yarder against the Steelers in week one and then hit a 48-yard game-winner last week. Jameis Winston will be without the team’s leading wide receiver Mike Evans, who is sidelined with an injury in his left leg.
The Buccaneers defense is talented, but very young, especially in the secondary. How can new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles’ group perform against the Browns aerial attack? Vita Vea, Lavonte Davis and safety Justin Evans are out with injuries. Look for the Buccaneers front line with Ndamukong Suh, Beau Allen, and William Gholston to put pressure on Mayfield early.
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