Denver Broncos (0-2) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0)
As the NFL season heats up, the Denver Broncos, desperate for a win at 0-2, travel to sunny Florida to face the undefeated Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a pivotal Week 3 showdown. Set for Sunday at the famed Raymond James Stadium, and broadcast live on FOX at 1:00 PM ET, this matchup presents a contrasting tale of two teams headed in seemingly opposite directions. For those hunting for NFL free picks, this game offers a fascinating study of resilience versus momentum.
Particularly this season, the Broncos’ offense has gotten off to a somewhat sluggish start. Quarterback Bo Nix has an apparent vulnerability in the pocket, with a completion percentage of just 59.7 and four interceptions to no touchdowns, showing how the passing game is virtually nonexistent. However, the lone wide receiver with flashing potential is Josh Reynolds, who has accumulated 138 receiving yards in two games. Running back Javonte Williams has not been able to make good and has only registered 40 yards from 19 carries, which reflects a rather feeble offensive engine for Denver at the moment.
On the contrary, the Buccaneers are also on top of their game, thanks partly to Baker Mayfield’s superb performance, where he has thrown for 474 yards and a passer rating of 129.1, with an impressive completion rate of 73.5%. In particular, his chemistry with wide receiver Chris Godwin has been one of the most impressive, pulling two hundred receiving yards and two touchdown passes thrown in the air. Bucky Irving counters with 84 rushing yards also, who is dangerous every time he gets the ball with his speed and quickness.
Denver Broncos vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Bo Nix QB vs. Baker Mayfield QB
Bo Nix, who plays for Denver’s starting quarterback, has had a rough first half of the season. With less than 60% completion and four interceptions without a touchdown, Nix has been the biggest headache for the Broncos. His ability to handle pressure along with the ability to find the likes of Josh Reynolds can help change the story for the Broncs.
On the flip side, Baker Mayfield of Tampa Bay has taken charge with a notable performance of a 73.5% completion rate. Mayfield’s sharpness and drop control contributed to the Buccaneers offense which proved to be active in the early days of the season. Continuing this efficiency will be critical for Tampa Bay as they try to extend the streak.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -170, Total Odds: 42.5
The betting line reflects Tampa Bay’s strong start and Denver’s struggles, with the Buccaneers favored at -3.5 and a moneyline of -170. The total set at 42.5 suggests expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair, factoring in Tampa’s offensive firepower and Denver’s potential desperation to push the pace.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos’ recent record of 2-4 against the spread (ATS) and 1-5 straight up (SU) in their last six games paints a grim picture, exacerbated by a 4-16 SU record in their last 20 road games. However, they are 4-1 SU in their last five encounters with Tampa Bay, a historical edge they’ll hope to extend.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay’s betting trends are robust, with a 4-1 ATS record in their last five games and an 8-2 SU record in their last ten games. The under has hit in five of their last six matchups against Denver, pointing towards a strong defensive showing in recent meetings.
Denver Broncos vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9/22/24 Betting Picks
Looking at the data and trends, Tampa Bay stands out as the stronger team in both form and firepower. The Buccaneers’ balanced attack should continue to thrive against a Denver team still finding its footing. Expect Tampa to exploit Denver’s defensive lapses and control the tempo at home.
For bettors, the Buccaneers are likely the safer bet, especially considering Denver’s struggles on the road. The over on 42.5 could tempt, given Tampa’s offensive output, but Denver’s scoring woes might tilt it towards the under. In terms of prop bets, consider targeting Chris Godwin for anytime touchdown scorer, given his hot start and Mayfield’s reliance on his top receiver. For those leveraging top bookie software, this game presents a compelling case for multiple betting angles based on current team dynamics and historical performances.
