Lions vs. Bucs preview: Playoffs: 2nd Round ( 2023 ).

[D6]

Detroit Lions predictions vs. Bucs: Tampa Bay a tough but winnable matchup at home

...........

The Bucs have struggled to generate a pass rush when they don't blitz. Their edge rushers aren't even close to the level that they had in the 2020 season when they went on to win the Super Bowl. I'm expecting Todd Bowles to call blitzes repeatedly and blitzes that will vary greatly. I'm cautiously optimistic that the Lions Offense will handle the collective blitzes by the Bucs, favorably.

[D6]

Lions' Sam LaPorta Active, James Houston Inactive against Bucs


.........

Not much has changed from the Lions Inactive List from the 1st Round Playoff game vs. the LA Rams.

If the Lions win today, it remains to be seen if James Houston will be Active for the NFC Championship Game in San Francisco next Sunday?

Like in the Rams playoff game, I'm concerned that the Lions have enough pass rush fire power on the edges.

[D6]

Bucs inactives list for Divisional Round game vs. Lions

........

My prediction for the game is Lions 27, Bucs 20.

[D6]

Lions vs. Buccaneers: Last-minute thoughts and final score prediction

........

One thing in particular that stood out from the Lions win in Tampa back in October is that the Bucs starting Offensive Tackles are very good Pass Blockers and the overall strength of their Offensive Line. LT Tristan Wirfs looked like a Pro Bowl caliber player. RT Luke Goedeke did a very good job protecting Baker Mayfield in that game. The Bucs interior of their Offensive Line is vulnerable though.

K.J. Britt has been a started over Devin White in at least some games late in the season. White has more speed and overall big play ability. Britt is a more reliable tackler and overall LB.