Nate Duffett
May 17, 2024, at 11:47 AM ET
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced a challenging offseason, expecting a possible decline after their 2023 playoff run, given the potential departures of key players. However, stars like Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, and Antoine Winfield Jr. have all returned, reigniting hopes for another strong season. Here, we take a detailed look at the Buccaneers’ 2024 schedule, predicting their outcomes for each game.
Week 1 vs. Washington Commanders
The Buccaneers kick off their season against the Washington Commanders, featuring Jayden Daniels in his NFL debut. Tampa Bay’s experienced defense is likely to capitalize on Daniels’ inexperience, leading to a promising start for the Bucs.
Prediction: WIN
Week 2 @ Detroit Lions
Traveling to face last season’s NFC runner-ups, the Lions, poses a significant challenge. Detroit’s youthful squad, hungry for a Super Bowl run, is expected to outmatch the Buccaneers in this early road game.
**Prediction: LOSS**
**Week 3 vs. Denver Broncos**
Back at home, the Buccaneers face the Broncos, whose quarterback situation remains uncertain. Whether it’s Bo Nix, Zach Wilson, or Jarrett Stidham under center, Tampa Bay’s defense should dominate, securing another home victory.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 4 vs. Philadelphia Eagles**
The Buccaneers previously dominated the Eagles in the Wild Card Round, and with Philadelphia’s key retirements impacting their lines, Tampa Bay has a strong chance to repeat their success.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 5 @ Atlanta Falcons (Thursday Night Football)**
A short week leads the Buccaneers to a divisional clash with the Falcons. Given the competitive nature of NFC South matchups, a split in the series is likely, with Tampa Bay dropping this away game.
**Prediction: LOSS**
**Week 6 @ New Orleans Saints**
Another divisional road game follows. Historically, the Bucs have had success against the Saints, and despite Baker Mayfield’s recent tenure, Tampa Bay should secure a win against a declining New Orleans team.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 7 vs. Baltimore Ravens (Monday Night Football)**
Facing Lamar Jackson and the Ravens after two grueling divisional games might be too much for the Buccaneers, leading to a tough home loss.
**Prediction: LOSS**
**Week 8 vs. Atlanta Falcons**
Tampa Bay gets another shot at the Falcons, this time at home. To maintain their playoff hopes, securing this win is crucial.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 9 @ Kansas City Chiefs (Monday Night Football)**
A second Monday Night Football game sees the Buccaneers at Arrowhead Stadium against the reigning Super Bowl champions. This formidable matchup likely results in another loss for Tampa Bay.
**Prediction: LOSS**
**Week 10 vs. San Francisco 49ers**
Facing one of the NFC’s top contenders, the 49ers, proves too challenging for the Buccaneers, reinforcing the gap between Tampa Bay and the league’s elite teams.
**Prediction: LOSS**
**Week 11: BYE**
**Week 12 @ New York Giants**
Post-bye week, the Buccaneers face a rebuilding Giants team. This matchup should provide a much-needed win.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 13 @ Carolina Panthers**
In another road divisional game, Tampa Bay faces Bryce Young and the Panthers. Despite Carolina’s hopes for Young’s development, the Buccaneers are favored to win.
**Prediction: WIN**
**Week 14 vs. Las Vegas Raiders**
This could be a trap game for the Buccaneers, but with a tough schedule ahead, securing a win here is vital.
Prediction: WIN
Week 15 @ Los Angeles Chargers
Against Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers, the Buccaneers might struggle, especially with critical divisional games looming.
Prediction: LOSS
Week 16 @ Dallas Cowboys (Sunday Night Football)
Primetime in Dallas usually spells trouble for visiting teams. The Buccaneers are likely to suffer another high-profile loss.
Prediction: LOSS
Week 17 vs. Carolina Panthers
Returning home for the final stretch, the Buccaneers face the Panthers again. This time, they should secure a victory to bolster their playoff chances.
Prediction: WIN
Week 18 vs. New Orleans Saints
The final game of the season could be decisive for playoff seeding. Historically, the Saints have played spoiler, and this match might continue that trend.
Prediction: LOSS
Final Record: 9-8
Nate Duffett is a sports writer for ClutchPoints with a deep passion for Boston sports. He covers various leagues including the NHL, MLB, NBA, NFL, and college sports, bringing a comprehensive perspective to his analyses.