Denver Broncos Face Off Against the Undefeated Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Week 3 Showdown Preview

The Denver Broncos are heading into Week 3 of the 2024 NFL season with a determined mindset as they travel to Tampa Bay to face the undefeated Buccaneers. After dropping their first two games of the season, Denver is still searching for their first win. With a tough road game ahead, this matchup will be critical for the Broncos, as they aim to turn their season around against a strong Buccaneers team, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield.

The Buccaneers, off to a 2-0 start, will present a significant challenge for Denver. Tampa Bay’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, with Mayfield playing some of his best football. His passer rating of 129.1 currently ranks as the second highest in the NFL, and his five passing touchdowns tie him for first in the league. The Broncos’ defense, which has shown signs of improvement, will have its hands full as it tries to disrupt Mayfield’s rhythm and slow down the Buccaneers' star receivers, Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

Key Defensive Matchups for Denver

Denver’s defense will need to step up in a big way on Sunday to stop Tampa Bay’s offensive attack. Cornerbacks Pat Surtain II and Riley Moss will play a crucial role in containing Evans and Godwin, two of the league's most dangerous wide receivers. Surtain has already shown he can compete with top talent, and his performance will be key if the Broncos want to keep the Buccaneers' explosive passing game in check.

On the defensive line, Zach Allen has been a standout player for the Broncos. Allen, who played an impressive 92 percent of the team’s defensive snaps in Week 2, recorded four tackles and a sack in Denver’s previous game. The Broncos will need Allen to continue his dominance and apply pressure on Mayfield if they hope to slow down Tampa Bay's offense.

However, Denver's defense is not at full strength. The Broncos have ruled out outside linebacker Baron Browning due to a foot injury, along with safety JL Skinner, who is dealing with an ankle issue. Despite these setbacks, the return of defensive end John Franklin-Myers and safety Brandon Jones, both now full participants after recovering from injuries, should provide some much-needed support.

The Broncos’ Offensive Goals

On the offensive side of the ball, Denver is looking to create some momentum. Quarterback Bo Nix has shown flashes of potential in his early NFL career, but the team needs more consistency in the red zone if they want to turn close games into wins. Nix will look to continue building his connection with wide receiver Josh Reynolds, who leads the team in receiving yards this season. Reynolds has been a bright spot for the Broncos' offense, and he’ll likely be a key target once again this week.

There’s also hope that wide receiver Devaughn Vele, who missed Week 2 due to injury, will return to action. Vele led the team in receptions in Week 1 and could provide an additional spark to Denver’s passing game. His presence would give Nix another reliable option and help open up the field against a strong Buccaneers defense.

Special teams have also been a highlight for Denver this season, with punter Riley Dixon downing punts on the 1-yard line in back-to-back games. Special teams play like this can help swing field position and give the Broncos' defense a better chance to contain Tampa Bay's offense.

Buccaneers’ Key Injuries

The Buccaneers have injury concerns of their own heading into this game. Tackle Luke Goedeke, defensive lineman Calijah Kancey, and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. have all been ruled out. These injuries could weaken Tampa Bay’s protection for Mayfield and make it easier for Denver’s defensive line to get pressure.

Additionally, wide receiver Kameron Johnson and nose tackle Vita Vea are listed as doubtful for the game, while defensive lineman William Gholston and defensive back Josh Hayes are questionable. If these key players miss the game or are limited in their roles, it could give the Broncos an opportunity to capitalize on their absence.

How to Watch the Game

Fans can catch the game live on FOX, with play-by-play commentary from Tim Brando, analysis by Matt Millen, and sideline reporting from Sarah Kustok. If you’re unable to watch on TV, you can stream the game locally on NFL+ using a mobile device. NFL+ subscriptions also offer access to prime-time games, live game audio, and, for Premium subscribers, NFL RedZone and full-game replays.

Conclusion

As the Broncos take on the Buccaneers in Week 3, they’ll need both their defense and offense to fire on all cylinders to secure their first win of the season. Stopping Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers' high-powered offense will be no easy task, but if Denver’s defense can continue to improve and the offense can capitalize on opportunities, the Broncos have a chance to turn the tide in their 2024 season.