The Tennessee Titans (0-0) travel to Raymond James Stadium to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0) in this week’s NFL Preseason opener. While wins and losses may not count for much in August, this matchup offers critical insights into depth charts, coaching strategies, and player momentum. With Cam Ward expected to get meaningful reps and Tampa Bay’s defense still finding its footing, several betting angles are worth exploring here.
Quick Picks:
- Best Bet: Titans +2.5 ★★★★☆
- Top Prop: Cam Ward Over 29.5 Passing Yards ★★★★★
- Value Play: Over 37.5 Total Points ★★★☆☆
Tennessee Titans vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Odds & Line Movement
| Market | Tennessee Titans | Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | +120 | -140 |
| Point Spread | +2.5 (-110) | -2.5 (-110) |
| Total | Over 37.5 (-110) | Under 37.5 (-110) |
Opening Line: Buccaneers -3, Total 36.5
Sharp Money Breakdown: Where the Smart Bets Are Going
When this line opened at Buccaneers -3, I anticipated movement — and we got it. The adjustment to -2.5 reflects early action on Tennessee, especially after reports out of camp highlighted Ward’s impressive sessions with the first team offense. The total also ticked up slightly, indicating expectations for sharper offensive execution or defensive lapses. Preseason totals rarely move without cause, so smart money is clearly leaning in that direction.
Quarterback Matchup: Cam Ward vs Baker Mayfield – Who Has the Edge?
Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward
- No. 1 overall pick making his NFL debut
- Impressive training camp, developing chemistry with Ridley and Lockett
- Expected to play most of the first half according to coach Callahan
- Looking to bounce back after Sunday’s rough practice session
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Baker Mayfield
- Likely to see only one series as an established starter
- Coming off career-best season with 41 TDs in 2024
- Working with new OC Josh Grizzard, though system remains similar
- Recently named to NFL’s Top 100 list at No. 50
QB Edge: Titans (Ward will play more snaps, giving Tennessee advantage through volume)
Defense Comparison: Which Unit Will Step Up?
Tampa Bay’s defense was middle-of-the-pack last season, allowing 22.7 points per game, but excelled against the run (3rd in NFL). Their preseason focus will be testing young secondary players and newcomers to the pass rush. The Titans’ defense, meanwhile, had elite pass coverage (1st in pass yards allowed) but struggled mightily overall, ranking 30th in points allowed. Tennessee’s defensive coaching staff will be emphasizing communication and red zone stops after allowing a league-worst 63% red zone touchdown rate in 2024. With both teams focusing on fixing defensive weaknesses, expect some big plays as coordinators test various personnel groupings.
Key Betting Trends & Team Stats You Should Know
- Tennessee has a new coaching staff under Brian Callahan, increasing motivation for preseason success
- Tampa Bay is 5-3 in preseason games under Todd Bowles
- The Titans were 2-1 in preseason games last year despite their regular season struggles
- The Buccaneers are introducing several new pass-catchers, including rookie WR Emeka Egbuka
- Tennessee’s backup QB Brandon Allen has started 10 regular season games in his career
- The Over is 7-2 in the Buccaneers’ last 9 preseason games
Rookie Spotlight: Cam Ward’s NFL Debut
All eyes will be on Ward, the No. 1 overall pick making his NFL debut. Tennessee’s coaching staff has raved about his arm talent and quick adaptation to the pro game despite a rough practice session on Sunday. Ward has shown particular chemistry with veteran newcomer Tyler Lockett, who praised the rookie’s resilience: “He doesn’t get too high, he doesn’t get too low, he stays level-headed.” Expect Callahan to design a conservative but confidence-building series of plays to showcase Ward’s strengths while protecting him from unnecessary hits.
Raymond James Stadium Factor: What to Expect on Game Day
Raymond James Stadium typically draws decent preseason crowds, but expect a laid-back atmosphere with fans more interested in individual performances than the final score. Weather forecasts call for typical Florida summer conditions – hot and humid with a chance of thunderstorms. Both coaching staffs have already indicated they’ll be conservative with veterans, which means this game will feature extended looks at rookies and bubble players fighting for roster spots. The joint practice between these teams on Thursday may actually feature more intensity than the game itself.
Expert Prediction & Best Bets for Titans vs Buccaneers
Primary Play: Titans +2.5
The Titans have more to prove in this preseason opener, with a new coaching staff and No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward making his debut. Ward is expected to play significant minutes, while the Buccaneers will likely pull Baker Mayfield after just one series. Tennessee’s QB depth chart with Brandon Allen and Tim Boyle provides more experienced backup options than Tampa Bay’s Kyle Trask and Connor Bazelak. Expect the Titans to show more urgency, making them the value play as slight underdogs.
Strong Value Play: Over 37.5 Total Points
Preseason games often feature loose defensive structures and simplified coverage schemes. Both teams have offensive-minded coaches who will want to see skill position players make plays. The Buccaneers struggled with red zone defense last season, and Tennessee’s offense should find opportunities to score. With Tampa Bay’s explosive offensive potential and Tennessee’s focus on getting Ward comfortable in the offense, the over looks appealing, especially with the joint practice already revealing each team’s tendencies.
Worth Considering: Cam Ward First TD Scorer (+1800)
While a longshot, Callahan might design a special package to get Ward a rushing touchdown near the goal line in his debut. The Titans will want to build confidence in their No. 1 pick, and a rushing touchdown would be a perfect momentum-builder. At these odds, it’s worth a small play for a potential big payout.
Top Player Props for Titans vs Buccaneers
| Player | Prop | Odds | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cam Ward (TEN) | Over 29.5 Passing Yards | -110 | ★★★★★ |
| Bucky Irving (TB) | Over 22.5 Rushing Yards | -115 | ★★★★☆ |
| Tyler Lockett (TEN) | Anytime TD Scorer | +320 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Emeka Egbuka (TB) | Over 2.5 Receptions | -105 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Brandon Allen (TEN) | Over 65.5 Passing Yards | -110 | ★★★★☆ |
Final Thoughts: Ward’s Debut Overshadows All Else
This preseason opener is all about Cam Ward and whether the No. 1 overall pick can show flashes of brilliance in his NFL debut. The Titans have been careful not to place too much pressure on him after Sunday’s rough practice, but they need to see him execute against live competition. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay enters with less urgency but will be evaluating key position battles at wide receiver, cornerback, and along the defensive line. With Tennessee’s coaching staff highly motivated to get their program off on the right foot and Ward eager to silence any doubts, expect the Titans to play with more intensity throughout.
Score Prediction: Titans 21, Buccaneers 19
Note: Our projections about who’s playing in preseason are based on the latest updates from beat reporters, coaches, and players. Sometimes, that info changes at the last minute or doesn’t pan out on game day. If you can’t personally confirm who’s suiting up, we recommend keeping your action light—think “beer money” bets only.
Be sure to bookmark our main free picks page every week, where professional handicappers Kevin West and Rich Crew will be giving out winning picks!
