Last Updated on September 29, 2025 7:15 am by Henry
Team Overview
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers return as four-time NFC South champions, finishing 10-7 in 2024. With Baker Mayfield re-signed and Mike Evans continuing as a franchise cornerstone, the Bucs are again division favorites. A healthy Chris Godwin, activated from the PUP list, boosts the offense.
Offensive Line Analysis
The Buccaneers’ O-line remains steady with Tristan Wirfs as the leader. Depth is improved, but durability will be key as the season progresses.
Defensive Line Analysis
Tampa Bay’s defensive front, anchored by Vita Vea, continues to be a strength. The Bucs added rotational pass rushers to keep the unit fresh across 17 games.
Week 1 – vs. Atlanta Falcons
Result & Key Stats
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers edged out a 23–20 win. QB Baker Mayfield threw for 167 yards and three TDs. Rookie WR Emeka Egbuka caught two scores, including the decisive late touchdown.
Key Moments & Injuries
DB Antoine Winfield Jr. sealed the game with a red-zone pass breakup. LB Haason Reddick applied consistent pressure, while KR Kameron Johnson swung momentum with a 54-yard return.
Looking Ahead
Next up: the Houston Texans. Tampa will look to keep Egbuka heavily involved and maintain their defensive pressure edge.
Week 2 – vs. Houston Texans
Result & Key Stats
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fell 27–20 on the road. QB Baker Mayfield passed for 214 yards and 2 TDs, both to rookie WR Emeka Egbuka, who continues to emerge as a reliable weapon.
Key Moments & Injuries
Despite Egbuka’s production, the Bucs’ defense struggled to contain QB C.J. Stroud (Texans). DB Antoine Winfield Jr. forced a fumble, but turnovers on offense proved costly. LB Haason Reddick left briefly with a hand injury but returned.
Looking Ahead
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Jets in Week 3. Improved defensive consistency will be crucial.
Week 3 – vs. New York Jets
Result & Key Stats
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers pulled out a 29–27 thriller at home. QB Baker Mayfield threw for 256 yards and 2 TDs, both to rookie WR Emeka Egbuka.
Key Moments & Injuries
A forced fumble by DB Antoine Winfield Jr. set up the decisive scoring drive. LB Haason Reddick created constant pressure, while WR Mike Evans contributed 6 catches for 82 yards.
Looking Ahead
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a heavyweight test, hosting the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.
Week 4 – vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Result & Key Stats
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their first game of the year, falling 31–25 to Philadelphia (3–1 record). QB Baker Mayfield threw for 245 yards and 2 TDs, while WR Emeka Egbuka added another score.
Key Moments & Injuries
Despite a late rally, Tampa’s defense allowed key conversions to Jalen Hurts. DB Antoine Winfield Jr. forced a fumble, but penalties derailed momentum.
Looking Ahead
The Buccaneers host the Atlanta Falcons in Week 5, setting up a divisional clash between two 2–2 teams.
Odds to Win Division & Super Bowl
- Division Odds: −110 (favorites)
- Super Bowl Odds: Middle tier, around +3000
Predictions
The Buccaneers are the safe pick to win the NFC South again. Expect a 10-7 record and another playoff berth, though Super Bowl