Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Odds

Team Overview

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the 2024/2025 NFL season with cautious optimism following a 9-8 finish last year that saw them win the NFC South and make a playoff appearance. Under head coach Todd Bowles, the Buccaneers are looking to build on their success and remain competitive in a division that is widely considered up for grabs. With Baker Mayfield returning as the starting quarterback, the team aims to leverage a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent to secure another postseason berth.

Offensive Line Analysis

The Buccaneers have embarked on a significant overhaul of their offensive line, a crucial area for improvement given their struggles in the run game last season. The line has been restructured with Tristan Wirfs moving from right tackle to left tackle, and the addition of Ben Bredeson and Sua Opeta to strengthen the interior. First-round pick Graham Barton is expected to start at center, bringing versatility and athleticism that could help address the team’s run-blocking deficiencies. This revamped line is essential for providing better protection for Baker Mayfield and creating opportunities for the ground game, which ranked among the league’s lowest last year.

Defensive Line Analysis

Defensively, the Buccaneers’ line revolves around the formidable presence of Vita Vea in the middle. Despite his consistent performance, the line overall struggled with depth and consistency. Young players like Logan Hall and Calijah Kancey are expected to step up and provide additional pass-rushing capabilities. Hall, in particular, will need to improve on his run defense to complement Vea’s strengths. The Buccaneers have also added Jordan Whitehead to bolster their secondary, aiming to improve their coverage, which turned around significantly in the latter part of last season.

Here is a summary of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Week 1 game against the Minnesota Vikings:

2024 NFL Season

Week 8 – Vs Atlanta Falcons

Final score: Atlanta Falcons 31, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26

• Key Players
  • Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers QB): Engaged in a first-half shootout, but struggled with turnovers, throwing two interceptions.
  • Cade Otton (Buccaneers TE): Led the team with 9 receptions for 81 yards and scored two touchdowns, including a late score to keep the game close.
  • Kirk Cousins (Falcons QB): Threw multiple touchdown passes, including two to Kyle Pitts.
  • Jessie Bates III (Falcons S): Made game-changing plays with a forced fumble, an interception, and three stops.
• Game Dynamics
  • The first half was an offensive showcase, with Mayfield and Cousins combining for five touchdown passes. Scoring slowed in the second half, but the game remained exciting with turnovers and big plays. The Falcons maintained their lead despite a late Buccaneers push
• Game Statistics
  • Total net yards: Falcons 364, Buccaneers 432
  • Third-down efficiency: Falcons 58%, Buccaneers 64%
  • Red-zone efficiency: Both teams 100%2
• Challenges
  • The Buccaneers’ defense struggled to contain Atlanta’s offense, giving up big plays in key moments.
  • Tampa Bay’s secondary had difficulties, with rookie cornerback Funderburk eventually being benched after struggling in coverage.
• Context
  • This victory gives the Falcons a season sweep over the Buccaneers and strengthens their lead in the NFC South. For Tampa Bay, it marks their third consecutive loss, dropping their record to 4-4 and complicating their playoff aspirations
• Reaction
  • Buccaneers fans are concerned about the team’s defensive issues and Mayfield’s recent turnover problems. However, there’s optimism about the offense’s ability to perform without key receivers and praise for Cade Otton’s breakout performance. Falcons supporters are celebrating the win and Jessie Bates III’s impact, which continues to make him look like one of the most cost-effective signings in recent memory

Week 7 – Vs Baltimore Ravens

Final Score: Baltimore Ravens 41, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31

• Key Players
  • Lamar Jackson (Ravens QB): Completed 17 of 22 passes for 281 yards and five touchdowns, also rushing for 52 yards.
  • Derrick Henry (Ravens RB): Amassed 169 yards on 15 carries, including an 81-yard run in the third quarter.
  • Rashod Bateman (Ravens WR): Caught four passes for 121 yards.
  • Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers QB): Threw two interceptions but managed to keep the game competitive.
  • Mike Evans (Buccaneers WR): Caught a 25-yard touchdown pass for his 100th career touchdown before leaving with a hamstring injury.
• Game Dynamics
  • The Buccaneers started strong, leading by 10 points at the end of the first quarter. However, the Ravens mounted an impressive comeback, scoring 34 consecutive points. Jackson’s exceptional performance, coupled with Henry’s powerful running game, overwhelmed the Buccaneers’ defense.
• Game Statistics
  • Ravens’ Passing Yards: 281
  • Ravens’ Rushing Yards: 221+ (including Henry’s 169)
  • Buccaneers’ Offensive Output: Not specified in the search results
• Challenges
  • The Buccaneers faced significant injury setbacks, losing Mike Evans to a hamstring injury and Chris Godwin to a potentially dislocated ankle. The Ravens’ defense, particularly Marlon Humphrey with two interceptions, posed constant challenges for Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense.
• Context
  • This game showcased Lamar Jackson’s continued dominance, marking his fifth career game with at least five touchdown passes and no interceptions, the most in the NFL since his debut in 2018.
• Reaction
  • Ravens head coach John Harbaugh praised Jackson’s performance, emphasizing their “one week at a time” approach. The Buccaneers’ coaching staff, including head coach Todd Bowles, expressed concern over the injuries to key players, which could impact their strategy in upcoming games.

Week 6 – Vs. New Orleans Saints

Final Score: New Orleans Saints 27, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 51

• Key Players
  • Baker Mayfield: The Buccaneers quarterback had an outstanding performance, throwing for 312 yards and three touchdowns. Mayfield’s ability to read the Saints’ defense and make quick, accurate decisions was crucial to the Buccaneers’ offensive success.
  • Chris Godwin: Godwin was Mayfield’s favorite target, hauling in 8 receptions for 124 yards and a touchdown. His route-running and ability to create separation were on full display.
  • Antoine Winfield Jr.: The Buccaneers’ safety made a game-changing play with a fumble return for a touchdown, swinging momentum firmly in Tampa Bay’s favor.
• Game Dynamics
  • The Buccaneers’ offense was firing on all cylinders, averaging an impressive 8.1 yards per play and converting 60% of their third downs. Their balanced attack kept the Saints’ defense off-balance throughout the game, with both the passing and rushing games finding success.
  • Defensively, Tampa Bay applied consistent pressure on Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler, forcing him into multiple turnovers. The Buccaneers’ ability to capitalize on these mistakes was a key factor in building their lead.
• Key Moments
  • Early Momentum Shift: Despite an early interception by Mayfield, the Buccaneers’ defense quickly forced a turnover, allowing them to regain control of the game.
  • Winfield’s Defensive Score: Antoine Winfield Jr.’s fumble return for a touchdown in the third quarter was a pivotal moment, extending the Buccaneers’ lead and demoralizing the Saints.
  • Second Half Dominance: The Buccaneers scored on seven consecutive possessions in the second half, effectively putting the game out of reach for the Saints.
• Overall Performance
  • This was a complete team victory that showcased the Buccaneers’ potential as a contender in the NFC South. Their offense amassed 582 total yards, with Mayfield distributing the ball effectively to multiple receivers. The ground game, led by Sean Tucker and Bucky Irving, provided balance and kept the Saints’ defense honest.
  • Defensively, the Buccaneers forced multiple turnovers and consistently pressured Rattler, limiting the Saints to just 226 total yards. Their special teams unit also contributed with solid coverage and return play.
  • The 51-27 victory improved the Buccaneers’ record to 3-3 and put them in a strong position in the division race. As they look ahead to next week’s matchup, the Buccaneers will aim to build on this momentum and continue their push for the playoffs.

Week 5 – Vs. Atlanta Falcons

Final Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30, Atlanta Falcons 36

• Key Players
  • Kirk Cousins: The Falcons quarterback had a career-defining performance, throwing for an astounding 509 yards and four touchdowns.
  • Drake London: The Falcons wide receiver was Cousins’ primary target, hauling in 12 catches for 154 yards and a touchdown.
  • Baker Mayfield: The Buccaneers quarterback had a solid outing, throwing three touchdown passes, including two to Mike Evans.
  • Mike Evans: The veteran Buccaneers receiver caught two touchdown passes and was a constant threat, especially in the first half
• Game Dynamics
  • The game was a high-scoring affair with both offenses dominating. The first half alone saw the teams combine for 488 yards and 28 first downs, with the Buccaneers leading 24-17 at halftime. The Falcons’ defense improved in the second half, limiting the Buccaneers to just six points in the third and fourth quarters combined
  • The Falcons’ passing attack was the key to their success, with Cousins connecting with multiple receivers for big plays. The Buccaneers’ offense was more balanced, with Mayfield’s passing complemented by a strong running game that totaled 160 yards
• Key Moments
  • Fourth Quarter Comeback: The Falcons tied the game with a gutsy fourth-down call, resulting in a touchdown pass from Cousins to Darnell Mooney.
  • Crucial Field Goal: Chase McLaughlin‘s 53-yard field goal put the Buccaneers ahead 30-27 with 10:23 remaining in the fourth quarter.
• Overall Performance
  • Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons showed incredible resilience and offensive firepower. Cousins’ record-breaking performance and the team’s ability to execute in crucial moments were key factors in their victory. However, their running game struggled, managing only 73 yards on 18 carries
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Despite a strong first half and Mayfield’s three touchdown passes, the Buccaneers couldn’t maintain their lead. Their offense was effective, particularly in the running game, but their defense struggled to contain the Falcons’ passing attack, especially in the fourth quarter and overtime
  • The final score of 36-30 in favor of the Falcons reflects the back-and-forth nature of the game and the offensive dominance displayed by both teams. This victory improved the Falcons’ record to 3-2, while the Buccaneers fell to 2-3 in the competitive NFC South division.

Week 4 – vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Final Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 33, Philadelphia Eagles 16.

• Key Players:
  • Baker Mayfield was efficient, completing 30 of 47 passes for 347 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.
  • Mike Evans had a strong performance, leading the receivers with eight catches for 94 yards and a touchdown.
  • Lavonte David dominated defensively, recording two sacks and two tackles for loss.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Buccaneers played a balanced game, with strong performances in both the passing and rushing attacks. The offensive line held up well, only allowing two sacks on Mayfield, while the defense sacked the Eagles’ quarterback six times. Tampa Bay controlled the game with 445 total yards compared to Philadelphia’s 227.
• Key Moments:
  • Trey Palmer caught a 26-yard touchdown pass, adding to Tampa Bay’s lead in the second half.
  • Lavonte David and Yaya Diaby both made significant defensive plays, contributing to the Buccaneers’ six total sacks.
• Overall Performance:
  • The Buccaneers dominated both offensively and defensively, with Mayfield spreading the ball effectively and the defense putting constant pressure on the Eagles. Tampa Bay also won the time of possession battle, holding the ball for over 36 minutes, and remained efficient on third downs, converting 46% of their attempts. This win improved the Buccaneers’ record to 3-1 for the season.

Week 3 – vs. Denver Broncos

Final Score: Denver Broncos 26, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7.

• Key Players:
  • Baker Mayfield completed 25 of 33 passes for 163 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
  • Chris Godwin led the receivers with six catches for 53 yards and the Buccaneers’ only touchdown.
• Game Dynamics:
  • Tampa Bay’s offense struggled throughout the game, primarily due to their inability to protect Mayfield, who was sacked seven times. Their rushing attack was limited, with Bucky Irving posting 70 yards on nine carries. The Buccaneers’ defense couldn’t stop Denver’s offense, allowing 352 total yards, 136 of which came on the ground.
• Key Moments:
  • Zyon McCollum and Tykee Smith contributed with solid defensive plays, but the Buccaneers couldn’t capitalize on those opportunities.
  • Cade Otton fumbled, costing the team valuable momentum, and the Buccaneers threw an interception that stopped another potential scoring drive.
• Overall Performance:
  • Tampa Bay’s offensive line struggled, leading to seven sacks, while the team only managed 223 total yards. Their third-down efficiency was just 27%, and despite a solid defensive effort, they couldn’t keep up with the Broncos’ offensive firepower. The loss dropped the Buccaneers to 2-1 for the season.

Week 2 – vs. Detroit Lions

• Final Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20, Detroit Lions 16.
• Key Players:
  • Chris Godwin was the standout receiver for the Buccaneers on Sunday, making an impressive seven catches for 117 yards, including a touchdown.
  • Baker Mayfield consistently delivered crucial throws, leading the Buccaneers on a vital touchdown drive after the Lions had taken the lead.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have faced numerous injuries, resulting in significant changes throughout their roster.
  • The Buccaneers are 2-0 for the fourth consecutive season and will aim for their first 3-0 start since 2005 
• Key Moments:
  • Zyon McCollum secured his first career interception on Detroit’s opening drive. McCollum covered the Lions’ outside receivers with four passes defended and contributed significantly in run support, finishing with six solo tackles.
  • Chase McLaughlin provided crucial support for the team with his first two kicks, including a 55-yard field goal.
• Overall Performance:
  • The Tampa Bay Buccaneers delivered a strong performance against the Detroit Lions, in a closely contested game.
  • The Bucs’ defense held Detroit to just one touchdown and limited their scoring opportunities, forcing them to settle for field goals until late in the game.

Week 1 – vs. Washington Commanders

• Final Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 37, Washington Commanders 20.
• Key Players:
  • Baker Mayfield: Threw for 289 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Buccaneers’ offense.
  • Mike Evans: Was a key target for Mayfield, contributing significantly to the scoring.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Buccaneers scored on their first five possessions, establishing a strong lead early in the game.
  • Tampa Bay’s offense executed 60 plays, gaining a total of 350 net yards.
  • The Buccaneers’ defense effectively contained the Commanders, allowing 290 net yards.
• Key Moments:
  • The Buccaneers’ ability to score consistently throughout the game was pivotal in securing the win.
  • The Commanders struggled to keep up with Tampa Bay’s offensive pace and efficiency.
• Overall Performance:
  • Tampa Bay demonstrated a balanced and effective offensive strategy, complemented by a solid defensive effort.
  • The Buccaneers’ victory showcased their potential for the season, with Mayfield’s performance highlighting his role as a leader on the field.

Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl

– Odds to Win NFC South: +290, indicating they are competitive but not the favorites in the division.

– Odds to Win Super Bowl: +6500, suggesting a 1.5% chance, placing them as long shots for the championship.

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2024 Season Predictions

– Overall Record: The Buccaneers are projected to finish with a 7-10 record, reflecting the challenges they face with a tough schedule and the need for consistency.

– Playoff Chances: With odds of +142 to make the playoffs, the Buccaneers have a challenging path to postseason contention, requiring strong performances from key players.

– Super Bowl Chances: Winning the Super Bowl is unlikely this season, given their long odds and the need for substantial improvements across the roster.

In summary, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the 2024/2025 season with a focus on maintaining competitiveness in the NFC South. The team’s success will largely depend on the performance of Baker Mayfield and the effectiveness of their restructured offensive and defensive lines. While immediate Super Bowl contention may be challenging, the Buccaneers are poised to compete for a playoff spot as they continue to develop their roster.