The experts have departed the Buccaneer bandwagon yet again. The second quarter of Monday night's game was enough for most to think the FitzMagic is running out. While the Buccaneers will face probably their greatest defensive challenge against the Bears' front seven in particular, they should like their matchups on the perimeter. The Bears' secondary has taken an injury hit, much like the Buccaneers' and with receivers DeSean Jackson, Mike Evans and tight end O.J. Howard not looking like they're slowing down, that will be a battle to watch.
The experts continually cite Chicago linebacker Khalil Mack as the biggest cause for concern for Tampa Bay. While he's certainly disruptive, and the Bears currently rank first in the league in sacks, it comes down to total offense against total defense, in which the Bucs have the advantage. With the league's best total offense, averaging 473.3 yards per game, they'll be taking on the league's fifth-best defense in the Bears. What's more, is that Chicago ranks a little more toward the middle of the pack in passing defense, allowing 223.7 yards per game, ranking them 11th in the league.
Despite how those number stack up, the experts are still pegging the home team to emerge victorious. In fact, ESPN's consensus of writers went so far as being unanimous in picking Chicago. Luckily the Buccaneers are no stranger to the underdog role.
Click the links below to see the full expert picks.
