With the Buccaneers‘ 2025 opponents released and the schedule set, let’s take a look at how the season could unfold for the Buccaneers:
Leaks have this being the Bucs’ Week One opponent in Atlanta, against up-and-coming quarterback Michael Penix Jr. After two horrendous losses last season to the Falcons, Tampa Bay will look to right the wrongs with a healthy defense in a big way.
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Prediction: Win (1-0)
The Texans have another up-and-coming quarterback in CJ Stroud, although he had a rough sophomore slump in 2024. Some of this could be attributed to poor offensive line play, but some of the decisions by the second-year quarterback left some questions as to which version of Stroud the Texans will get in 2025. Add in losing Laremy Tunsil, Stefon Diggs in the offseason, and Tank Dell to an injury, and I think the Bucs’ defense overwhelms Stroud.
Prediction: Win (2-0)
While the Eagles have struggled against the Bucs in recent meetings, they’ve been without All-Pro WR AJ Brown. Coming off a Super Bowl and having Saquon Barkley to take the pressure off of Hurts and the pass game will be a tough feat for Tampa Bay.
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Prediction: Loss (2-1)
vs. San Francisco 49ers
Unlike the Eagles, the Buccaneers have struggled against the 49ers. Niners quarterback Brock Purdy debuted against the Bucs and Tom Brady and dominated for four straight quarters. However, San Francisco has been gutted this offseason defensively and on the offensive line.
Prediction: Win (3-1)
vs. New England Patriots
The Patriots’ rebuilding phase and offensive struggles provide an opportunity for the Bucs to secure a comfortable win at home.
Prediction: Win (4-1)
at Buffalo Bills
Traveling to face the AFC East champions, the Buccaneers will encounter a high-powered Bills offense. This road game may result in a loss for Tampa Bay.
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Prediction: Loss (4-2)
vs. New York Jets
Back at home, the Buccaneers face a Jets team with a strong defense but an inconsistent offense led by new quarterback Justin Fields. Tampa Bay’s balanced attack on offense should secure the win in front of the fans.
Prediction: Win (5-2)
vs. Arizona Cardinals
Hosting the Cardinals, who are in a rebuilding phase, the Buccaneers should capitalize on their home-field advantage for a win.
Prediction: Win (6-2)
at Detroit Lions
It will be tough to face the NFC North champions on the road. The Lions’ balanced team may hand the Buccaneers a loss.
Prediction: Loss (6-3)
at Miami Dolphins
Traveling to Miami, the Buccaneers will need to contain the Dolphins’ explosive offense. This game could go either way, but the Bucs might edge out a win.
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Prediction: Win (7-4)
at Los Angeles Rams
Playing on the road during a prime-time slot adds pressure. The Rams’ dynamic offense may prove too much for the Bucs, as Sean McVay seems to have Tampa’s number.
Prediction: Loss (7-5)
at Seattle Seahawks
The Buccaneers’ offense will need to perform at a high level in a challenging environment. This game could be a close contest, but the Bucs might secure a win.
Prediction: Win (8-5)
vs. Carolina Panthers
Returning home to face a division rival, the Buccaneers should leverage their offensive strengths to earn a victory against a very young Panthers team that is still putting it together.
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Prediction: Win (9-5)
vs. Atlanta Falcons
Hosting the Falcons, the Buccaneers aim to sweep the season series. I have them avenging their 2024 sweep in their week 1 matchup, but I think Bucs split the series with an up-and-coming divisional opponent here.
Prediction: Loss (9-6)
The Buccaneers will face a tough divisional matchup on the road against the Saints. But with the Saints seemingly headed towards a much-needed rebuild and questions at quarterback, the Buccaneers should pull out the win.
Prediction: Win (10-6)
vs. Carolina Panthers
Back at home, the Buccaneers look to solidify their playoff positioning with a win over the Panthers.
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Prediction: Win (11-6)
vs. New Orleans Saints
Closing the regular season vs a division rival, the Buccaneers may face a motivated Saints team. This finale could end in a loss, especially if the Bucs have already locked up playoff positioning.
Prediction: Loss (11-7)
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Projected win totals ahead of the Bucs schedule announcement for 2025
