The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are hoping to turn things around this season, while the New England Patriots are looking to continue dominance that has lasted for more than a decade. The two teams will meet Friday night in the second week of the preseason, and both teams have some solid fantasy options worth looking at.
Fantasy football preview: Buccaneers vs. Patriots
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are going to take on the New England Patriots on Friday. We break down the fantasy implications.
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For the Patriots, it's obvious: Tom Brady. He'll always be one of the top quarterbacks drafted (until he retires) and watching him look good in the preseason isn't something that's needed to confirm his draft worthiness. Outside of Brady, the Patriots wide receiver group took a hit when they lost Wes Welker, but the running back position looks to be a strength for the first time in a long time.
In the first preseason game, Stevan Ridley carried the ball eight times for 92 yards and a touchdown, and his backup LeGarrette Blount carried the ball 11 times for 101 yards and a pair of touchdowns. These guys are the guys to watch, especially when it comes to how the carries are divided.
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, are relying more on veteran talent than anything else at this point. Josh Freeman will be looking for Vincent Jackson and Mike Williams, both of which are solid receiver options in fantasy.
Doug Martin is the younger guy that should be drafted relatively early, given his 1,454 yards in his rookie season. He's looking like one of the top running backs for this coming season and his value should only go up if he plays to the level expected. These are the primary options for the Bucs to watch out for.
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