The'Washington Commanders'and'Tampa Bay Buccaneers'open their seasons Sunday. Kickoff from Raymond James Stadium is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we look at'Commanders vs. Buccaneers odds'from'BetMGM Sportsbook'before making our expert'NFL picks and predictions'later in the week.
The Commanders made a splash by selecting LSU QB Jayden Daniels 2nd overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Daniels shined in the preseason, completing 12 of 15 passes with no turnovers. He'll rely on WR Terry McLaurin, who's topped 1,000 receiving yards in every season except his rookie year. The team also added veteran TE Zach Ertz, though his impact at 33 is uncertain. RBs Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler will split carries in the backfield. On defense, DT Jonathan Allen anchors the line, and new addition LB Bobby Wagner brings veteran leadership to the unit.
The Buccaneers know that in a weak NFC South, a solid performance could secure a playoff spot. QB Baker Mayfield thrived in his first season in Tampa, setting career highs in completions, yards, and touchdowns. He'll lean on WR Mike Evans, who's topped 1,000 yards every year since 2014, and WR Chris Godwin, who's done so in 4 of the last 5 seasons. On defense, LB Lavonte David and CB Antoine Winfield Jr. lead the way, while LB Yaya Diaby (7.5 sacks in 2023) anchors the pass rush.
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