Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/15/2024 4:25 PM EST

We have your Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hit the road to face the Los Angeles Chargers.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Tampa Bay Buccaneers +135 (Caesars) / Los Angeles Chargers -150 (BetMGM)
Best Spread Odds: -3.0 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers -115 (bet365) / Los Angeles Chargers -105 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 45.5 - Under -110 (bet365) / Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 12/15/2024
Time: 4:25 PM EST
Location: SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)
TV: FOX

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers Preview

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Los Angeles Chargers are set to clash in a pivotal Week 15 matchup at SoFi Stadium, with both teams eyeing crucial playoff positions. The Chargers, currently holding an 8-5 record, are in pursuit of a wild card spot in the AFC, while the Buccaneers, at 7-6, are leading the NFC South and looking to solidify their playoff standing.

Los Angeles enters the game as a 3-point favorite, a testament to their strong defensive performances this season. The Chargers have allowed the fewest touchdowns in the NFL, with only 21 conceded, and have been particularly stingy in the red zone, giving up just 13 touchdowns. Their ability to limit opponents' scoring opportunities will be crucial against a Buccaneers offense that ranks fifth in the league, averaging 27.9 points per game.

Quarterback Justin Herbert, despite nursing a left leg and ankle injury, is expected to lead the Chargers' offense. Herbert's resilience has been a hallmark of his season, having played through a severe high-ankle sprain earlier in the year. His connection with wide receiver Ladd McConkey will be vital, especially if the Chargers are to exploit a Buccaneers defense that has struggled with injuries, including the absence of All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr.

On the other side, the Buccaneers are riding a three-game winning streak, with quarterback Baker Mayfield orchestrating the offense. Despite throwing four interceptions over the past two weeks, Mayfield has managed to keep Tampa Bay in control of the NFC South. The Buccaneers' offensive line, led by All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs, will need to provide Mayfield with ample protection against a formidable Chargers pass rush.

Defensively, the Buccaneers face challenges with injuries to key players, including safety Mike Edwards and running back Bucky Irving. However, their recent performances have shown resilience, with rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan stepping up in the absence of Chris Godwin. The Buccaneers' ability to adapt and find new playmakers will be tested against a Chargers team that has been dominant at home.

This matchup promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams aware of the playoff implications. The Chargers' defensive prowess and home-field advantage make them a formidable opponent, but the Buccaneers' recent form and offensive firepower ensure they will not be easily outdone. As the game unfolds, the battle between Herbert and Mayfield will be a focal point, with each quarterback looking to lead their team to a crucial victory.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Against the Spread

As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers, the betting landscape presents an intriguing opportunity for those looking to back the Buccaneers against the spread. Despite being 3-point underdogs, the Buccaneers have several factors working in their favor that could see them cover the spread in this pivotal matchup.

Firstly, the Buccaneers are riding a wave of momentum, having won three consecutive games to seize control of the NFC South. This streak has not only boosted their confidence but also demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure, a crucial trait as they head into a game with significant playoff implications. Baker Mayfield, despite recent struggles with interceptions, has been instrumental in orchestrating the Buccaneers' offense, which ranks fifth in the league with an average of 27.9 points per game. His ability to connect with emerging playmakers like rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan, who has stepped up in the absence of Chris Godwin, adds a dynamic element to their attack.

Moreover, the Buccaneers' offensive line, anchored by All-Pro left tackle Tristan Wirfs, provides a solid foundation for Mayfield to operate against a formidable Chargers pass rush. This protection will be vital in allowing Mayfield to exploit any weaknesses in the Chargers' defense, which, while strong, has shown vulnerability against high-powered offenses. The Chargers have allowed 30 points to Lamar Jackson and 27 points to Joe Burrow, indicating that a well-executed offensive game plan by the Buccaneers could yield similar results.

Defensively, while the Buccaneers face challenges with injuries to key players like Antoine Winfield Jr. and Mike Edwards, their resilience has been evident in recent performances. The Chargers, despite their defensive prowess, have shown susceptibility to high-scoring games, and the Buccaneers' ability to adapt and find new playmakers will be crucial in exploiting this.

Additionally, the Buccaneers' recent history of performing well in high-stakes games, particularly in the latter part of the season, cannot be overlooked. Their reputation for winning down the stretch, coupled with the Chargers' tendency for late-season collapses, further strengthens the case for backing the Buccaneers against the spread. With the playoff race intensifying, expect the Buccaneers to bring their A-game to SoFi Stadium, making them a compelling pick to cover the spread in this Week 15 showdown.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers Top Player Prop Picks

Justin Herbert Over 1.5 Passing TDs +104 (Caesars)

Justin Herbert has been a resilient force for the Chargers, playing through injuries and still delivering impressive performances. Despite nursing a left leg and ankle injury, Herbert's determination to play and his ability to connect with key receivers like Ladd McConkey make the over on 1.5 passing touchdowns an enticing pick. The Buccaneers' defense, while resilient, is dealing with significant injuries, including the absence of All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. This could provide Herbert with opportunities to exploit the secondary and find the end zone multiple times. Given the Chargers' need to secure a playoff spot and Herbert's track record of stepping up in crucial games, betting on him to surpass 1.5 passing touchdowns offers value.

Baker Mayfield Over 1.5 Passing TDs +110 (BetMGM)

Baker Mayfield has been instrumental in the Buccaneers' recent three-game winning streak, despite some struggles with interceptions. His ability to lead a high-scoring offense, which ranks fifth in the league with an average of 27.9 points per game, suggests that he can surpass the 1.5 passing touchdowns line. The Chargers' defense, while formidable, has shown vulnerability against top-tier quarterbacks, allowing 30 points to Lamar Jackson and 27 to Joe Burrow. With emerging playmakers like Jalen McMillan stepping up in the absence of Chris Godwin, Mayfield has the weapons to find the end zone multiple times. The Buccaneers' offensive line, led by Tristan Wirfs, should provide Mayfield with the protection needed to exploit any defensive lapses by the Chargers.

Cameron Dicker Over 1.5 Field Goals Made -145 (BetMGM)

Cameron Dicker has been a reliable kicker for the Chargers, and with the team's strong defensive performances, field goals could play a crucial role in their scoring strategy against the Buccaneers. The Chargers have been effective in limiting opponents' touchdowns, which could lead to more field goal opportunities for Dicker. Additionally, the Buccaneers' defense, while dealing with injuries, has shown resilience, potentially forcing the Chargers to settle for field goals in the red zone. Given the high stakes of this matchup and the Chargers' need to capitalize on every scoring opportunity, betting on Dicker to make over 1.5 field goals is a solid choice.