NFL Picks: Preseason Week 2 Buccaneers vs. Jets

NFL
September 1, 2023

Week 2 of the 2023 NFL preseason brings with it exhilarating action, and the interconference duel between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, stands out as a must-watch. Let’s delve deeper into the intricate layers of this high-stakes preseason duel.

 

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Buccaneers +4 (-110), Jets -4 (-110) 

Moneyline: Buccaneers +148, Jets -183 

Spread: Buccaneers O 37 (-110), Jets U 37 (-110) 

 

The Buccaneers’ Quest Beyond Tom Brady

Last week, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were outmaneuvered in a 27-17 home defeat by the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was largely a one-sided affair, with the Steelers boasting a staggering 27-7 lead as the third quarter closed. Alarmingly, the Buccaneers’ stats underlined their struggles; a mere 4-for-14 on 3rd down conversions, 66 rushing yards over 26 attempts, and conceding a worrying 127 yards through 12 penalties.

Baker Mayfield, the Bucs’ new acquisition for this season, is slated as the probable successor to the legendary Tom Brady. Mayfield’s Week 1 showcase comprised seven completions from eight attempts, accumulating 63 yards and a touchdown. Florida’s third-year prodigy, Kyle Trask, despite a 6-for-10, 99-yard record, and an interception, is anticipated to face off against the Jets in Week 2.

While star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin remained benched in Week 1, a trend likely to persist, players like Trey Palmer, Kaylon Geiger, and David Moore stepped up, combining for a notable 11 receptions, 149 yards, and a touchdown. Contrastingly, the Buccaneers’ defensive unit appeared porous, surrendering 340 total yards to the Steelers.

 

Jets’ Domination against the Panthers

Rebounding from their 21-16 setback against the Cleveland Browns in the Hall of Fame Game, the New York Jets put on a masterclass, silencing the Carolina Panthers with a dominant 27-0 scoreline. Emphasizing a run-heavy strategy, the Jets retained possession for an impressive 36 minutes, amassing 348-199 in total yards against the Panthers. Their 141 yards on 37 carries was a testament to their ground-game prowess.

While NFL superstar Aaron Rodgers took a backseat, Zach Wilson took charge, completing 14 out of 20 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown. Backup QB Tim Boyle also impressed with a 9-for-10, 84-yard performance, bagging two touchdowns despite an interception. The prowess of the Jets’ O-line paved the way for rookie Israel Abanikanda’s 56 yards on 12 carries, while another standout rookie, Travis Dye from USC, chipped in with 32 yards. The Jets’ defense was formidable, making five sacks and an interception, effectively stifling the Panthers.

 

Matchup Insights and Predictions

Depth-wise, the Jets appear a more robust outfit compared to the Buccaneers. Banking on their recent defensive masterclass against the Panthers, they are poised to be the crowd favorites. Tampa Bay, especially with Kyle Trask leading, might struggle to make significant inroads against the Jets’ fortified defense.

The Jets are expected to heavily favor their ground game once more. With Zach Wilson having much to showcase in the preseason, the offensive play is bound to be dynamic. Conversely, the Buccaneers might find themselves grappling to make consistent advances, particularly in light of the Jets’ recent defensive showcase.

 

In Summary

As the Buccaneers grapple with a post-Tom Brady transition, and the Jets soar with renewed vigor, this Saturday’s matchup promises to be electric. While pre-season games serve as an experimental ground for NFL Odds, the intense competition between these teams might give fans an early taste of regular-season intensity. As the MetLife Stadium gears up for this showdown, all signs point to the Jets continuing their ascent, with the Buccaneers facing an uphill battle.