Now firmly in the driver’s seat atop the NFC South, the Buccaneers are two wins away from a third-straight division title and fourth-straight playoff berth. The Jacksonville Jaguars are arguably the best team left on Tampa Bay’s regular season slate, but they are by no means unbeatable.
The biggest question for both teams heading into their matchup is Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s game status. He has been in the concussion protocol all week and as of Friday, has not yet cleared it. As the centerpiece of Jacksonville’s offense, Lawrence’s absence would be a massive blow to their chances against the Bucs.
The Bucs will look to continue their late season improvement after posting their strongest offensive outing yet last week in Green Bay. With the offense on the rise, head coach Todd Bowles will need his defense to follow suit.
Here are the three keys to victory for the Bucs’ week 16 matchup with the Jaguars: