Raiders Look to Finish Strong in Close Games, Bucs Eye Third Straight Victory

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Week 14 Preview and Analysis

The Las Vegas Raiders head to Tampa Bay for an exciting Week 14 interconference clash against the Buccaneers. Both teams are still fighting for respectability and playoff hopes, making this an intriguing matchup despite neither team being in contention for a postseason spot at this stage. Las Vegas is looking to finish games they’ve lost narrowly, while Tampa Bay is riding high on a two-game winning streak and aiming for a third consecutive victory.

Raiders: Can They Finish Games and Find Their Rhythm?

The Las Vegas Raiders come into this game with a lot of questions after their heartbreaking 19-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs last Friday. Despite holding a slight edge in total offense (434 yards to 329 yards) and leading in time of possession (31:12 to 28:48), the Raiders’ inability to execute in critical moments cost them dearly. Their struggles to close out tight games have been evident throughout the season, and the Chiefs game was a microcosm of their difficulties.

After starting the season 2-0, the Raiders have since lost 10 consecutive games, leaving them with a 2-10 record and eliminated from playoff contention. However, their resilience in games has been notable, often fighting back after early deficits. Las Vegas is ranked 14th in passing offense, with 226.3 yards per game but ranked 32nd in rushing offense, averaging just 78.1 yards per game. Their scoring offense is similarly struggling, sitting at 27th with only 18.6 points per game.

Quarterback Gardner Minshew has had his fair share of struggles this season, posting 9 touchdowns to 10 interceptions with a sack count of 29. He’ll need to make smarter decisions to lead his team past the Buccaneers. The team’s rushing attack, spearheaded by Alexander Mattison, has failed to generate consistent yardage, and with injuries mounting, it remains to be seen how the Raiders will handle a Tampa Bay defense that has proven to be tough in key moments.

The Raiders have a number of players dealing with injuries heading into this matchup. Running back Zamir White (hamstring) and cornerback Nate Hobbs (ankle) are both questionable for Sunday, which could impact the team’s depth and coverage ability. Tight end Justin Shorter (back) and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (ankle) are also on the injury list, further depleting the Raiders’ offensive weapons. Keeping an eye on these developments will be crucial as we get closer to kickoff.

Buccaneers, Riding Momentum into Week 14

After securing a 26-23 overtime win against the Carolina Panthers, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have now won two straight games, and they are looking for a third. Sitting at 6-6, they are tied for first in the NFC South alongside the Atlanta Falcons. The Buccaneers’ offense has been firing on all cylinders recently, especially their passing game, ranked 6th in the NFL with 238.8 yards per game. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has had a solid season, throwing for 3,034 yards with 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, though he has been sacked 28 times.

In their dramatic win against the Panthers, Tampa Bay outgained Carolina in total offense, 445 yards to 367 yards, and held the ball for 39:31 minutes. Despite committing two turnovers, they were able to keep the offense moving, with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin leading the receiving corps. Evans has tallied 521 yards and seven touchdowns, while Godwin has contributed 576 yards and five touchdowns.

However, Tampa Bay’s defense remains a work in progress. Despite a solid showing against Carolina, they rank 25th in scoring defense, allowing 24.7 points per game. Their ability to contain the Raiders’ pass-heavy offense will be critical, especially considering their struggles with pressure up front.

Conclusion

The Buccaneers will likely come out on top, but the Raiders’ ability to stay close in tight games could make this contest closer than expected. Tampa Bay’s defense should find ways to stymie Las Vegas’ passing game, and Baker Mayfield will be able to do enough to secure the win for the Buccaneers in a 24-17 victory.

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