By james art 
It’s Monday, and that means ABC/ESPN Monday Night Football and the Buccaneers will have to try to get back on track at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. The Chiefs are undefeated and never seem to lose on Monday nights.
A major player to watch
Wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins had two catches for 29 yards in last week’s win in Las Vegas, and that was with two days of practice with the Chiefs. The three-time All-Pro figures to have a much bigger role Monday night after having more than a week to learn more from Andy Reid’s extensive playbook. And even if he’s not the focal point of the offense, his mere presence will open things up for Travis Kelce and Co.
Buccaneers player to watch
Running backs Bucky Irving and Rachaad White combined to rush 15 times for 73 yards in last week’s loss to the Falcons. They face one of the best defenses in the NFL this week in Kansas City, and their ability to gain yards on first and second downs will be critical to the Buccaneers’ ability to keep time-consuming drives alive and sustain Patrick Mahomes’ offense and the Chiefs stand by.
The Pirates need to pressure Mahomes early and often. This will limit the damage DeAndre Hopkins and Travis Kelce can do to the Pewter Pirates defense.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Bucs need to hit the rock. After the departure of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, the team must rely on White, Irving and Sean Tucker. This will eventually open up the playthrough. If the Bucs can do that, there is a very good chance they can beat the Chiefs.
This article appeared on Sports Talk Florida and is used with permission.
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