Two teams trending in opposite directions match up when the unbeaten Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the winless Denver Broncos. Tampa Bay is pushing for another NFC South crown behind a new-look offense and strong start from quarterback Baker Mayfield. On the opposite end of the spectrum is struggling rookie QB Bo Nix. The Buccaneers are favored by a touchdown in this one.
Tampa Bay opened eyes with a comeback road victory over Detroit in Week 2. Mayfield’s 11-yard touchdown run in the final minute was a showcase moment after a steady performance. The connection between wide receiver Chris Godwin and Mayfield in new offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s gameplan is apparent. Godwin has 200 yards and two TDs already in the new year — hauling in 15 of 16 targets from Mayfield.
Even with a struggling run game and injury to lead back Rachaad White, Mike Evans and Godwin remain a dangerous duo. The Bucs are fourth in scoring offense and Mayfield is second in QB rating so far.
An ugly Week 2 loss against Pittsburgh saw Denver go without a touchdown. Nix has four interceptions and zero TD passes with little help coming from Broncos running backs early this season. Denver is 30th in scoring offense and 29th in total yards per game with limited star power to help the struggling Nix.
Against a revamped Tampa Bay secondary that held Detroit to only one touchdown in seven red zone appearances, Denver needs to finish drives and limit turnovers. Pressuring the quarterback is an early weakness for Tampa Bay with injuries to Calijah Kancey and Vita Vea. But Broncos veteran tackle Mike McGlinchey (MCL sprain) is out, providing even more questions for Denver.
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Denver Broncos at Tampa Bay Buccaneers odds
How to watch Broncos vs. Buccaneers
- Venue: Raymond James Stadium — Tampa
- Time:Â 1 p.m. ET, Sunday
- TV:Â FOX
- Streaming: Fubo (try for free)
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(Photo of Baker Mayfield: Nic Antaya / Getty Images)
