Eagles vs Buccaneers score, takeaways: Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay defense thwart Philadelphia for Week 4 win
Eagles vs Buccaneers Picks, Predictions, and Best Bets: Barkley Beats Up on Bucs
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the Philadelphia Eagles’ number.
Baker Mayfield threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another, leading the Buccaneers to a dominant 33-16 win over the Eagles. Tampa Bay scored on four of its first five possessions and outgained Philadelphia 255-0 at one point in the first half, leaving no doubt about the outcome.
The Eagles attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, cutting the score to 30-16 late in the third quarter and advancing into the red zone. However, a Jalen Hurts fumble ended a promising 50-yard drive, effectively shutting down their best chance to make the game competitive. Hurts’ turnover prevented the Eagles from closing the gap to a one-score game.
Tampa Bay dominated throughout, taking full advantage of an Eagles defense weakened by the loss of safety Reed Blankenship (illness) and defensive tackle Jalen Carter (cramps). On offense, the Eagles were already missing starters Lane Johnson, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith and lost center Cam Jurgens to cramps in the second half.
The Buccaneers’ defense was as scorching as the 108-degree heat index in Tampa, limiting the Eagles to under 300 total yards and just 5.0 yards per play. “eagles vs buccaneers, philadelphia eagles vs tampa bay buccaneers match player stats, eagles, eagles game today, eagles score, bucs vs eagles, “They recorded six sacks and six quarterback hits, with Lavonte David contributing two sacks. Five Buccaneers recorded a sack in the game.
Mayfield passed for over 300 yards, while Mike Evans and Trey Palmer each caught a touchdown pass. Rookie running back Bucky Irving also scored his first career touchdown in the second half.
Why the Buccaneers Won
The Buccaneers controlled the game from the start, scoring on their first five possessions. Baker Mayfield’s hot start (12-of-13 for 138 yards and two touchdowns after two possessions) was facilitated by quick passes from offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s play-calling. Tampa Bay’s defense was equally dominant, applying constant pressure on Jalen Hurts with six sacks and 24 quarterback pressures. Todd Bowles’ defensive unit gave the Eagles no room to breathe.
Why the Eagles Lost
The Eagles were simply outmatched in every phase of the game. They were outgained 255-0 midway through the second quarter and didn’t achieve a first down until late in the second quarter. Their defense allowed 445 yards and 6.0 yards per play, “eagles vs buccaneers, philadelphia eagles vs tampa bay buccaneers match player stats, eagles, eagles game today, eagles score, bucs vs eagles, ” while the offense managed just 227 yards. Special teams also struggled, with multiple players colliding with punt returner Cooper DeJean, leading to a fumble that set up a Buccaneers touchdown. Sloppy fundamentals plagued the Eagles, who had 12 missed tackles and costly red-zone turnovers.
Turning Point
The game was practically over from the beginning. Tampa Bay opened with a 79-yard, 10-play drive that resulted in a Mike Evans touchdown for a 7-0 lead. The Eagles’ last real opportunity came late in the third quarter when they trailed 30-16 and were at the Buccaneers’ 19-yard line. However, Hurts was strip-sacked by Lavonte David, and Tampa Bay recovered, sealing the game.
Play of the Game
The most impressive play came on a blocked extra point by Isaiah Rodgers, which was returned for a two-point conversion by Kelee Ringo. This was the first time this season that a blocked extra point was returned for two points, briefly making the game a two-score affair.
What’s Next
The Eagles (2-2) enter their bye week before hosting the Cleveland Browns on October 13. The Buccaneers (3-1) will travel to face the Atlanta Falcons on “Thursday Night Football” on October 3.
Eagles vs. Buccaneers Prediction
For Week 4 predictions, I’m betting on Saquon Barkley to continue his strong start for the Eagles. The Philadelphia Eagles signed Barkley from the New York Giants this offseason, and he’s been productive, rushing for 351 yards on 63 carries with four touchdowns through three games. Barkley has been a key part of the Eagles’ offense, rushing for over 95 yards in each game this season, including a 65-yard touchdown run in Week 3.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense, which has allowed 413 rushing yards through three games, could struggle to contain Barkley. “eagles vs buccaneers, philadelphia eagles vs tampa bay buccaneers match player stats, eagles, eagles game today, eagles score, bucs vs eagles, ” Although the weather forecast in Tampa Bay could bring rain, which would make passing more difficult, it would likely lead to more carries for Barkley.
Eagles vs. Buccaneers Odds
Spread: Philadelphia -2.5
Moneyline: Philadelphia -145, Tampa Bay +120
Over/Under: 42.5
Betting Trend
The Buccaneers have scored last in 10 of their last 13 games, which could be a trend to watch.
Eagles vs. Buccaneers Game Info
Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
TV: FOX
Eagles Injuries
Luke Goedeke (T) – Out with a concussion.
Rachaad White (RB) – Questionable (illness).
Chris Godwin (WR) – Injured (neck).
