Heading into Sunday’s match, the Denver Broncos (0-2) will be up against the undefeated Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0), where plenty is at stake in this early-season NFL Week 3 encounter. The game will occur at Raymond James Stadium, and the kick-off is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET. The confrontation draws attention to the two teams’ records and highlights the most important game, reshaping Denver’s season. This is absolute football at its most civilized, and for premium picks and predictions, this matchup offers an exciting battle of ideas rather than physicality, one of resilience vs momentum.
Denver Broncos vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/22/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Denver Broncos (0-2) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0)
The Denver Broncos’ running and passing game has not been impressive, with several hurdles in the offensive execution. The leading rusher for the team, Javonte Williams, has only managed to register 2.1 yards per carry, illustrating a weak offensive line and problematic offensive schemes. On the opposite side, there is Josh Reynolds, who has managed to collect 138 yards in two games, therefore showing some spark. Nevertheless, the playmakers were not properly utilized in the last game of the season against Pittsburgh, and the team could not find the end zone.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, on the other hand, implement offense with great strength and mobility. Bucky Irving, the team’s principal ball carrier, averages an impressive 5.3 rushing yards, indicating his running back proficiency. Chris Godwin was nothing short of great, with 200 yards receiving and 2 touchdowns, showing he will be a favorite target. Recent games for the Buccaneers, including a tight game win against Detroit, show they can attack opposing defenses in the air and on the ground, which makes the upcoming game even more interesting for host Denver, who are struggling.
Bo Nix QB vs. Baker Mayfield QB
Bo Nix, the quarterback for Denver, has not been that effective at the beginning of the season, recording only a passer rating of 51, with 4 interceptions and no touchdowns. He has not succumbed to the intensity of the NFL so fast as everybody expected, and this particular game on Sunday might determine how he feels about himself in the future. For his part, Nix will try to recover from an apprehensive Tampa Bay defense and minimize the errors that he commits, if any, taking advantage of lapses in the takeaway defense.
On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has started his season with impressive statistics, recording a passer rating of 129.1, 5 touchdown passes, and 474 passing yards. He has been accurate in his passes (73.5 percent completion rate), suggesting he is well acquainted with the offensive scheme and can make key plays. Mayfield’s experience and judgment will be valuable assets for exploiting Denver’s defense, which has been vulnerable in previous matches.
The showdown between the quarterbacks is set to be one of the highlights of this game, as Nix is determined to get the better of his older, more established, and presently more successful opponent, Mayfield. The competition between these two on the field may very well determine the speed and result of the fight.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3.5 (-120), Total Odds: 42.5
The betting odds favor the Buccaneers with a -3.5 point spread, reflecting their strong start to the season and home-field advantage. The total set at 42.5 points suggests expectations of a moderately scoring game, considering the defensive capabilities of both teams.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
Denver’s recent trends do not inspire much confidence for bettors, with a 2-4 record against the spread (ATS) in their last six games and a troubling 1-5 straight up (SU) in their recent outings. Their road game woes, standing at 4-16 SU in their last 20 away games, further complicate their prospects for an upset.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay has proven reliable for bettors, going 4-1 ATS in their last five games and an impressive 8-2 SU in their last ten overall. At home, their record shines brighter with a 5-1 SU in their last six, making them formidable opponents at Raymond James Stadium.
Denver Broncos vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/22/24 Betting Picks
When Denver takes the field against Tampa Bay, it also sheds light on where sharp money will likely go. The Buccaneers’ history and the Broncos’ current struggles, or lack thereof, allow us to conclude that Tampa Bay will cover the spread. Thanks to their excellent defense and proper offense, it is a good pick for both them and the bettors, especially more at home than away.
This 3-week match of the season is expected to bring down the action on the betters, with Tampa Bay covering the -3.5 spread. Given the frequency of scores above, this match or under the point total of 42.5 might be a good investment. Chris Godwin over or underground lines could also be favorable regarding prop bets. Check out our free NFL Week 3 tips for more insights and opportunities.