Will the Tampa Bay Buccaneers manage to defeat the Detroit Lions on their turf?
Week 1 of the NFL season brought success to several teams, following months of offseason work and preseason games. While some teams displayed promise and potential, others identified areas for improvement heading into Week 2.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are one of the teams that had a positive start, securing a 37-20 victory over the Washington Commanders. Liam Coen’s debut as the offensive coordinator exceeded most expectations.
Now, as they prepare for Week 2, the Buccaneers face a more challenging test — an away game against the Detroit Lions. Last season, they lost twice to the Lions, including a playoff defeat that allowed Detroit to advance to the NFC Championship game.
The Buccaneers head into this road game as a seven-point favorite, but ESPN NFL analyst Jeremy Fowler has labeled Tampa Bay over Detroit as his upset pick for the week.
“It looks like we’re both going bold here, opting for real upsets instead of close spreads. Baker Mayfield and the Bucs’ offense appeared to be in full control in Week 1,” Fowler noted. “Mayfield was well-protected, the running game was strong, and Mike Evans is still Mike Evans.
Tampa Bay will be motivated by its 0-2 record against Detroit last season, which included a disappointing six-point effort in Week 6. I don’t believe the Lions will underestimate this game — I just expect a spirited back and forth, with the Bucs making one more crucial play late.”
The Lions, as Fowler pointed out, are not likely to underestimate this matchup. The Buccaneers’ offense was genuinely strong in Week 1, and Detroit will surely prepare for that. However, the additions of rookie wide receiver Bucky Irving and running back Jalen McMillan provide new elements to Coen’s offense.
For Week 2, the Buccaneers’ offense will require some support from their injured defense, but the Lions should certainly be wary of an upset.
