Bucs Gameday

Projecting Tampa Bay Buccaneers' NFL Playoffs Opponent in the Wild Card

Congratulations Bucs fans, Your Tampa Bay Buccaneers have punched a fourth straight ticket to the NFL playoffs. But, who will they play next week during wild card weekend?

Cody Haynes

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Philadelphia Eagles

This is the most likely option. If the Eagles win today against the Giants and the Cowboys take care of business against the Commanders, the Reigning NFC champion Eagles will travel to Tampa in the first round of the playoffs.

The Buccaneers played the Eagles in week three of the regular season and lost 25-11. The Eagles looked very good at the time but have slowed down since then, losing four of their last five games. The Bucs however have won five of their last six.

If the Bucs want a shot at winning this game, they need to get back to playing like they were during their four-game win streak. The offense was clicking in every way and the defense began to look like a shadow of what they used to be in previous years. The Bucs overall would need a better game plan this time around to succeed against the Eagles. Even though the Eagles have been playing a bit sloppy, the team cannot discount their ability to play a complete game. The Eagles are a different breed in the playoffs.

Dallas Cowboys

Revenge game? It's possible. I'm sure we all remember how frustrating last season's first-round game against the Cowboys was. I'm sure the players didn't forget either. If the Cowboys somehow lose against the Commanders and the Eagles win, The Bucs will get the opportunity to put last year's playoff matchup far behind them.

The Cowboys have been very good this season, especially late. They have put themselves in a position to clinch their division with a win after It seemed like the Eagles had it locked up for most of the season.

If the Bucs get the Cowboys next week, they will need to come up with a better game plan offensively. The Cowboys defense is pretty good and the Bucs have been playing very flat. It would be wise to exploit their weaknesses and utilize their star players in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Continue to let Rachaad White make plays in space. Defensively, the team's pass rush needs to get to Dak Prescott and make him uncomfortable so he can't get the ball to his star receiver Ceedee Lamb who has been phenomenal lately. The rush defense gave up way too many yards on the ground to Carolina. The Cowboys have a very good running back in Tony Pollard. A great game plan would be essential to beat a red-hot Cowboys squad. 

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Cody Haynes
CODY HAYNES

Having immersed myself in Buccaneers coverage for the past six years, my football analysis journey has been exhilarating. Currently, on the path to my third degree in Media Production Management and Technology at the esteemed University of Florida, I'm arming myself with a comprehensive skill set to revolutionize sports journalism. During my time on air with 102.5 The Bone, I delved deep into the intricacies of fantasy football, offering listeners invaluable insights. Back in college at SPC, I took the reins of my own radio show, fine-tuning my broadcasting skills and building a dedicated audience. As I step into the realm of writing for Bucs Gameday, I'm eager to bring my wealth of experience and passion for the game to the forefront. Anticipate nothing less than meticulously crafted articles, combining seasoned wisdom with fresh perspectives, as I dive headfirst into the vibrant world of Buccaneers reporting. Let's make every word count.