The Tampa Bay Buccaneers probably aren't as bad as you think they are. They aren't good, but coming off a bye after a 38-31 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, they've certainly got a chance at FedEx Field against Washington.
NFL picks and predictions, Buccaneers vs. Washington 2015: Kirk Cousins favored to pick up a key victory
Washington’s pass defense will have to find a way to force Jameis Winston into turnovers.
Both teams probably get too much attention over their quarterback position, between Jameis Winston's rookie season and Jay Gruden's burial of Robert Griffin III. But there will be other factors in this game. Tampa has put together a decent running game behind Doug Martin and utility back Charles Sims, and its disastrous kicking game seems to have been solved with the signing of Connor Barth.
Washington, on the other hand, hasn't been able to figure out any offensive identity. Kirk Cousins continues to struggle, while Alfred Morris still doesn't have a rushing touchdown as the lead back. Matt Jones is getting more work, but he's hobbled with a toe injury. Meanwhile, third-down back Chris Thompson, who has been the most effective, is dealing with a neck injury.
One interesting matchup will be Winston going against a Washington pass defense that struggles to intercept passes -- something you need to do against Tampa’s vertical passing attack. The Buccaneers have the same problem -- both teams only have three interceptions -- but Martin could be poised for a big day. After starting out the season strong, Washington’s rushing defense has allowed a total of 397 yards on the ground in the past two games.
In a game between two flawed teams, home-field advantage can play a huge role, which is probably why the experts over at CBS Sports are leaning toward a Washington victory, with six of eight panelists putting their faith behind a Kirk Cousins offense. Here at SB Nation, only Stephen White is picking the Bucs over Washington.
| Ryan Van Bibber | Stephen White | Joel Thorman | David Fucillo | Danny Kelly | Matt Ufford | PFT Commenter | OddsShark | |
| TB vs WAS | WAS | TB | WAS | WAS | WAS | WAS | WAS | WAS |
See More:
