The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play their 2025 home opener in Week Three when the New York Jets visit Raymond James Stadium on Sunday, September 21. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast locally by FOX.
The Buccaneers are 2-0 to start the season for the fifth year in a row, though they got to that familiar place in more dramatic fashion than usual. After scoring the winning touchdown with 59 seconds left in a 23-20 decision in Atlanta in Week One, they went even farther down to the wire in Week Two. Rachaad White's two-yard touchdown run with six seconds left in Houston gave the Buccaneers a 20-19 win and their first victory in a prime-time setting in three seasons. Tampa Bay will now try to go to 3-0 for the first time since 2005, though the level of difficulty will be raised by key injuries to tackle Luke Goedeke and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey.
The Jets are 0-2 and, after an entertaining and narrow shootout loss to Pittsburgh in the opener were beaten handily at home by the Buffalo Bills last Sunday, 30-10. Quarterback Justin Fields, who had a strong Jets debut with three total touchdowns against the Steelers, suffered a concussion in the fourth quarter against the Bills after completing only three passes. His status will be a key development to monitor in the lead-up to Sunday's contest in Tampa. The Jets may be able to lean on a rejuvenated ground game, however, as Breece Hall is averaging 4.7 yards per carry and New York is sixth in the NFL in rushing yards per game.
Here are four major storylines and four head-to-head player battles to keep an eye on as the Bucs prepare to play their first game in front of the home crowd this season.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's 20-19 victory against the Houston Texans on Monday, September 15th, 2025 at NRG Stadium.
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates a touchdown during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates the game-winning touchdown during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Chris Braswell #43 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13, Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54, and Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Cornerback Kindle Vildor #22 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 and Center Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Defensive Lineman Greg Gaines #96 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrates the game-winning touchdown during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and C.J. Stroud after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Mike Carlson/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0, Outside Linebacker Markees Watts #58 and Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Anthony Nelson #98 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 and Cornerbacks Coach Kevin Ross of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 and Run Game Coordinator/Outside Linebackers Coach Larry Foote of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 and Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Kameron Johnson #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Emeka Egbuka #2 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23, Inside Linebacker SirVocea Dennis #8 and Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 and Tight End Payne Durham #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23, Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 and Cornerback Jacob Parrish #25 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Safety Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Outside Linebacker Haason Reddick #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Defensive Lineman Elijah Roberts #95 and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Rachaad White #1 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 and General Manager Jason Licht after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - General Manager Jason Licht and Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - General Manager Jason Licht, National Scout Andy Speyer and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and General Manager Jason Licht after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 and Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
HOUSTON, TX - September 15, 2025 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Monday Night Football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans. The Bucs won the game, 20-19. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TOP STORYLINES
Battle of Attrition – There are significant and potentially game-altering injury situations on both sides of this battle, beginning with the aforementioned concussion suffered by Fields on Sunday. He will begin the week in the NFL's concussion protocol, and if he isn't cleared in time to suit up against the Buccaneers the Jets would turn the offensive reins over to 15th-year veteran Tyrod Taylor. Taylor is one of the NFL's most battle-tested backup quarterbacks, having started 58games in his career, most recently going 2-3 as a starter for the Giants in 2023. In addition, Pro Bowl edge rusher Jermaine Johnson left Sunday's game against the Bills with an ankle injury, in just his second outing since returning from an Achilles tendon tear suffered last season. Johnson does not have a sack yet this season but has been noticeably disruptive. The Buccaneers' new health concerns are concentrated in the trenches. Already playing without All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs in the first two weeks, the team lost right tackle Luke Goedeke to a foot injury early in Monday night's game. Wirfs could conceivably return to action this week – he started practicing in a limited fashion last week as he returns from July knee surgery, which would help an O-Line that is currently working with four starters out of place. On the other side of the line, pass-rushing interior lineman Calijah Kancey suffered what is reportedly a season-ending pectoral injury against the Texans; Kancey led the Buccaneers last season with 7.5 sacks.
Remaining the Rabbit – The Buccaneers have set the pace so far in the NFC South as they seek their fifth straight division title, but it appears as if the division will be hotly contested in 2025. The Bucs struck the first big blow in Week One by winning in Atlanta, but it was only secured at the end by a missed 44-yard field goal and the two teams appeared evenly matched. Meanwhile, the Falcons followed that game up by going to Minnesota and manhandling the Vikings, 22-6. Bijan Robinson ran all over a good Minnesota defense, gaining 168 yards from scrimmage, and the Falcons' defense most notably got sack contributions from both of their first-round draft picks, Jalon Walker and James Pearce, as well as from free agent addition Leonard Floyd. The Buccaneers and Falcons won't meet again until a Thursday night game in Tampa in Week 15, but they could be jockeying for position in the standings from week to week. Atlanta travels to Carolina in Week Three to take on an 0-2 Panthers team that just put two of its starting offensive linemen on injured reserve and the visitors are likely to be favored in that contest. After two rousing wins on the road, the Buccaneers need to stay hot and defend their home turf against the Jets to maintain their lead in the South.
Where Have the Turnovers Gone? – Through two weeks of action, the Buccaneers are one of six teams in the NFL that have yet to commit a turnover. Tampa Bay is also one of only six teams that have yet to record a takeaway on defense. Only the Buccaneers and Washington Commanders are on both lists. Obviously, avoiding turnovers on offense is a positive development for Baker Mayfield and company, but the lack of takeaways is somewhat concerning. The Buccaneers put a major emphasis on creating more turnovers in 2025 after securing just seven interceptions all of last season, and the results in training camp and in the preseason games were promising. Tampa Bay secured six interceptions in its three warmup games but so far that has not translated to the regular season. As virtually every NFL coach preaches, turnovers are often the difference in a game's outcome; in the past 10 seasons (2016-25), the Buccaneers have a .797 winning percentage when winning the turnover battle, a .514 winning percentage when the takeaways are even and a .206 mark when they're on the wrong end of that equation. Head Coach Todd Bowles felt like the Buccaneers had three passes they could have intercepted in Week One at Atlanta, and linebacker Lavonte David had a pass hit him in the hands and then fall to the ground in the fourth quarter on Monday night, allowing Houston to keep the ball and make a 53-yard field goal. The Jets have committed two turnovers so far this season, both lost fumbles, but have not secured a takeaway on defense. The Bucs haven't needed the assistance of turnovers to win their first two games, but that is unlikely to remain true for an entire season.
Who Will Control the Ground Game? – Both the Buccaneers and Jets are ranked in the top 10in the NFL in rushing yards after two weeks of play. Tampa Bay ranks ninth with 135.0 yards per game and is also fifth in yards per carry at 5.09, continuing their ground game resurgence from 2024 when it set a team record by averaging 5.25 yards per tote. The Jets have rushed for 141.0 yards per game and 4.70 yards per carry so far, ranking sixth and 10th in those categories, respectively. The Bucs 101-yard game against Atlanta in Week One was a bit misleading as Baker Mayfield led the team with 39 rushing yards on five scrambles, but the team's ground game came alive on Monday night in Houston behind the backfield duo of Bucky Irving and Rachaad White. Irving had 71 rushing yards on 17 carries while White added 65 and the game-winning score on 10 rushes. The Buccaneers' offense set numerous team records in 2024 in large part because it was so balanced, as they were the only team in the NFL to finish in the top five in both rushing and passing yards. That formula may be even more necessary in the early part of the 2025 season, as injuries to the offensive line are making it more difficult to buy Baker Mayfield enough time to hit downfield throws. The Jets also have a nice one-two backfield punch in Breece Hall and Braelon Allen, and if Justin Fields can clear concussion protocol he offers a very significant third dimension to that rushing attack. However, the Jets have also suffered a loss up front, as standout guard Alijah Vera-Tucker landed on season-ending injured reserve, causing the team to shift center Joe Tippman to right guard and insert Josh Myers at center. It's too early to know for certain if the strong early results on the ground are sustainable for either the Bucs or the Jets, but whichever team keeps that trend going in Week Three could make that the winning edge.
KEY MATCHUPS
1. Jets C Josh Myers vs. Buccaneers NT Vita Vea
As noted above, former Packer Josh Myers is now the Jets starting center after some shifting caused by Alijah Vera-Tucker's injury. The Jets signed Myers in free agency as a depth piece after he had started 56 games over four seasons for Green Bay, primarily at center. The 6-5, 310-pound Myers is battle-tested and reliable – after missing time with a knee injury in his second season, he started every game but one over the next four seasons in Green Bay – and the early success of the Jets' rushing attack suggests the line hasn't missed a beat since he stepped in as a starter. However, he will have his hands full in Week Three against Pro Bowl nose tackle Vita Vea. Vea is the 350-pound anchor of the NFL's fifth-ranked run defense, which is allowing just 76.5 yards per game and 3.26 yards per carry, and can often be immovable in the middle of the Bucs' front. In 2024, the Buccaneers' defense allowed 3.7 yards per carry on inside runs when Vea was on the field and 4.7 per carry when he was off it. Vea was also second on the team in 2024 with a career-high 7.0 sacks.
2. Buccaneers WR Mike Evans vs. Jets CB Sauce Gardner
In the Bucs' Monday night game in Houston, the Texans chose to have their top cornerback, Derek Stingley, travel with Evans throughout the games rather than playing primarily on one side. Evans still caught five passes for 56 yards, including one crucial gain that put the ball at the Texans' seven-yard line shortly before Rachaad White's game-winning touchdown, but Stingley also had several breakups on quick passes meant for the Bucs' top receiver. Evans has clearly drawn a lot of attention from opposing coordinators in the first two weeks of the season, which has opened up a lot of field for rookie Emeka Egbuka, who has already scored three touchdowns. The Jets may choose to do the same thing with another one of the NFL's best young cornerbacks, Sauce Gardner. Notably, Gardner shadowed the Steelers' top receiver, DK Metcalf, on almost all of his routes in Week One, and Metcalf was targeted just three times on those plays, recording one catch. Gardner was a first-team Associated Press All-Pro in each of his first two seasons after being drafted fourth overall in 2022, and while his 2024 campaign may not have quite measured up to those first two years he appears to be in top form early this season.
3. Jets RB Breece Hall vs. Buccaneers LB Lavonte David
Breece Hall didn't quite make the big leap expected of him in 2024 after he ran for 994 yards and averaged 4.5 yards per carry in 2023 following an injury-plagued rookie season. Still, he recorded another 876 rushing yards, matched his 2024 total with five rushing touchdowns, scored three more times on receptions and averaged a respectable 4.2 yards per tote. Early in the 2025 season, the former second-round pick appears to be back in his 2023 form, with 136 rushing yards and 47 receiving yards through two games, plus a per-carry average of 4.7 yards. In 2023, Hall ranked second in the NFL in yards gained after forcing a missed tackle, with 440. Now in his 14th season, and having just made the 200th start of his illustrious career, Lavonte David remains a key cog in the Buccaneers' generally stout run defense. He has more than 1,600 career tackles and 170 tackles for loss, and he is adept at timing punches at the football at just the right time to force a fumble, which he has done 31 times in his career. Whatever speed David may have lost since his early days in the NFL, he has more than made up for with his well-honed instincts and consistent ability to take the best angle to the ballcarrier.
4. Buccaneers T Tristan Wirfs or C Graham Barton vs. Jets DE Will McDonald
The Buccaneers are hoping that Tristan Wirfs, the only player in NFL history to earn first-team AP All-Pro honors at both left and right tackle, will be able to return to action soon, perhaps even by this week against the Jets. That would provide a huge boost to the team's pass protection after Baker Mayfield was pressured on a high percentage of throws in Weeks One and Two. Last season, Wirfs allowed the second-lowest pressure rate (4.7%) of all NFL left tackles and on four different occasions went an entire game without allowing a single pressure. Huge and strong but nimble on his feet, Wirfs is one of the stiffest challenges for edge rushers across the league, and this week that could become Will McDonald's hill to climb. If Wirfs is not ready to suit up just yet, the job should remain in the hands of second-year man Graham Barton, a 2024 first-round pick who has made the difficult switch from center to left tackle in Wirfs' absence. McDonald leads the Jets through two games with 2.0 sacks and is coming off a breakout 10.5-sack season in 2024. He also tallied 24 quarterback hits last season and has three so far this year. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, McDonald generated 68 quarterback pressures in 2024, the eighth most among all NFL defenders in that season.
