The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will turn to rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels in Week Four.
Daniels will make his first NFL start against the Green Bay Packers at Raymond James Stadium. Baker Mayfield will miss at least three weeks after dislocating his right thumb against Minnesota.
The undrafted rookie has already shown flashes during his limited NFL action. Daniels completed 19 of 29 preseason passes for 239 yards and one touchdown.
He also added 37 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown during the preseason. Thirty of Tampa Bay’s 33 preseason points came with Daniels leading the offense.
Predicted Stat Line for Jalon Daniels vs Green Bay
– Passing Attempts: 30-35
– Completions: 19-23
– Passing Yards: 210-250
– Passing Touchdowns: 1-2
– Interceptions: 1
– Rushing Attempts: 6-9
– Rushing Yards: 35-55
– Rushing Touchdowns: 0-1
Key Factors Influencing
Daniels enters his first start with very limited regular-season experience. He attempted only three passes after replacing Mayfield against Minnesota.
Daniels completed none of those attempts and threw one interception. He also rushed once for nine yards during his NFL debut.
However, his preseason performance provides a larger sample of what Tampa Bay can expect. Daniels showed accuracy, mobility and the willingness to push the ball downfield.
The Buccaneers specifically noted his ability to extend drives with his legs. He also demonstrated the arm strength to attack defenses vertically.
Green Bay enters the matchup at 1-2 after suffering a 35-14 loss to Atlanta. The Packers will also be preparing for their first extensive look at Daniels as a starter.
That could create opportunities for Daniels if Tampa Bay establishes the running game. Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell can help prevent the Packers from putting the entire game on the rookie.
Daniels’ mobility could also become a major part of Tampa Bay’s offensive approach. His ability to escape pressure gives offensive coordinator Zac Robinson another way to create positive plays.
Final Stat Predictions
– Passing Attempts: 33
– Completions: 21
– Passing Yards: 228
– Passing Touchdowns: 1
– Interceptions: 1
– Rushing Attempts: 8
– Rushing Yards: 47
– Rushing Touchdowns: 1
Daniels should have opportunities to make plays against a Packers defense looking to rebound from its loss to Atlanta.
The biggest question will be how quickly the rookie settles into his first NFL start. Tampa Bay does not need him to play like Mayfield.
Daniels needs to protect the football, extend drives and use his athletic ability when opportunities develop.
Prediction: 21-of-33 passing for 228 yards, one touchdown and one interception, with 47 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.
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