New England Patriots: Staff Predictions Week Three Vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Aug 16, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) makes a pass during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Two games: two wins.  Many predicted that start for the New England Patriots in 2013, but no one predicted that the offense would struggle, injuries would ravage their explosiveness, and the defense would be forced to carry the team.  Certainly, the Bills defensive coordinator Mike Pettine (formerly the New York Jets defensive coordinator) and New York Jets head coach/defensive guru Rex Ryan have multiple games where they experienced success and their defensive game plans frustrate quarterback Tom Brady.

So now Tampa Bay rolls into New England with a young, hungry team desperate for a victory after two tough losses to start the season.  Tampa Bay had the Jets on the ropes when a silly penalty gave away the victory. Then, last week, the defense shut down the rejuvenated New Orleans offense and quarterback Drew Brees, but again just fell short on the scoreboard despite the defense playing well enough to win for the second week in a row.  With the combination of a ticked-off Darrelle Revis, two straight solid defensive performances, and desperation for a win, the Patriots have a tough game this week.

So what does week three of the 2013 NFL season against their preseason practice partner, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hold for the New England Patriots? The MusketFire.com staff has their analysis and predictions for the matchup right here!