The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play the first of their five scheduled interconference games in Week Three, welcoming a visit from Sean Payton, Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos. The Buccaneers are seeking their first 3-0 start to a season since 2005 while the Broncos are trying to get into the win column for the first time this season.
In Payton's second year at the helm after his lengthy tenure in the NFC South with the rival New Orleans Saints, the Broncos have struggled to score points but have kept both games close so far. A four-yard touchdown run from the rookie Nix in Week one pulled the Broncos to within six points of the Seahawks in Seattle in Week One but Denver couldn't get the ball back after that in a 26-20 decision. Last weekend, the Broncos kicked two field goals in the fourth quarter to once again get back within a touchdown against Pittsburgh but didn't have time to complete the comeback in a 13-6 loss. So far Nix's touchdown is the only one Denver has scored in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers followed up a 37-20 thrashing of Washington in their home opener with a rousing 20-16 upset win in Detroit, against a Lions team that knocked them out of last year's playoffs. Baker Mayfield is off to a hot start with a 129.1 passer rating and has already thrown two touchdown passes each to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. The defense has been hit by a nonstop rash of injuries but players such as Christian Izien, Greg Gaines and C.J. Brewer have stepped up to keep Todd Bowles' unit on track. In his first year as a full-time starter, cornerback Zyon McCollum (an interception and four passes defensed in Detroit) is emerging as an impact player and could be the X-Factor that ties the whole defense together.
Still, despite the differences in their records, the Buccaneers are not expecting anything less than a 60-minute fight from Payton's crew on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers are favored by approximately a touchdown against the Broncos, but they were also underdogs by the same margin last weekend in Detroit. The Buccaneers have now started the last four seasons 2-0, but in each of the previous three they wound up losing in Week Three. Last season, in fact, the Bucs followed that 2-0 start with losses in seven of their next nine outings, necessitating a 5-1 blitz at the end of the season to win a third straight division title.
"Yeah, I mean, 2-0 is 2-0," said Mayfield. "A lot of ball left. We know last year we started out 3-1 and hit the opposite turn. This is a group with a lot of the same pieces [where] we've been through this before together. Your standard is your standard – you have to meet that every single day and each game. Just hit the reset button and it doesn't matter what the outside noise is. We expected to be playing well at this point and we expect to continue to play well."
Payton proved he could be the architect of a productive offense during and after the Drew Brees era, and he got the quarterback he badly wanted in this year's draft. The Saints are likely to find their footing on offense in 2024 – like they did last year with a five-game winning streak after a 1-5 start, and the defense is already performing at a high level. Cornerback Patrick Surtain is a bona fide star capable of shutting down an opponent's top receiver, and Zach Allen leads a potentially dangerous defensive front.
"I think Sean is very good at building the team around what he has," said Buccaneers Head Coach Todd Bowles. "He can coach a lot of different [kinds of] football a lot of different ways. He's a very bright guy, very sharp guy. There's some minor Saints stuff but most of it is different and the players are different, the scheme is different, so we have to play what we see."
It's a long season but every game is important by the end. The Buccaneers will seek to put together their best performance yet in Week Three as they take on a Broncos team that is sure to provide a stiff challenge.
"This group, with the smart players we have, the guys that have been through this understand that if you don't bring your best stuff on whatever game it is – whoever you're playing – you can get beat," said Mayfield. "For us, it's the singular-game mindset. One focus, one week at a time, and handle it the best way you can."
GAME AND BROADCAST DETAILS
Denver Broncos (0-2) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0)
Sunday, September 22, 1:00 p.m. ET
Raymond James Stadium (capacity: 65,844)
Tampa, Florida
Television: FOX (Local WTVT Channel 13)
TV Broadcast Team: Tim Brando (play-by-play), Matt Millen (analyst), Sarah Kustok (reporter)
Radio: 98Rock (WXTB, 97.9 FM), Flagship Station
Radio Broadcast Team: Gene Deckerhoff (play-by-play), Dave Moore (analyst), T.J. Rives (reporter)
Spanish Radio: 96.1 Caliente
Spanish Radio Broadcast Team: Carlos Bohorquez (play-by-play), Martin Gramática (analyst), Santiago Gramática (reporter)
GAMEDAY INFORMATION
Coming to the game or enjoying pregame festivities? Check out our Buccaneers Gameday Page for everything you need to know about getting ready for the game, Tailgate Packages, Bucs Beach and more!
TICKETING INFORMATION
The 2024 season is underway and there are a limited number of Single Game Tickets on sale now! Visit Buccaneers.com to purchase tickets.
ALL-TIME HEAD-TO-HEAD SERIES
The Buccaneers and Broncos do not have an extensive shared history, having only met 10 times in Tampa Bay's first 48 seasons. Denver leads the series, 7-3, but the Buccaneers own the most recent decision, a 28-10 drubbing in Colorado in 2020. Two of Tampa Bay's three victories in the rivalry have taken place in Denver.
The Bucs' road win over the Broncos four years ago was led by outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett, who punished his previous team with two of Tampa Bay's six sacks on the afternoon and was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week. The Broncos did get 229 passing yards and a touchdown out of the quarterbacking duo of Jeff Driskel and Brett Rypien, but Lavonte David and Mike Edwards each snared interceptions. Meanwhile, Tom Brady threw three touchdown passes and no interceptions, including a pair of one-yard scoring tosses to Mike Evans.
Prior to that, the Buccaneers' other win in Denver had taken place 23 years ago. The Bucs' first touchdown in that game was scored by tight end Dave Moore, who is now in his 18th season as an analyst on the Buccaneers' radio game broadcasts.
Denver had won four games in a row in the series before the Bucs' most recent triumph, over the course of 13 seasons. Tampa Bay's other victory in the series came in 1999 in Tampa in a 13-10 slugfest against the defending Super Bowl champions. To be fair, these particular defending champs were a little different than most in that soon-to-be Hall-of-Famer John Elway had retired after the Broncos' victory in Super Bowl XXXIII, riding off into the sunset with two straight Lombardi Trophies. Mike Alstott scored the Bucs' only touchdown in that 1999 win and Hardy Nickerson had a key interception off future Buccaneer Brian Griese.
Denver came to Tampa in 2016 and came away with a 27-7 win despite starting quarterback Trevor Siemian being knocked out of the game early. Rookie Paxton Lynch relieved and threw a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Emmanuel Sanders to put the game out of reach. Former Buccaneer Aqib Talib took care of the Bucs on defense with a pair of interceptions and the Bucs were held to 215 yards.
Denver also won a pair of consecutive 16-13 decisions in 2004 and 2008. The first game to feature the Bucs and Broncos came during Tampa Bay's inaugural 1976 season, in which they finished 0-14. The Buccaneers' roster was stocked mostly with past-their-prime veterans and untested rookies that season and Denver easily got the 48-13 win, with Bucs quarterbacks Steve Spurrier and Parnell Dickinson each throwing a pick-six.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's Week 2 victory against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, September 15th, 2024 at Ford Field.
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 and Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Guard Cody Mauch #69, Tackle Justin Skule #77, and Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, Running Back Rachaad White #1, and Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Jamel Dean #35 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a turnover during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 and Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers intercepts a pass during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Fans during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Offensive Line Coach Kevin Carberry of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 and Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Tyrek Funderburk #24 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Punter Jake Camarda #5, Long Snapper Evan Deckers #86, and Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Markees Watts #58 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cleats and Bible before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Tyrek Funderburk #24 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 and Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Bucs flag during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Trey Palmer #10 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 and Punter Jake Camarda #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0, Cornerback Tavierre Thomas #37, and Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Chris Braswell #43 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 and Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Logan Hall #90, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0, Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 and Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebackers Coach George Edwards, Special Teams Coordinator Thomas McGaughey and Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Punter Jake Camarda #5 and Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Safety Christian Izien #29, Cornerback Tavierre Thomas #37 and Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 and Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DETROIT, MI - September 15, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions. The Bucs won the game, 20-16. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NOTABLE CONNECTIONS
- Buccaneers Assistant General Manager John Spytek spent three years on the Broncos scouting staff. He was an area scout in 2013 before being elevated to a national scout for the following two seasons.
- Broncos Assistant Offensive Line Coach Austin King played three seasons in the NFL as a center and originally entered the league as a fourth-round draft pick in 2003. He did not play any games for Tampa Bay but did get into 34 contests with the Falcons over the course of three years.
- Thomas McGaughey, who is in his first season as the Buccaneers' special teams coordinator, worked two seasons with the Broncos early in his NFL coaching career. McGaughey was on Mike Shanahan's staff in 2005 and 2006 as an assistant special teams coach, working alongside Special Teams Coach Ronnie Bradford.
- Paul Kelly, the Assistant to Head Coach Sean Payton in Denver, spent five seasons (2004-08) in a similar role with Head Coach Jon Gruden in Tampa.
- Buccaneers running back Chase Edmonds, who is on injured reserve, spent the latter half of the 2022 season with the Broncos after a midseason trade from Miami to Denver. Edmonds logged 26 carries for 125 yards for the Broncos and also caught six passes for 61 yards.
SENIOR COACHING STAFFS
Tampa Bay:
- Head Coach Todd Bowles
- Offensive Coordinator Liam Coen
- Run Game Coordinator/Defensive Line Coach Kacy Rodgers
- Pass Game Coordinator/Inside Linebackers Coach Larry Foote
- Special Teams Coordinator Thomas McGaughey
Denver:
- Head Coach Sean Payton
- Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi
- Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph
- Special Teams Coordinator Ben Kotwica
KEY 2024 ROSTER ADDITIONS
Buccaneers:
- C Graham Barton (1st-round draft pick)
- OLB Chris Braswell (2nd-round draft pick)
- G Ben Bredeson (UFA)
- TE Devin Culp (7th-round draft pick)
- CB Tyrek Funderburk (UDFA)
- CB Bryce Hall (UFA)
- RB Bucky Irving (4th-round draft pick)
- WR Kameron Johnson (UDFA)
- G Elijah Klein (6th-round draft pick)
- WR Jalen McMillan (3rd-round draft pick)
- G Royce Newman (W-GB)
- S Tykee Smith (3rd-round draft pick)
- CB Tavierre Thomas (UFA)
- S Jordan Whitehead (UFA)
Broncos:
- CB Kris Abrams-Draine (5th-round draft pick)
- LB Cody Barton (UFA)
- T Frank Crum (UDFA)
- OLB Jonah Elliss (3rd-round draft pick)
- RB Audric Estime (5th-round draft pick…currently on injured reserve)
- WR Troy Franklin (4th-round draft pick)
- DE John Franklin-Myers (T-NYJ)
- S Brandon Jones (UFA)
- QB Bo Nix (1st-round draft pick)
- T Matt Peart (UFA)
- WR Josh Reynolds (UFA)
- DT Malcolm Roach (UFA)
- WR Devaughn Vale (7th-round draft pick)
- CB Levi Wallace (UFA)
- RB Blake Watson (UDFA)
- QB Zach Wilson (T-NYJ)
ADDITIONAL 2024 CHANGES/DEVELOPMENTS OF NOTE
Buccaneers:
- As Todd Bowles enters his third season as the Bucs' head coach he'll be working with his third offensive coordinator in as many seasons. Last year, Bowles picked former Seattle Quarterbacks Coach Dave Canales to replace Byron Leftwich, but Canales departed this offseason to take over as the head coach of the Panthers. Bowles then turned to Liam Coen, who comes from the Sean McVay coaching tree with the Rams and most recently was the offensive coordinator at the University of Kentucky. Three members of the Bucs' 2023 staff followed Canales to Carolina – Brad Idzik, Harold Goodwin and Joe Gilbert, which led to some other new additions on Bowles staff in 2024. Those include Offensive Line Coach Kevin Carberry, Pass Game Coordinator Josh Grizzard, Wide Receivers Coach Bryan McClendon and Assistant Offensive Line Coach Brian Picucci. In addition, long-time Special Teams Coordinator Keith Armstrong retired in the offseason, so the Bucs brought in Thomas McGaughey as his replacement.
- Under Coen, the Buccaneers' offense is expected to employ quite a bit more pre-snap shifts and movement than it had in 2023, and Coen also plans to widen the variety of the types of runs the ground game employees. One of Coen's other key initiatives in an attempt to get a moribund rushing attack going is to give quarterback Baker Mayfield multiple plays to choose from in the huddle and at the line so that the offense runs into unfavorable looks less often.
- Despite having tight salary cap restrictions, the Buccaneers made it a priority to retain key players from the 2023 season who were scheduled to hit free agency. General Manager Jason Licht and his staff successfully checked off every item on their list of priorities, beginning with a new two-year deal for franchise icon Mike Evans. That helped bring the team's negotiations with quarterback Baker Mayfield to a conclusion. After Mayfield played the 2023 season on a one-year prove-it deal, his resurgence landed him a lucrative new multi-year contract. The Bucs were also able to re-sign linebacker Lavonte David and kicker Chase McLaughlin. With the other deals in the works, the Bucs used the franchise tag on safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and later inking him to a new contract making him the highest-paid defensive back in the NFL.
- All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs didn't need a new contract for 2024 but he was entering the final year of his rookie deal and the Buccaneers were highly motivated to lock him in to a new long-term pact. That lengthy process came to a head on August 1, when the two sides agreed on a five-year extension that runs through the 2029 campaign and makes him the highest paid offensive lineman in the NFL.
- In March, the Buccaneers traded cornerback Carlton Davis, who had started 75 games over six seasons with the team, to the Detroit Lions for a third-round pick in this year's draft. The Buccaneers eventually used that pick to select Washington wide receiver Jalen McMillan.
Broncos:
- After trying a Sean Payton-Russell Wilson pairing for just one season, the Broncos released Wilson in March and he subsequently signed with the Steelers. Denver had acquired Wilson in a blockbuster trade with Seattle during the 2022 offseason, prior to Payton's arrival. The Broncos sent five draft picks to the Seahawks, including two first-rounders and two second-rounders, along with three veteran players in order to get Wilson, who had made nine Pro Bowls in 10 seasons in Seattle. After acquiring Wilson, the Broncos signed him to a new five-year, $242 million contract in 2022, and by releasing him with two years remaining on that deal they had to absorb an $85 million dead cap hit.
- The Broncos also released their long-time standout safety Justin Simmons in March, just after his second Pro Bowl appearance. Simmons subsequently signed with the Atlanta Falcons.
- On the same day the Broncos officially released Wilson in March, they also traded one of his top targets, wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, to the Cleveland Browns for fifth and sixth-round picks in this year's draft. Jeudy was a first-round draft pick in 2020 (15th overall) and he recorded 214 catches for 3,078 yards and 12 touchdowns over four seasons in Denver. The Broncos used that fifth-rounder in a deal to trade up and nab wide receiver Troy Franklin. The extra sixth-rounder was included in a deal to get quarterback Zach Wilson from the Jets.
- The Broncos did not have a lot of defections in free agency, though starting center Lloyd Cushenberry left to join the Titans. Linebacker Josey Jewell, who had 108 tackles and 3.0 sacks last year, also used free agency to jump to the join the Panthers, while defensive tackle Jonathan Harris found a new home in Miami and tight end Chris Manhertz went to the Giants.
- Wide receiver Tim Patrick returned to the field this offseason after significant training camp injuries robbed him of the last two seasons. However, the Broncos released Patrick in the roster cutdown to 53 and he latched on with the Lions' practice squad.
- Payton made a couple noteworthy additions to his Broncos coaching staff in his second season, most notably Pete Carmichael, who is now the team's senior offensive assistant. Carmichael was with Payton in New Orleans for 16 seasons, the last 13 as the Saints' offensive coordinator. Jim Leonhard, who went into the college coaching ranks after finishing his 10-year playing career as a safety in the NFL, left Illinois to join Payton's staff as defensive backs coach/pass game coordinator.
- The Broncos unveiled a new set of uniforms shortly before the draft. The set includes orange, white and blue jerseys and three different helmets – primary blue, alternate white and a throwback with a "D" logo on it. The uniforms include the number "5280" – a nod to the team playing its home games at a mile-high altitude – on the front of the helmet and along the side of the pants.
INJURY REPORT
Key:
DNP: Did not participate in practice
LP: Limited participation in practice
FP: Full participation in practice
NL: Not listed
Buccaneers:
- LB Lavonte David (rest) – WEDS: NL; THURS: NL; FRI: LP. Game Status: Not listed.
- CB Jamel Dean (knee) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- WR Mike Evans (rest) – WEDS: NL; THURS: NL; FRI: LP. Game Status: Not listed.
- DL Will Gholston (knee) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: LP; FRI: LP. Game Status: Questionable.
- T Luke Goedeke (concussion) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Out.
- DL Logan Hall (foot) – WEDS: LP; THURS: LP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- CB Josh Hayes (ankle) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: LP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Questionable.
- DL Calijah Kancey (calf) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Out.
- WR Kameron Johnson (ankle) – WEDS: LP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Doubtful.
- DL Vita Vea (knee) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: LP. Game Status: Doubtful.
- RB Rachaad White (groin) – WEDS: LP; THURS: LP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- S Antoine Winfield Jr. (foot) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Out.
Broncos:
- DE Zach Allen (shoulder) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- LB Baron Browning (foot) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Out.
- TE Greg Dulcich (knee/ankle) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- DE John Franklin-Myers (concussion) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: LP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- S Brandon Jones (foot) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: LP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- WR Josh Reynolds (achilles) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- S J.L. Skinner (ankle) – WEDS: DNP; THURS: DNP; FRI: DNP. Game Status: Out.
- TE Adam Trautman (shoulder) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
- WR Devaughn Vele (ribs) – WEDS: LP; THURS: FP; FRI: FP. Game Status: Not listed.
WEATHER FORECAST
Mostly sunny. High of 91, low of 72, 15% chance of rain, 68% humidity, winds out of the NE at 5-10 mph.
GAME REFEREE
Head referee: Alan Eck (9th season, 2nd as referee)
BETTING LINE
- Favorite: Buccaneers (-6.5)
- Over/Under: 39.5
INDIVIDUAL STAT LEADERS IN 2024
Buccaneers-
Points Scored: K Chase McLauglin, 21
Touchdowns: WR Mike Evans/Chris Godwin, 2
Passing Yards: QB Baker Mayfield, 474
Passer Rating: QB Baker Mayfield, 129.1
Rushing Yards: RB Bucky Irving, 84
Receptions: WR Chris Godwin, 15
Receiving Yards: WR Chris Godwin, 200
Interceptions: S Christian Izien/CB Zyon McCollum, 2
Sacks: LB SirVocea Dennis/OLB Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, 1.0
Tackles: S Jordan Whitehead, 19
Broncos-
Points Scored: K Will Lutz, 16
Touchdowns: QB Bo Nix, 1
Passing Yards: QB Bo Nix, 384
Passer Rating: QB Bo Nix, 51.0
Rushing Yards: QB Bo Nix, 60
Receptions: WR Josh Reynolds, 9
Receiving Yards: WR Josh Reynolds, 138
Interceptions: LB Alex Singleton, 1
Sacks: OLB Jonathon Cooper, 2.0
Tackles: LB Alex Singleton, 20
TEAM STAT RANKINGS IN 2024
Buccaneers-
Scoring Offense: 4th (28.5 ppg)
Total Offense: 19th (304.0 ypg)
Rushing Offense: 24th (91.0 ypg)
Passing Offense: 13th (213.0 ypg)
First Downs Per Game: t-15th (18.0)
Third-Down Pct.: 5th (47.8%)
Sacks Per Pass Attempt Allowed: 27th (12.24%)
Red Zone TD Pct.: 9th (57.1%)
Scoring Defense: 7th (18.0 ppg)
Total Defense: 28th (381.0 ypg)
Rushing Defense: 19th (138.5 ypg)
Passing Defense: 29th (242.5 ypg)
First Downs Allowed Per Game: 32nd (24.0)
Third-Down Pct. Allowed: 19th (36.0%)
Sacks Per Pass Attempt: 32nd (2.50%)
Red Zone TD Pct. Allowed: t-15th (40.0%)
Turnover Margin: t-9th (+1)
Broncos-
Scoring Offense: 30th (13.0 ppg)
Total Offense: 29th (263.0 ypg)
Rushing Offense: 27th (81.5 ypg)
Passing Offense: 21st (181.5 ypg)
First Downs Per Game: t-30th (13.0)
Third-Down Pct.: 29th (23.3%)
Sacks Per Pass Attempt Allowed: 9th (5.19%)
Red Zone TD Pct.: 32nd (14.3)
Scoring Defense: 10th (19.5 ppg)
Total Defense: 9th (277.5 ypg)
Rushing Defense: 23rd (143.5 ypg)
Passing Defense: 4th (134.0 ypg)
First Downs Allowed Per Game: t-13th (17.5)
Third-Down Pct. Allowed: 15th (32.0%)
Sacks Per Pass Attempt: 13th (8.89%)
Red Zone TD Pct. Allowed: t-8th (33.3%)
Turnover Margin: t-28th (-3)
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
- After catching two touchdown passes in the Bucs' season opener, wide receiver Mike Evans has now scored 590 points in his career. That leaves him just two behind former kicker Martin Gramatica (592) for the all-time scoring lead in Buccaneers history.
- With those two touchdown catches, Evans tied the Raiders' Davante Adams for 12th place on the NFL's all-time list in that category with 96. Evans needs three more scoring grabs to tie Don Hutson (99) for 11th place on that list.
- When linebacker Lavonte David takes his first snap on Sunday against Denver he will have played in 184 regular season games for the Buccaneers. That will move him past former tackle Paul Gruber for the fourth most games played in franchise history. Assuming he starts the game as usual, David will also pass Gruber for the third most games started in team annals.
- David also has 33.5 career sacks and needs 1.5 more to pass Chidi Ahanotu (34.5) for seventh place in franchise history.
NOTABLY QUOTABLE
- Head Coach Todd Bowles on what's impressed him the most about the Bucs' 2-0 start: "The biggest thing was the chemistry and the culture when we got back to training camp. Like I said before, it helped us going through a hostile environment and pull out a game like this, and it started back in the spring, it started in training camp. We just have to keep building that while we clean up our mistakes."
- Quarterback Baker Mayfield on his communication with C Graham Barton in the loud environment of Ford Field: "Graham is a really smart player. Obviously, each game, each rep, he's going to get better and better with all the looks he's going to see. He's just going to put that in the mental bank. But, yeah, especially in an environment like that, I thought Graham played really well and handled the communication well. That's not easy to do for your second career game at center in the NFL."
- Cornerback Zyon McCollum on getting his first career interception against the Lions, and almost getting two in one game: "It's just the start. I want to get six, of course, so it makes me even more excited to get the next one. Whenever the ball is finding you, you're doing good things. I'm just going to continue to be in the right spots and let the ball find me. I'm not focusing out there on trying to make too [many] plays – I'm just doing my job and letting the game come to me."
- Linebacker SirVocea Dennis on showing off his coverage ability: "It was something I focused on coming to the Combine, coming out of college, just because people really hadn't seen me much in coverage. I wanted to change that a little bit, so I just worked on that a lot. And then also coming to this defense with Bowles, he harps on a lot of coverage things, a lot of details, a lot of small things. I try to add that to my game while I can and just become a complete linebacker."
- Bowles on what he's seen from Denver's rookie QB Bo Nix: "I mean he's fast, he can scramble out of the pocket, he can definitely throw the deep ball. He's quick, he knows his reads and he knows the offense."
