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The Detroit Lions are now ranked 5th in CBS Sports Power Rankings, and deservingly so. Despite a tough overtime loss to the Seahawks in week 2, they have been dominant. With the Packers loss on Monday night football, the Lions appear to be running away with the NFC North division.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are right behind the Lions in the CBS Sports Power Rankings at 6th! The surprise resurgence of the Bucs with Baker Mayfield at the helm has them at 3-1. The Bucs only loss came in week 3 against the Eagles, one of the premier teams in the NFC.

This will be an exciting matchup between two NFC divisional leaders. Read my prediction, pick, and odds below.

Lions vs. Buccaneers Date, Start Time, And Where To Watch

Date: Sunday, October 15, 2023

Start Time: 4:25  pm ET

Where to Watch: FOX

Lions vs. Buccaneers Odds

Moneyline: Lions -162, Buccaneers +136

Spread: Lions -3, Buccaneers +3

O/U: 43.5

Lions vs. Buccaneers Prediction

The Lions are ranked 6th in overall defense, allowing an average of 293 YPG. They are also ranked 6th in offense, averaging 384 YPG.This team has been dominant on both sides of the ball through week 5. Lions quarterback Jared Goff has been averaging 253 YPG and has a 104 passer rating. David Montgomery has been a monster through week 5 as well. Montgomery averages 93 YPG and has 6 TDs through week 5.

The Buccaneers have a respectable defense, ranking 11th, allowing an average of 319 YPG. Baker Mayfield has been almost as impressive as Goff. Mayfield averages 221 YPG and has a 102 passer rating. Mike Evans has been playing well through week 5 as well. Evans averages 84 YPG and has 4 TDs on the season. If Baker and Evans are able to connect well against the Lions they may be able to come away with a win.

The Lions have faced stronger defenses so far this season. They have victories against the Chiefs, who rank 9th overall in defense. They have also beaten the Falcons who rank 7th in overall defense. The Lions offense has proven to be a dominant force.

When comparing these teams, there are plenty of similarities. The key difference I have found is the Lions’ ability to run the ball. I believe the Lions’ run game paired with their elite defense will be the reason they win this game and cover the -3 spread. 

Lions vs. Buccaneers Best Bet

Lions -3 (-162 @ Draftkings)