Washington (12-5-0) at Tampa Bay (10-7-0)
- When: Jan 12 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
- Where to watch: NBC
Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total
Washington Commanders @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Moneyline
Washington Commanders +130
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -150
Washington Commanders @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Point Spread
Washington Commanders 3.0 (-115)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3.0 (-105)
Washington Commanders @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Total
Over 51.5 (-115)
Under 51.5 (-105)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Key Players:
Washington: Jayden Daniels
Tampa Bay : Baker Mayfield
Team Stats
| Commanders | Buccaneers | |
| 12-5 | Record | 10-7 |
| 5-3 | Away & Home | 5-4 |
| 10-6-1 | ATS | 10-7-0 |
| 11-6-0 | O/U | 12-5-0 |
Last Matchup:
TB 37-20, September 8th, 2024
Game Preview
Jayden Daniels’ rookie season has been nothing short of spectacular, making it easy to see why he views Sunday night’s playoff clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as “just another game.” However, with the stakes at an all-time high, the nerves may kick in once the whistle blows.
The Washington Commanders (12-5) roll into the NFC wild-card matchup riding a five-game winning streak, making this their fourth season in franchise history with at least 12 wins. This success stems largely from Daniels, the dynamic No. 2 overall pick, who threw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns while also rushing for 891 yards and six scores.
Despite the impressive run, Washington hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2005 season when they edged Tampa Bay 17-10. Their last postseason heartbreak came in 2020 at the hands of the Buccaneers in a 31-23 wild-card defeat.
Head-to-Head Recap:
These teams faced off back in Week 1, where Daniels debuted with two rushing touchdowns but failed to throw for any in a 37-20 loss. Baker Mayfield was lights out, completing 24 of 30 passes for 289 yards and four touchdowns. Washington’s defense struggled to contain Tampa’s high-powered offense.
Key Matchup: Washington’s Defense vs. Mayfield’s Attack
Dan Quinn, head coach of the Commanders, hasn’t forgotten how Tampa Bay sliced through his defense. With six wins in their last seven games, the Buccaneers are surging. Mayfield set career highs with 4,500 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, while rookie Bucky Irving added another layer of danger with 1,122 rushing yards and eight touchdowns.
Quinn praised Tampa’s offensive balance, stating, “Mayfield’s aggression combined with their run game makes them extremely hard to defend.”
Offensive Shootout in the Cards?
Both teams feature top-five offenses, with Tampa averaging 29.5 points per game and Washington close behind at 28.5. Mayfield noted, “Whether it’s a shootout or a defensive battle, we’re ready to make the plays that matter.”
Key Injuries and Lineup Notes:
Tampa Bay: Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (knee) and cornerback Jamel Dean (knee) are expected to suit up after missing multiple games. Tight end Cade Otton (knee) and defensive lineman Logan Hall (groin) remain questionable, while Troy Hill (knee, foot) is still out.
Washington: Star cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) returns after a two-game absence. Jamison Crowder (hamstring) is questionable, and tight end Colson Yankoff remains on IR.
Prediction:
Tampa Bay’s offensive firepower, combined with home-field advantage, gives them the edge. However, Jayden Daniels’ dual-threat capability keeps Washington in the mix. If the Commanders’ defense can limit Mayfield’s deep strikes and force turnovers, they could pull off an upset. Yet, with the Bucs’ high-scoring offense firing on all cylinders, Tampa Bay (-3.0) covers in a game that flirts with the over at 51.5.
NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Tampa Bay 34-27
Expert Pick: Tampa Bay -3 (-105) & Over 51½ (-115)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $365
- NFL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
