Bucs Predicted to Fall Short in NFC South Race

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers , aiming for a return to the top of the NFC South, received eight votes from analysts to win the division in the NFL 's 2024 playoff predictions.

Despite the support, the Buccaneers are still predicted to miss the postseason, with the Atlanta Falcons favored to clinch the divisional crown.

According to NFL.com, 20 out of 29 participating analysts picked the Falcons to win the NFC South, following the arrival of quarterback Kirk Cousins and head coach Raheem Morris in Atlanta.

The Buccaneers, who garnered eight votes from analysts including Keegan Abdoo, Jeremy Bergman, Tom Blair, and Adam Rank, finished second in the divisional predictions. However, with the NFC North and West teams dominating the wild-card spots, only one representative from the NFC South is expected to reach the playoffs.

This projected outcome means Tampa Bay will have to defy expectations to secure a postseason berth. The competition within the division has intensified, with Atlanta's bolstered roster positioning them as favorites. Yet, history suggests that the champion of the NFC South often makes noise in the playoffs, having won at least one postseason game in 11 of the past 15 seasons.

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For the Buccaneers, overcoming these odds will require maximizing their opportunities and finding consistency throughout the season. As the regular season approaches , Tampa Bay must focus on building momentum early to challenge the Falcons and keep their playoff hopes alive.

While the analysts' predictions may not favor the Buccaneers, the team has the potential to surprise many and fight for their spot in the postseason.