Eagles vs. Buccaneers Preview: Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield Battle for 3-0

The Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers clash in an early-season battle between two undefeated teams.

In a battle of unbeaten teams, the Philadelphia Eagles travel to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in prime time on Monday Night from Raymond James Stadium. 

It hasn't been a dominant start for the defending NFC champions but Philadelphia has gotten the job done in its first two games. The Eagles had some extra days of preparation for MNF, coming off a 34-28 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football at Lincoln Financial Field. 

A slower start can be attributed to the learning curve of having a new offensive coordinator in Brian Johnson and defensive coordinator in Sean Desai. 

Week 2 was a coming out party for Philadelphia running back D’Andre Swift.  The first-year roster member finished with 175 yards on the ground with 28 carries and caught three passes for his quarterback as well. The Eagles offense led the league in rushing touchdowns per game last season, a stat they'd like to continue. 

The Eagles defense hopes to get after Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield, who threw for 317 yards and a touchdown in a 27-17 win over the Chicago Bears in Week 2. In their first few games in the post-Tom Brady era, the Bucs have been a pleasant surprise. 

Tampa Bay's defense pressured Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and Bears quarterback Justin Fields and while keeping both teams under 20 points. 

The Eagles' rushing attack vs. a strong run-stop Bucs defense will be a major factor in this one. 

USA TODAY

RECORDS: Philadelphia Eagles (2-0) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0)

ODDS: Philadelphia is a 5.5-point favorite vs. the Buccaneers.

GAME TIME: Monday, Sept. 25th, 2023 at 7:15 p.m. ET

LOCATION: Raymond James Stadium - Tampa, Fla.

TV/RADIO: ABC, SportsRadio 94WIP

THE FINAL WORD: Coach Nick Sirianni’s message isn’t about celebrating the undefeated start, but getting better in spite of it:

“It’s way easier to correct when you are 2-0 and no one’s feelings are in it,” Sirianni says. "A lot of teams would like to be sitting 2-0. Like I said, when you are in this position, and guys don’t know that we aren’t playing to the best of our abilities, that’s when you can make a lot of growth.”

Follow Bri Amaranthus on Twitter and Instagram