Game Details
Las Vegas Raiders (2-10 SU, 5-7 ATS) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS)
NFL Football Week 14
Date/Time: Sunday, December 8th, 1:00 PM ET
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
TV: Regional Broadcast
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Tampa Bay -7 / Las Vegas +7
Money Line: Tampa Bay -300 / Las Vegas +240
Over/Under Total: 46.0
The Raiders head into Week 14 with rookie QB Aidan O'Connell building momentum, as TE Brock Bowers emerges as his favorite target alongside reliable WR Jakobi Myers. Tampa Bay looks to stay afloat in the NFC South, but their defensive struggles make this a dangerous spot for the Bucs.
Game Overview
The Las Vegas Raiders' season has been disappointing in the win column, but signs of growth on offense and defense are evident. Aidan O'Connell shined last week against Kansas City, throwing for 340 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Brock Bowers continues to establish himself as the go-to target for O'Connell, consistently creating mismatches over the middle. Jakobi Myers has also developed strong chemistry with O'Connell, providing a reliable presence on the outside.
On the defensive side, the Raiders' run defense has been dominant, ranking 9th in the league at just 4.3 yards per carry allowed. Over the last four games, they've held three opponents under 82 rushing yards. Their pass defense has been equally impressive, ranking 6th in yards per completion (9.2) and 11th in yards per attempt (6.0)—a significant edge against Tampa Bay's pass-heavy attack.
Tampa Bay has been inconsistent offensively, averaging just 3.7 yards per carry (24th in the league). Baker Mayfield has done his best to keep the offense afloat, but the Bucs struggle to find balance. Defensively, Tampa ranks 30th in passing yards allowed (258.2 YPG) and has been particularly vulnerable to tight ends and slot receivers.
Key Matchups and Analysis
Brock Bowers and Jakobi Myers vs. Tampa Bay Secondary
Bowers is quickly becoming a rising star, showcasing elite athleticism and route running. He'll pose serious problems for Tampa Bay's linebackers and safeties, especially in the middle of the field. Tampa allows 10.1 yards per completion and struggles to defend tight ends. With O'Connell targeting Bowers often, look for big gains down the seams.
Jakobi Myers complements Bowers perfectly, giving O'Connell a reliable outside target to exploit Tampa's porous secondary, which ranks 30th in yards allowed per game.
Raiders Run Defense vs. Tampa Bay Rushing Attack
Tampa Bay's run game has been a liability, averaging only 3.7 yards per carry (24th). The Raiders' defensive line has been rock solid, ranking 9th in yards per rush (4.3). Without a strong run game to lean on, Baker Mayfield will have to shoulder the offensive load—playing into the Raiders' defensive strength against the pass.
Bucs' Offensive Line vs. Raiders Pass Rush
While Las Vegas doesn't rack up sacks (1.0 per game, 29th), their ability to force quick throws and limit big plays has been key to their pass defense success. If the Raiders can create pressure and disrupt Mayfield's timing, the Bucs' offense could stall.
Situational Angles
- The Raiders are 5-7 ATS but have covered in recent close losses to elite teams like the Chiefs and Ravens.
- Tampa Bay is 3-3 ATS at home, but they haven't dominated an opponent their since September.
- Las Vegas' improving defense and O'Connell's rise makes them a live underdog, even on the road.
Betting Pick and Rationale
The Raiders have shown legitimate defensive improvements, particularly against the run, and their secondary is capable of keeping Mayfield and the Bucs' passing attack in check. Aidan O'Connell's emergence, coupled with the rise of Brock Bowers and reliable play from Jakobi Myers, gives Las Vegas the weapons needed to exploit Tampa Bay's vulnerable pass defense.
Tampa Bay's inability to establish the run will make them one-dimensional, playing right into the strength of the Raiders' improving defensive scheme. Add in the Bucs' home struggles against the spread, and the +7 for Las Vegas offers excellent value.
The Play: Raiders +7
Prediction: Tampa Bay 20, Las Vegas 19
The Raiders' balanced defensive performance and O'Connell's connection with Bowers and Myers will keep this game close. Expect Las Vegas to hang tough and cover the spread on the road.