The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on the Detroit Lions in one of Week 7’s most intriguing matchups. Baker Mayfield and Jared Goff headline the clash as two quarterbacks who have shown flashes of brilliance this season but are now under pressure to deliver consistent results.
Both teams enter this contest aiming to prove they belong in the NFC’s upper tier. With both offenses capable of moving the ball quickly, this game could be defined by protection, health, and execution.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Detroit Lions Prediction
The Lions come into the game slightly healthier and more consistent on both ends of the field. Goff has been sharp leading the Detroit offense, showing improved pocket awareness and chemistry with his playmakers.
The Lions’ balanced approach on offense and their strong defensive front could be decisive factors in slowing Tampa Bay’s attack.
The Buccaneers, on the other hand, have shown grit under Mayfield, even while dealing with injuries to key offensive players. When healthy, Mayfield’s quick-release passing and aggressive mentality can keep defenses on edge.
If the Lions can maintain offensive balance and keep Goff protected, they should have the upper hand. Expect a competitive game early, but Detroit’s consistency and home-field rhythm could tilt the outcome their way.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Detroit Lions Depth Chart
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Offense)
| QB | Baker Mayfield |
| RB | Rachaad White |
| WR1 | Mike Evans |
| WR2 | Chris Godwin |
| WR3 | Emeka Egbuka |
| TE | Cade Otton |
| LT | Tristan Wirfs |
| RG | Cody Mauch |
| RT | Luke Goedeke |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Defense)
| DL | Vita Vea |
| DL | Calijah Kancey |
| LB | Lavonte David |
| CB2 | Jamel Dean |
| S | Antoine Winfield Jr. |
Detroit Lions (Offense)
| QB | Jared Goff |
| RB1 | Jahmyr Gibbs |
| RB2 | David Montgomery |
| WR1 | Amon-Ra St. Brown |
| WR2 | Jameson Williams |
| TE | Sam LaPorta |
| LT | Taylor Decker |
| RG | Graham Glasgow |
| RT | Penei Sewell |
Detroit Lions (Defense)
| DL | Alim McNeill |
| EDGE | Aidan Hutchinson |
| LB | Jack Campbell |
| LB | Derrick Barnes |
| CB2 | Avonte Maddox |
| S | Kerby Joseph |
| S | Brian Branch |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Detroit Lions Injury Report
The Buccaneers enter the week banged up across their offense. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin are both questionable with lower-body injuries. Emeka Egbuka remains doubtful with a hamstring issue, leaving Mayfield’s receiving corps thin. Defensive lineman Calijah Kancey is officially ruled out for the season.
For the Lions, Taylor Decker and cornerback Avonte Maddox are listed as questionable. Alim McNeill is expected to make his season debut after recovering from a torn ACL.
Both starting quarterbacks, Mayfield and Goff, are healthy and will start. With the Lions holding a slight health advantage and stronger line play, they enter the matchup as favorites to edge out Tampa Bay in what should be a physical and entertaining game.
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