NFL Preview: Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) head to Arlington, Texas, to take on the Dallas Cowboys (6-8) on Sunday, December 22 at 8:20 PM ET at AT&T Stadium. The Buccaneers have appealing momentum coming into this matchup. Current NFL betting odds reveal the Buccaneers as favorites with a point spread at -4.0 (-110).
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Preview
The Buccaneers have found success in their last four games and have that win-streak on the line. Their latest success was a 40-17 outing over the Los Angeles Chargers.
They were down 17-13 at the half before storming back in the second half with two consecutive double-digit quarters. Baker Mayfield had a phenomenal game despite an interception, with 22 of 27 completions totaling 288 yards and four touchdowns.
Their offense more than doubled what the Chargers put up in yardage, as they had 506 yards and 24 first downs. Having possession of the ball for about 37 minutes also helped. They had two turnovers, but also forced two on the Chargers.
The Bucs are fourth in the league when it comes to averaging 28.8 points a game. They rank 19th on defense for allowing 23.3 points a game. This is a solid spread, but their offense cannot suffer many mistakes.
Dallas Cowboys Betting Preview
The Cowboys have gone 3-2 in their previous five games. Their most recent battle was a 30-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers, which put them back on track after a loss.
Cooper Rush had a career-best with three touchdowns, as well as 219 yards and 18 of 29 completions. Rico Dowdle had 25 carries for 149 yards, asserting dominance on the ground. CeeDee Lamb had nine receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown.
They put up 410 yards and 24 first downs but held the Panthers to 235 yards, 16 first downs, and forced four turnovers. This was a statement by their offense, as they were not happy to be considered underdogs against the Panthers.
The Cowboys have been gathering 21.3 points a game and rank 19th in the league. Defensively they rank 30th for allowing 27.1 points a game. Despite this ratio, they looked more appealing for a team that has been plagued with injuries.
Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick
MyBookie has the Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Dallas Cowboys betting odds. Looking at the latest NFL betting odds, the Buccaneers are four-point favorites. In addition, the Bucs have a 70.0 percent chance of winning according to market analysis.
Rush has done a solid job in place of Dak Prescott, but Baker Mayfield has been consistent all season. The Bucs have great momentum against a struggling Cowboys team. Look for the Bucs to cover the spread on the road.