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Two B1G rookies will be starters for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1
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The transition from the college game to the professional level seems to be going pretty smooth for two former B1G stars.
On Monday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced their depth chart for Week 1 and former Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs and former Minnesota safety Antoine Winfield Jr. have both carved out starting roles for themselves. Both were selected in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Bucs.
Wirfs was Tampa Bay’s first-round draft selection, picked No. 13 overall. He was a first-team All-B1G selection and the league’s Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2019, helping lead the Hawkeyes to a 10-3 season.
In his three seasons with Iowa, Wirfs made 33 career starts.
Winfield was a second-round pick for the Bucs, picked with the 45th selection overall. The safety enjoyed a strong final season with the Gophers, earning B1G Defensive Back of the Year honors and was a unanimous All-American choice at the end of 2019.
Winfield did it all for Minnesota defensively last season, finishing the year with 83 tackles, 7 interceptions, 3 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. The Gophers were 11-2.
Tampa Bay is scheduled to open the season on Sunday, Sept. 13 against New Orleans. Kickoff is set for 4:25 p.m. ET.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB