Packers, Buccaneers: Preview, Prediction

The Green Bay Packers enter Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with plenty of pressure, but they also have a chance to right the ship.

At 1-2, the Packers have lost two games by three scores and enter Week 4 with their worst point differential (-35) since 1988. Still, Tampa Bay presents a favorable opportunity for Green Bay to get back on track. The Buccaneers are 0-3 for the first time since 2014 and will turn to undrafted rookie Jalon Daniels for his first NFL start with Baker Mayfield sidelined by a dislocated right thumb.

Green Bay’s defense must take advantage. The Packers should focus on containing Daniels’ mobility, forcing him to win from the pocket and creating obvious passing situations. If they can slow Tampa Bay’s running game early, the rookie could face a long afternoon.

The bigger question remains the Packers’ offensive line. Newly signed Laken Tomlinson is expected to start at left guard, while Kevin Zeitler could see time at right guard. Against a Tampa Bay defense that excels against the run and blitzes heavily, Green Bay must show improvement up front.

Ultimately, the Packers have too much at stake to leave Raymond James Stadium with another loss. Expect the defense to rebound, the offensive line to play better and Green Bay to come away with a much-needed victory.

Prediction: Packers 27, Buccaneers 17

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