NFL Picks: Week 2 Bears vs Buccaneers

Share News

The upcoming clash between the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has piqued the interest of NFL enthusiasts everywhere. Both teams come into this game after eventful first weeks, with the Buccaneers riding high on victory, and the Bears looking to rebound from their recent defeat. 

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Bears +3 (-110), Buccaneers -3 (-110) 

Moneyline: Bears +130, Buccaneers -158 

Total: O 41.5, U 41.5 (-110) 

Bears Looking for First NFL Match Victory 

The Chicago Bears, despite their storied history, have not had an auspicious start to this season. Falling to the Packers 38-20, the Bears had a tough outing in their first match. Justin Fields, the new signal-caller, showcased mixed results. Completing 24 out of 37 passes, he threw for 216 yards, with a touchdown and an interception each to his name. The rookie quarterback also proved his athletic prowess, leading the team with 59 rushing yards. Darnell Mooney emerged as Fields’ primary target, catching 4 balls for 53 yards and scoring a touchdown. While the offense showed some spark, the defense was a cause for concern. Tremaine Edmunds made a significant contribution with 8 combined tackles, and Yannick Ngakoue managed to register a sack, but a noticeable absence was the lack of interceptions.

Bucs Sailed over the Vikings 

In contrast, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the reigning champions, began their campaign on a positive note, securing a narrow 20-17 victory over the Vikings. With the departure of the legendary Tom Brady, there were question marks around how the team would fare. But Baker Mayfield, stepping into enormous shoes, delivered an impressive performance. Completing 21 of 34 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions, Mayfield showcased why he was the right choice. Rachaad White managed 39 rushing yards, whereas Mike Evans, Mayfield’s top receiver, secured 66 yards from 6 receptions, also scoring a touchdown. On the defensive front, Devin White led the team in tackles with a whopping 12 combined tackles. Antoine Winfield Jr. and Anthony Nelson recorded a sack each, and Christian Izien provided a notable highlight with an interception.

Prediction

BUSR NFL Odds has pinned the Buccaneers as a 3-point favorite for the upcoming encounter. With Brady’s retirement, there were speculations about the Buccaneers’ potential performance this season. Yet, the new quarterback, Mayfield, showed remarkable resilience and determination, bringing the team a triumphant victory against the Vikings. Their defense remains robust, promising a challenge for any opposition. On the other hand, the Bears’ defeat against the Packers has brought to light their struggles, both offensively and defensively. Their offense appears to lack the firepower needed, and their defense seems a shadow of its former formidable self. With the Buccaneers having their home opener and carrying the momentum from their week 1 victory, and the Bears grappling with their recent defeat, it appears a prudent decision to back the Buccaneers to cover the spread.

Injury Report 

The Bears have been unfortunate with injuries early in the season. Defensive back K. Gordon remains day-to-day due to a hand injury. But it’s the offensive line that has taken a significant hit. D. Kramer is out indefinitely with a hand injury, while T. Jenkins, another valuable player on the offensive line, is out indefinitely due to leg issues. These absences can profoundly impact their offensive plays, making it even more challenging against a stout Buccaneers defense.

Tampa Bay, too, isn’t devoid of injury concerns. On the defensive side, C. Kancey is day-to-day with a calf injury. K. Vaughn, a potential contributor in the running game, remains day-to-day due to personal reasons. More significantly, the Buccaneers’ offensive unit faces challenges with R. Jensen, their center, placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury. Wide receiver R. Gage also finds himself on injured reserve, which could potentially affect Mayfield’s passing options.