Buccaneers (4-6) at Colts (5-5)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
TV: CBS
Spread (BetMGM):
Colts by 2.5
Buccaneers’ keys to victory: Tampa Bay will need to limit turnovers against an opportunistic Colts defense. QB Baker Mayfield will want to lean on his connection with WR Mike Evans, who will be lining up against inexperienced cornerbacks on the boundary. Keeping RB Rachaad White involved in the passing game will be key to keep Indy’s defense balanced. On defense, DT Vita Vea will need to lead the charge in stopping the run, while DE Shaquil Barrett must get consistent pressure. LB Lavonte David has to continue making plays in the middle of the field.
Colts’ keys to victory: Indy’s offense will need to lead a balanced attack that features RB Jonathan Taylor throughout the game. However, QB Gardner Minshew shouldn’t be afraid to throw against a susceptible secondary. This is especially true when targeting WR Michael Pittman Jr. Getting rookie WR Josh Downs involved from the slot also would give Indy an advantage. Defensively, DT DeForest Buckner will need to lead the pass rush from the interior, while LB Zaire Franklin and CB Kenny Moore II must continue making impact plays at the second and third levels.
Matchup to watch: Colts cornerbacks vs. Buccaneers’ Evans. Evans should be a primary focus for the Colts. Conversely, the Buccaneers need to make sure Evans stays involved throughout the entire game.
Who wins? This game should come down to the wire. Coming off the bye week at home, the Colts find a way to squeak out a win.
Colts, 23-20