NFL picks and predictions, Giants vs. Buccaneers 2015: Experts divided on NFC matchup

Though the New York Giants are currently in possession of first place in their division while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers flounder in the cellar of the NFC South, it's the Bucs who appear to be in a better place heading into Sunday's matchup.

The Buccaneers knocked off the previously undefeated Atlanta Falcons last week, surviving a fourth-quarter barrage to hang on and win, 23-20. It appeared as if the Buccaneers would give up yet another sizable lead -- they blew a 21-point advantage over Washington in Week 7 before losing 31-30 -- but they were able to hold on. Kicker Connor Barth nailed a 31-yard field goal in overtime to give Tampa Bay the win.

Jameis Winston was impressive in OT, converting three times on third down. He demonstrated his high football IQ several times Sunday, especially on his third-quarter touchdown run. The No. 1 overall pick has now gone three consecutive games without committing a turnover.

Eli Manning is coming off a sensational performance against the New Orleans Saints, in which he threw for 350 yards and six touchdown passes. But a special teams breakdown at the end prohibited the Giants from extending the game into overtime. Giants punter Brad Wing, he of the infamous golf swing celebration, was whistled for a face mask on Saints punt returner Willie Snead with 20 seconds remaining in regulation. The penalty placed the Saints on New York's 32-yard line, which set up a game-winning field goal for Kai Forbath.

The potential return of Jason Pierre-Paul could give an ineffective Giants pass rush a boost, but Winston is more poised than most rookie quarterbacks. There's no guarantee he won't be able to handle the pressure.