Chicago Bears at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Pick
On Sunday, the Chicago Bears are set to hit the road to face off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a clash between two NFC teams.
The Bears enter this matchup following a recent defeat at their home turf by the Green Bay Packers, where they conceded a total of 38 points. Last season, Chicago struggled, managing to secure only three victories.
In contrast, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers started the season with a significant away victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Week One. The Buccaneers successfully campaigned last year, winning eight regular-season games and making it to the postseason.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers come into the game as the favorite over the Chicago Bears. The Buccaneers are -3, while the total started at 41.5.
High Expectations for Chicago Squashed a Bit in Week One
Entering the 2023 season, the Chicago Bears held high expectations, especially with a promising scenario: facing their arch-nemesis at home and the absence of Aaron Rodgers. However, reality hit hard, as they now have a 0-1 record for the season.
Even more concerning is their upcoming Week 3 clash in Kansas City, where another loss in Tampa Bay could potentially bury them in a 0-3 predicament.
In their recent game against the Green Bay Packers, the Bears witnessed Packers’ starting quarterback Jordan Love excel, throwing three touchdown passes and accumulating 245 yards.
The Chicago defense struggled, allowing Aaron Jones to amass over 120 yards and two touchdowns. On the offensive front, Justin Fields managed 216 yards, one touchdown, and an interception on a 24-of-37 performance.
Darnell Mooney was the recipient of a touchdown pass for Chicago, and it’s anticipated that he’ll play a crucial role in the passing game as they prepare for their upcoming matchup.
Tampa Loving Underdog Role
Contrary to expectations, many pundits bet against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, starkly contrasting the Chicago Bears’ outlook. The Buccaneers had bid farewell to their legendary quarterback, Tom Brady, leaving the reins in the hands of Baker Mayfield, who had been out of the starting role for some time.
Yet, Mayfield’s return to the helm proved outstanding, as he amassed 173 passing yards and delivered two touchdowns. Mike Evans emerged as his primary target, securing six receptions, 66 yards, and a touchdown.
Tampa Bay also showcased their defensive prowess, compelling the Minnesota Vikings into committing three turnovers. Kirk Cousins threw an interception and lost possession twice through fumbles.
Looking ahead, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ next challenge on the schedule is a Monday Night Football showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Buccaneers Top Bears on Sunday
It’s a surprise it’s this way after Week one, but the advantage in this matchup is expected to lean heavily towards the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Baker Mayfield is poised to assert himself as a capable quarterback for the Buccaneers. If he can effectively deploy his offensive weapons in open field, the Chicago Bears may find it challenging to match their pace.
While the narrative surrounding Justin Fields is compelling, his struggles in Game One will likely persist into Week Two of the season. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3 is the way to make here. Consider the OVER as well.
