Chicago Bears (0-1) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0)
Chicago Bears vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/17/23 – Chicago Bears (0-1) will meet Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) at Raymond James Stadium for a match that will air live on FOX, offering plenty of opportunity for football predictions as both teams look to either build on recent momentum or alter current standings.
After suffering an underwhelming loss during Week One, the Chicago Bears need a boost on offense. Khalil Herbert only managed 27 yards over 9 attempts while quarterback Justin Fields completed 24 of 37 pass attempts successfully. Darnell Mooney showed promise by catching four passes from Fields totaling 53 yards; one of these touchdown receptions even led directly to one scoring play from Justin Fields.
However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers managed a victory in their debut game while showing areas for improvement. Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 21 out of 34 passes successfully while running back Rachaad White only amassed 39 yards over 17 carries and wide receiver Mike Evans emerged as the most productive contributor with six receptions totalling 66 yards. For more insights and potential betting opportunities, you can also explore some free NFL picks online.
Chicago Bears vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream | NFL Game Pass |
Justin Fields QB vs. Baker Mayfield QB
Justin Fields is undoubtedly the cornerstone upon which the Chicago Bears hope to build their future, especially in the pivotal role of quarterback. His recent game statistics, including 216 passing yards and a 64.9% completion rate, show glimmers of the exceptional talent he possesses. However, Fields has also displayed vulnerabilities, such as taking four sacks and throwing an interception, which highlight the need for better offensive line protection and enhanced decision-making under high-pressure conditions. With a passer rating of 78.2, Fields represents a dynamic but raw talent who not only can make plays through the air but also has the mobility to extend plays on the ground.
On the other side of the field, Baker Mayfield brings a seasoned presence to Tampa Bay’s quarterback position. In contrast to Fields, Mayfield demonstrated his capability as an effective game manager in Week 1, evidenced by his 61% completion rate and a passer rating of 94.4. These numbers indicate not just accuracy but also poise, as he avoided getting sacked more than once. While Mayfield’s yards-per-attempt rate of 5.1 might be considered conservative, it mirrors his playstyle, which focuses on efficiency and ball control rather than high-risk, high-reward plays. In sum, Mayfield’s consistent and cautious approach, backed by considerable experience, provides a counterpoint to Fields’ more dynamic but less predictable style of play.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -149, Total Odds: 41
Tampa Bay is favored with a spread of -2.5 and a Moneyline of -149, with the over/under set at 41 points. Given the varying performance trends between both teams, Tampa Bay appears to be the more reliable wager, with a projected scoreline of 27-20.
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
Recent betting metrics for Chicago are less than promising, with a 1-8 record against the spread in their last nine games and no wins straight up in their last ten. Additionally, the team has underperformed during away games, as indicated by a 1-8 straight-up record in their last nine away games and a 3-9 record against Tampa Bay on the road.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay shows a mixed bag of betting metrics, with a 9-3 straight-up record in their last 12 home games against Chicago, but a 2-7 record against the spread in their last nine matches. Furthermore, 11 of their last 14 games against NFC opponents have gone under, which may influence those considering the over/under.
Chicago Bears vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/17/23 Betting Picks
Given the performance of both quarterbacks and recent betting trends for each team, it appears as if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in a better position to win this game. Their home advantage combined with Baker Mayfield’s steady quarterback play should give them the edge against an underachieving Chicago Bears squad. The top sports betting site will provide bettors with quality wagers; given these factors alone, Tampa Bay appears to be a safer bet.
Free Pick and Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers will win 27-20.