NFC South Power Rankings: Week 4 standings

Sep 27, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Logan Mankins (70) reacts during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-2)
Last week: 3

The Buccaneers’ first test against a strong defense ended badly, posting just nine points against the Houston Texans. The loss meant they dropped to 1-2 for the season, two games back on the Falcons and Panthers—they play the latter in Week 4.

There we some positives to take from the loss. Winston wasn’t sacked during the game and Mike Evans looked sharp after returning back from injury. This is the formula they will need to move forward. Other than that, there isn’t much good to take.

After playing the Panthers, they host the Jaguars and then travel on the road to take on the Redskins. These are winnable games, but the Buccaneers will need to play much better.

Week 4: Carolina Panthers

Tampa Bay hosts Carolina this week, and the Bucs will need to find a way of slowing down Cam Newton, who has led his team to three straight victories. Can they pull off the upset?

Next: No. 2