Tampa Bay (8-6-0) at Dallas (6-8-0)
- When: Dec 22 2024, 8:20 PM
- Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
- Where to watch: NBC
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys
Moneyline
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -220
Dallas Cowboys +180
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys
Point Spread
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3.5 (-120)
Dallas Cowboys 3.5 (EVEN)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Dallas Cowboys
Total
Over 47.5 (-110)
Under 47.5 (-110)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Tampa Bay: Baker Mayfield
Dallas: Cooper Rush
Team Stats
| Buccaneers | Cowboys | |
| 8-6 | Record | 6-8 |
| 5-2 | Away & Home | 1-6 |
| 9-5-0 | ATS | 5-8-1 |
| 9-5-0 | O/U | 9-5-0 |
Last Matchup:
DAL 31-14, January 16th, 2023
Game Preview
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, riding a four-game winning streak, aim to solidify their NFC South lead and continue their playoff push with a pivotal matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Cowboys face a must-win scenario to keep their slim postseason hopes alive.
Buccaneers Momentum:
Tampa Bay (8-6) sits atop the NFC South, holding a one-game lead over the Falcons and recently claiming the NFC’s third seed after Seattle’s loss to Green Bay. The Bucs’ offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 32.8 points per game over their winning streak, including a dominant 40-17 victory over the Chargers.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield, named NFC Offensive Player of the Week, leads an offense that has excelled both on the ground and through the air. Mayfield has thrown for 3,617 yards and 32 touchdowns this season, ranking in the top five across multiple passing categories. With the protection of elite left tackle Tristan Wirfs, Mayfield has been difficult for defenses to pressure.
Wide receiver Mike Evans, coming off a two-touchdown performance, continues to be a key weapon, while running back Rachaad White powers a balanced rushing attack. Tampa Bay’s defense, though, faces some injury concerns, with safety Antoine Winfield Jr. ruled out and several others questionable.
Cowboys’ Struggles:
Dallas (6-8) has won three of its last four games, but their playoff chances are dwindling. With just a 1% shot at the postseason, per projections, the Cowboys face immense pressure to win out. Their defense, particularly against the run, has been a glaring weakness, allowing 136.1 rushing yards per game (29th in the NFL) and a league-worst red-zone defense (73.3%).
The Cowboys’ secondary has also been hit hard by injuries, including the loss of Trevon Diggs for the season. Linebacker Micah Parsons, with 8.5 sacks this year, will be critical in applying pressure on Mayfield to compensate for their depleted defensive backfield.
Key Matchups:
– Buccaneers’ Offense vs. Cowboys’ Defense: The Bucs rank fourth in rushing yards per game (144.4) and second in yards per carry (5.2). This spells trouble for a Cowboys defense that has struggled to stop the run and faces an explosive Tampa Bay offense capable of dominating on the ground and through the air.
– Cowboys’ Pass Rush vs. Buccaneers’ Offensive Line: While Parsons leads Dallas’ pass rush, Tampa Bay’s offensive line, anchored by Wirfs, has been stellar in protecting Mayfield. The Cowboys must find ways to disrupt the pocket if they hope to slow Tampa Bay’s offense.
– Dak Prescott vs. Buccaneers’ Secondary: With the Bucs dealing with injuries in their secondary, Prescott must take advantage of potential mismatches. However, inconsistent offensive performances have plagued Dallas this season.
Betting Trends:
– Buccaneers: 5-1 ATS in their last six games and 4-1 ATS against NFC East opponents.
– Cowboys: 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games and 1-8 ATS in their previous nine home games.
Prediction:
The Buccaneers have the momentum, offensive firepower, and defensive consistency to exploit the Cowboys’ vulnerabilities. Tampa Bay’s ability to run the ball effectively and capitalize on Dallas’ defensive lapses should pave the way for a decisive victory. Expect Mayfield and Evans to connect early and often, while the Cowboys’ offensive struggles persist.
NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Tampa Bay 26-20
Expert Pick: Tampa Bay -3½ (-120) & Under 47½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $350
- NFL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
