In Week 2, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions, both coming off wins, will face each other for the first time since last season’s playoffs.
In the divisional round of the 2023 playoffs, Detroit defeated the Buccaneers by eight points, and current odds suggest a similar outcome on Sunday, with the Lions favored by 7.5 points.
While Detroit needed overtime to defeat the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1, the Bucs secured a comfortable win over the struggling Washington Commanders.
With the latest odds in mind, I’ll forecast the final score for this matchup, which might aid bettors in choosing their side.
The total for this game is set at 51 points, and NFL betting insider Iain MacMillan recommends taking the OVER in his Road to 272 picks, where he forecasts every game for the 2024 season.
Here’s the impact on our final score prediction:
Buccaneers vs. Lions Final Score Prediction
Despite it being against the Washington Commanders, have people already overlooked Tampa Bay’s Week 1 performance? The Buccaneers displayed one of the NFL’s top offenses, with Baker Mayfield passing for four touchdowns and 289 yards in a decisive win.
Earlier this week, I explained why I favor the Bucs in our game preview, and my stance remains unchanged:
Both teams covered the spread in Week 1, but Tampa Bay seems undervalued in the betting market this season.
Despite winning the NFC South last year, Tampa is +7000 to win the Super Bowl, the third-best odds in its division, and isn’t receiving much respect after a strong Week 1 performance.
Detroit’s secondary and pass defense were problematic last season, allowing the second-most passing yards in Week 1. This poses a challenge against a Bucs team eager to throw, especially with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin both available.
Although Detroit covered the spread in Week 1, it required overtime to defeat a Rams team missing Aaron Donald and with Puka Nacua injured in the first half.
With playmakers like Mayfield and a strong offensive showing, the Bucs can compete with anyone. Tampa Bay was 7-2 against the spread as road underdogs in the 2023 season.
While I’m unsure of an outright upset, I believe the Bucs will keep the game within a touchdown.
Final Score Prediction: Lions 31, Bucs 27
