Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/8/24 – With the beginning of another action-packed season in the NFL, this time, the Washington Commanders will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1. The team’s growth has shown in the first pre-season game, and they can only be better as they finally kick off the regular season. Both stretches have strong ambitions of starting the league proper with a bang, having done preseason differently. The focus for Washington is improving on its tremendous inconsistencies, while Tampa Bay is pleased to continue improving its tough preseason performance. This is one of the week’s most premium matchup picks scheduled for throwing Sunday.
Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/8/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Washington Commanders (1-2 Preseason) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1 Preseason)
The Washington Commanders take the field as a group with evident problems in the execution of offensive plays as shown by the losses in preseason. But still, there were some happy moments in the rushing and receiving departments. Running back Michael Wiley, who has a total of 2 touchdowns with an average of 3.9 yards per carry, is the ray of sunshine when it comes to the defense of The Commanders. And on the receiving end, Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint has emerged as t the key man, gaining 77 yards in 3 games. As Washington prepares for this encounter, much focus will be on improving their offensive cohesion, particularly ahead of the Rams vs. Lions faceoff, which could offer strategic insights into overcoming stout defenses.
On the other hand, the Buccaneers have been more leveled as led by their talented quarterback Kyle Trask. Being in a fragile injury conscious position, Kyle Trask leads Tampa offense this season, having started the preseason completing 65.1 percent of his passing attempts in three touchdowns. Among the notable names in the match were running back Sean Tucker and receiver Cody Thompson who torched the ground impressively, averaging in a 5.7 gain per touchdown. Tampa’s receiving game, buoyed by Thompson’s 137 yards and a touchdown, will be instrumental as they exploit Washington’s defensive frailties, particularly with the Jets and 49ers matchup in mind, providing a blueprint for effective air attacks.
Jeff Driskel QB vs. Kyle Trask QB
Jeff Driskel, who was handed the reins in Washington, had his critics after the preseason, commencing with paltry stats in yards and a big fat zero in TD passes. He has to schedule the games and avoid losable mistakes, particularly when forwarding Tampa Bay’s overpowering defense. His biggest weakness, though, would be consistent in his elite performance level as the stakes were no ordinary games utilizing his athleticism and decisiveness to keep the Commanders in contention.
Kyle Trask, for his part, has made every opportunity presented to him during the preseason count and has begun to show the characteristics of an elite NFL quarterback. Unlike Driskel, who is still relatively raw in terms of development, Trask is primed to lead his teammates on the field as a quarterback with a higher passer rating and more extra points thrown as a result of touchdown receptions.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -4.5 -104, Total Odds: 40.5
The Buccaneers enter as favorites, reflecting their solid preseason and the Commanders’ struggles. The over/under set at 40.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities.
Washington Commanders Betting Trends
Washington’s betting trends do not favor them, with a 1-6 record against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 games. Moreover, their struggle to win outright in recent games (0-8 SU) highlights the challenges they face. However, their historical performance against Tampa Bay (5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings) provides a glimmer of hope for bettors leaning towards an upset or a closer game than the odds suggest.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay’s recent betting trends reflect their resilience and efficiency, boasting a 5-2 ATS record in their last 7 games. The consistency at home, where the total has gone UNDER in 7 of their last 8 games, suggests their ability to control the pace and dynamics of the game, making them a safer bet in this matchup.
Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Within the current context and examination of these parameters, it can be concluded that the Buccaneers will cover the spread as they now feature a more reliable and productive offense with Kyle Trask in control. Head coach Turner will be looking for a much better display from Jeff Driskel and his offensive line if they are to pull off an upset. In that regard, looking at the total points to go over might serve the bettors quite well, as both teams possess such offensive capabilities that could lead to a picture of many moving scores.
To end on a valuation aspect, Tampa Bay will likely win this match and score slightly more than that mark, making a case for the over. However, without making any promises, NFL Week 1 Free Picks have indicated that although the spread is feasible, there are better odds on the Tampa Bay team, given their home base and preseason performances.