Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Philadelphia Eagles – Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips 15/01/2024

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium for the National Football League Wild Card Round on Monday, January 15th at 10:15 pm.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a season that defied expectations. Many expected the team to fail, perhaps due to the perceived weaker competitiveness in the NFC South, but the Buccaneers managed to win the division and secure a spot in the playoffs.

In the last game against the Carolina Panthers, the Buccaneers’ offense scored just nine points, but the defense stood out by not allowing any points. Baker Mayfield completed 20 of 32 passes for 137 yards, and the defense will be a crucial element in the matchup against the Eagles.

The Buccaneers have shown strength, especially as underdogs. It has won each of its last three games in that capacity, and although it has failed to cover the spread in its last five home games against NFC opponents, the team has demonstrated resilience.

The Buccaneers’ defense has been particularly effective, with the team allowing an average of 19.1 points per game while scoring an average of 20.5 points.

Philadelphia Eagles

On the other hand, the Philadelphia Eagles’ journey this NFL season has been subject to uncertainty. Starting the year with high expectations and even with talk of possibly winning the Super Bowl, the Eagles demonstrated great potential.

However, as the season progressed, the team’s consistency began to falter, leading to a decrease in confidence from fans and analysts. One of the most critical moments for the Eagles was the 27-10 loss against the New York Giants. In this game, the team did not spare its main players, but still suffered a significant setback.

Jalen Hurts, a central piece of the Eagles offense, ended up injured, and Marcus Mariota had to take over, passing for 148 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Hurts, with 3,858 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and 15 interceptions on the season, now faces a challenge with his finger injury, but his presence in the game against the Buccaneers is expected. A.J. Brown, another vital player, is dealing with a knee injury, and his status for the game is uncertain.

The Eagles’ odds reflect this unstable phase. The team has lost three of its last four games as a favorite and has failed to cover the spread in its last six games. Additionally, the Eagles have lost the first quarter in four of their last six games as road favorites following a loss.

Conclusion:

Considering all these factors, the prognosis leans in favor of the under. The Buccaneers’ solid defense, combined with the Eagles’ uncertainty and inconsistencies, suggests the under is the best bet in this match.