The Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers face off under the lights on Monday night at Raymond James Stadium. Both teams come into this game at 4-2, tied for the top spot in their respective divisions, making this matchup critical in shaping the course of their seasons. Baltimore shares the AFC North lead with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Tampa Bay sits atop the NFC South alongside the Atlanta Falcons.
This contest promises to be an offensive showcase, with two of the league’s most productive offenses meeting head-to-head. Both teams rank among the NFL’s top scorers, and with both defenses struggling to contain opposing passers, fans could be in for a high-scoring battle.
Ravens Lean on Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry
The Ravens boast the league’s most productive offense, averaging 453.7 yards per game, led by quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson is having another MVP-caliber season, throwing for 1,529 yards with 10 touchdowns and two interceptions. In addition to his passing prowess, Jackson ranks second on the team with 403 rushing yards and two touchdowns, making him a dual-threat nightmare for opposing defenses.
Baltimore’s ground game is even more potent with the addition of All-Pro running back Derrick Henry. Henry leads the league with 704 rushing yards, eight touchdowns, and 119 carries. He has become the first player since LaDainian Tomlinson in 2005 to score a rushing touchdown in each of his team’s first six games. Baltimore’s run game will be crucial, especially since the Ravens have been dominant against NFC opponents, going 5-0 against the Buccaneers in their last five meetings.
Defensively, Baltimore is formidable against the run, allowing just 59 yards per game, the best mark in the league. The defensive line, led by Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones, and Michael Pierce, has consistently stifled opposing rushing attacks.
Buccaneers Rely on Baker Mayfield and Playmaking Receivers
Quarterback Baker Mayfield has been one of the league’s most productive passers, throwing for 1,489 yards with a league-best 15 touchdowns. Mayfield benefits from the presence of two elite receivers, Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, who are tied for the NFL lead with five receiving touchdowns each. However, Evans is nursing a hamstring injury, and his status will be closely monitored leading up to kickoff.
The Buccaneers have struggled on the ground, but rookie Bucky Irving has emerged as the lead back, rushing for 328 yards. Additionally, second-year player Sean Tucker showcased his versatility with 136 rushing yards and 56 receiving yards in Tampa Bay’s 51-27 victory over the New Orleans Saints in Week 6. However, running against Baltimore’s stout front seven will be a challenge.
Tampa Bay’s defense has room for improvement, especially against the pass, ranking 28th in the league by allowing 252.3 yards per game. Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. is dealing with a foot injury, which could further weaken the secondary.
Prediction: Ravens Outlast Buccaneers in a Shootout
Both offenses have the firepower to make this a high-scoring affair, and with both defenses struggling to contain the pass, expect big plays throughout the game. Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry give the Ravens a distinct edge, particularly with Tampa Bay missing key contributors like Evans.
We predict Baltimore will win a close, high-scoring game, 34-30, covering the -3.5 spread. With both teams capable of putting up points, the over on the 49.5-point total also looks like a strong bet.
