The opening betting lines have the Detroit Lions as big favorites over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in week 2.
In Week 1 of the 2024 NFL regular season, the Detroit Lions took on the Los Angeles Rams, and while it took overtime, they were able to secure the victory, just like they did last January in the Playoffs. In Week 2, another former Playoff foe is coming back to Ford Field, as the Lions prepare to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hoping to once again repeat what they accomplished in last year’s playoffs.
Despite the Bucs’ convincing 37-20 win over the Washington Commanders in the season opener, the good folks over at Fan Duel Sportsbook, have set the opening betting line with a heavy lean toward Detroit, as the Lions open Week 2 as 6.5-point favorites.
While the Lions’ defense struggled to defend the Rams’ fast-paced death-by-a-thousand-cuts offense, the Bucs run a more traditional scheme, which Detroit should match up better against. That being said, the Bucs are flush with offensive talent. Baker Mayfield returns to quarterback the offense and with receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and third-round rookie Jalen McMillan at his disposal—all three caught touchdown passes against the Commanders—they can put points on the scoreboard.
The Bucs defense is equally as talented but they are also dealing with some injuries to key players. Starting defensive linemen Calijah Kancey and Logan Hall missed the game, starting safety Antoine Winfield was spotted in a walking boot after the game, and the Bucs lost three of their four corners to injury during the game, forcing them to rely on safeties to play out of position at outside corner.
While it’s a bit of a surprisingly large opening betting line, the Lions did beat a tougher opponent in Week 1, are healthy overall, and it appears they will also finally see DJ Reader return to the field. The Lions are also a much more physical team than Washington and could give the Bucs problems like they did last season—when they beat the Bucs twice.
