The stage is set for an exciting matchup as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-6) take on the Los Angeles Chargers (8-5) at SoFi Stadium on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 4:25 p.m. EST. With the Buccaneers riding a three-game winning streak, they are keen to solidify their position in the NFC South. Meanwhile, the Chargers are determined to recover from a heartbreaking loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Stay tuned for David Delano’s insights and predictions for the Buccaneers vs. Chargers game on Sunday.
Tampa Bay’s Surge in the NFC South
The Buccaneers have demonstrated their potential to be serious playoff contenders. Their season began with a strong 3-1 record that included victories over teams like the Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles. However, after a mid-season struggle that saw them lose four consecutive games, they have bounced back impressively, winning three straight since their bye week.
The Tampa Bay offense has emerged as a formidable force, ranking fifth in the league and averaging 27.9 points per game with six yards per play. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has excelled, currently holding the third spot in the NFL with 28 touchdown passes and fifth in passing yards at 3,329. He has received valuable support from a dynamic rushing duo, Bucky Irving and Rachaad White. Irving, in particular, has made a significant impact as a rookie, accumulating 1,211 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns. Tight end Cade Otton has been a reliable target with 57 receptions, while Mike Evans leads the squad with 590 receiving yards, though he is questionable for the upcoming game. Defensively, the Buccaneers have shown improvement, allowing the second-fewest yards per play in their last three games, indicating a solidified unit as they approach the playoffs.
Chargers Facing Challenges Without Dobbins
On the other hand, the Chargers, guided by quarterback Justin Herbert, have been competitive this season, winning five of their last seven matches before narrowly losing to the Chiefs. Their offense currently ranks 20th, averaging 21.3 points per game and 17th in yards per play with 5.3. The team is grappling with the absence of their leading rusher, J.K. Dobbins, forcing them to adopt a committee strategy that resulted in 94 rushing yards on 24 carries against Kansas City.
Moving forward, the Chargers will need to enhance their aerial attack to compensate for the running game’s struggles. Justin Herbert has been reliable, throwing for 14 touchdowns and only one interception this season, and he is expected to play despite being listed as questionable. Defensively, the Chargers have shown glimpses of brilliance but must improve their consistency, particularly against the run. They rank 22nd in the NFL, allowing 4.6 yards per rushing attempt, which could be a pivotal factor against the Buccaneers’ balanced offensive strategy.
