Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers : Live Stream, Week-4, Date, Time, Locations 2024
On Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 11:00 PM ET, two NFC powerhouses, the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will face off in what promises to be an exciting NFL showdown. This game will take place at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as the Eagles, fresh off a deep playoff run in 2023, look to assert themselves as one of the top contenders in the NFC. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers, navigating through a post-Tom Brady era, are eager to prove that they remain competitive under a new leadership structure and young quarterback play.
This article will cover every aspect of this thrilling matchup, from where and how to watch the game live on TV and streaming platforms, to a comprehensive preview that includes player analysis, team overviews, odds, predictions, and key matchups. Whether you’re watching through cable or streaming live on services like FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV, we’ve got you covered.
How to Watch Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: TV, Streaming, and Kickoff Time
- Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024
- Time: 11:00 PM ET
- Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
- TV Channel: NBC
- Live Stream Options: FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, NFL+, Peacock
For those looking to catch the game on streaming platforms, both FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV offer comprehensive packages that include NBC, which is broadcasting the game live. Additionally, the game will be available through NFL+ and Peacock for subscribers, offering flexibility for fans without traditional cable access. Both FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV offer free trial periods, making it a convenient and cost-effective way for cord-cutters to enjoy the game.
Preview: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Philadelphia Eagles Season Overview
The Philadelphia Eagles enter Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season with the momentum of a 2023 Super Bowl appearance behind them. Led by head coach Nick Sirianni and star quarterback Jalen Hurts, the Eagles have built a well-rounded, powerhouse team on both sides of the ball. After narrowly missing out on a Super Bowl victory last year, they are widely regarded as one of the favorites to win the NFC and return to the championship game this season.
Jalen Hurts has continued his ascent into NFL stardom, combining his elite athleticism and improved passing ability to become a legitimate MVP contender. His dual-threat capabilities make him one of the most difficult quarterbacks to defend. Hurts has a diverse array of weapons at his disposal, including wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, as well as tight end Dallas Goedert. This trio provides the Eagles with a formidable passing attack, while the offensive line, anchored by veterans Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson, remains one of the best in the league.
The Eagles’ rushing attack, led by running back D’Andre Swift, offers balance to the offense. Swift, who joined the team in 2023, has proven to be a dynamic player, capable of breaking off big runs and contributing in the passing game. His versatility has added another layer to the Eagles’ already potent offense.
Defensively, the Eagles boast one of the most fearsome front sevens in the league. Defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, edge rusher Haason Reddick, and 2024 draft pick Jalen Carter headline a unit that consistently pressures opposing quarterbacks. In the secondary, cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry are tasked with locking down the opponent’s top receivers, making it difficult for opposing offenses to find success in the passing game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Season Overview
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in a period of transition following the retirement of legendary quarterback Tom Brady after the 2022 season. In 2023, the Bucs struggled to find consistent play at the quarterback position, ultimately missing the playoffs. However, heading into 2024, the team has pinned its hopes on quarterback Kyle Trask, who was drafted in 2021 and has been groomed as a potential successor to Brady.
Under head coach Todd Bowles, the Buccaneers have maintained a strong defensive identity, but the offense remains a work in progress. Kyle Trask is surrounded by a mix of veteran playmakers and young talent. Wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin continue to be reliable targets, providing Trask with veteran leadership and two of the best pass-catchers in the league. Meanwhile, rookie wide receiver Trey Palmer has shown flashes of brilliance early in the season and is expected to be a key piece of the Buccaneers’ future.
The running game, led by Rachaad White, provides some balance to the Buccaneers’ offense, though it has struggled to find consistency. White is a versatile back who can catch passes out of the backfield, but the offensive line has been a point of concern, especially when it comes to run blocking.
On the defensive side, Tampa Bay remains formidable. Linebackers Lavonte David and Devin White are the heart and soul of the defense, while the defensive line, featuring Vita Vea and edge rusher Shaquil Barrett, is capable of wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. The secondary, led by Carlton Davis and Antoine Winfield Jr., is young but talented, capable of making plays and shutting down top-tier receivers.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Jalen Hurts vs. Buccaneers’ Linebackers (Devin White and Lavonte David)
- Jalen Hurts’ dual-threat ability will be put to the test against the Buccaneers’ speedy and instinctive linebacker duo of Devin White and Lavonte David. White and David have the speed to track down Hurts when he scrambles and the awareness to cover short passing routes. However, Hurts’ ability to extend plays and attack downfield could stretch the Buccaneers’ defense to its limits.
- Kyle Trask vs. Eagles’ Pass Rush
- Kyle Trask is still finding his footing as a starting NFL quarterback, and he’ll face one of the most dominant defensive fronts in the league. The Eagles, led by Haason Reddick and Fletcher Cox, will look to pressure Trask and force him into quick decisions. How Trask handles the relentless pass rush will be a major factor in whether Tampa Bay can move the ball effectively.
- A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith vs. Buccaneers’ Secondary
- The Eagles’ receiving duo of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith presents a nightmare matchup for any defense. Buccaneers cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Jamel Dean will be tasked with limiting these two elite wideouts. If the Bucs’ secondary can contain Brown and Smith, it will force Hurts to look for other options or rely more heavily on the run game. However, if Brown and Smith can win their individual matchups, it could be a long day for Tampa Bay.
- Rachaad White vs. Eagles’ Run Defense
- Tampa Bay’s running game has been inconsistent, but if they hope to keep pace with the Eagles’ high-powered offense, they’ll need to establish the run with Rachaad White. Philadelphia’s defensive front, led by Fletcher Cox and Jalen Carter, will look to shut down White and force Kyle Trask into third-and-long situations. If White can find success on the ground, it will take pressure off Trask and allow the Buccaneers to control the clock.
- Eagles’ Offensive Line vs. Buccaneers’ Defensive Front
- Philadelphia’s offensive line is one of the best in the NFL, but they’ll face a stiff test against Tampa Bay’s formidable defensive front. Shaquil Barrett and Vita Vea are capable of disrupting any offensive game plan, and the Eagles’ ability to protect Jalen Hurts will be crucial to their success. If Barrett and Vea can generate pressure and collapse the pocket, it could lead to mistakes from Hurts and limit the Eagles’ explosive plays.
Odds and Predictions
As of the week leading up to the game, the Philadelphia Eagles are clear favorites, with the oddsmakers giving them the advantage at home. The Eagles are projected to be around 8.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 48 points, indicating expectations for a relatively high-scoring affair.
- Point Spread: Eagles -8.5
- Over/Under: 48 points
Prediction:
The Eagles come into this matchup as one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL, with a high-powered offense and a defense that can dominate at the line of scrimmage. Jalen Hurts has been playing at an MVP level, and his supporting cast on both sides of the ball makes Philadelphia a tough team to beat at home.
While the Buccaneers have shown flashes of potential, particularly on defense, they are still a team in transition, especially on offense with a young quarterback at the helm. Kyle Trask will face immense pressure from the Eagles’ defense, and it’s unlikely that Tampa Bay will be able to keep pace with Philadelphia’s offense for a full 60 minutes.
Final Score Prediction: Eagles 31, Buccaneers 17
Players to Watch
Philadelphia Eagles
- Jalen Hurts (QB): Hurts has developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, and his dual-threat ability makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Hurts’ ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs will be a key factor in this game, especially against Tampa Bay
Philadelphia Eagles Players to Watch (cont.):
- A.J. Brown (WR): A.J. Brown has become one of the premier wide receivers in the league, providing the Eagles with a deep threat and a reliable target in the passing game. His physicality, route-running ability, and connection with Jalen Hurts make him a vital component of the Eagles’ offense. In this game, Brown will face a tough matchup against the Buccaneers’ secondary, but he has the ability to take over the game if given opportunities.
- DeVonta Smith (WR): DeVonta Smith’s speed and agility complement A.J. Brown perfectly, giving the Eagles two elite receivers who can stretch the field. Smith’s ability to gain separation quickly off the line of scrimmage makes him a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks, and his crisp route-running and reliable hands allow him to be a go-to target in critical situations.
- Haason Reddick (OLB/DE): Reddick has been a force for the Eagles’ pass rush since joining the team. His speed off the edge, combined with his ability to get to the quarterback, will be crucial in this matchup. Tampa Bay’s offensive line has struggled at times, and if Reddick can consistently get pressure on Kyle Trask, it could lead to game-changing plays, such as sacks and forced turnovers.
- Fletcher Cox (DT): The veteran defensive tackle remains one of the most disruptive forces in the NFL. His ability to dominate the interior of the line of scrimmage and stop the run makes him a key player in Philadelphia’s defense. Cox will look to control the line of scrimmage and force the Buccaneers into difficult third-down situations, limiting the effectiveness of Tampa Bay’s offense.
- Darius Slay (CB): Darius Slay is one of the top cornerbacks in the league and will likely be tasked with shadowing Tampa Bay’s top receiver, Mike Evans. Slay’s ability to shut down top receivers in one-on-one matchups allows the Eagles’ defense to be more aggressive in other areas, such as blitzing or doubling other targets. His performance against Evans will be a key factor in how well the Buccaneers’ passing game can operate.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Players to Watch
- Kyle Trask (QB): All eyes will be on Kyle Trask as he continues to develop as the Buccaneers’ starting quarterback. Trask has shown flashes of potential, but this game against the Eagles’ ferocious pass rush will be a significant test of his poise and decision-making. How he handles the pressure from Philadelphia’s defense and whether he can protect the football will be crucial in determining Tampa Bay’s chances of pulling off an upset.
- Mike Evans (WR): Mike Evans has been one of the most consistent wide receivers in the NFL throughout his career, and his size, physicality, and ability to make contested catches make him a tough matchup for any cornerback. Evans will be facing Darius Slay, one of the top corners in the league, in a high-profile battle that could determine the effectiveness of Tampa Bay’s passing attack. If Evans can win his one-on-one matchups, it will give Trask a reliable target to keep the chains moving.
- Chris Godwin (WR): Chris Godwin’s versatility and ability to make plays out of the slot position make him a key part of Tampa Bay’s offense. Godwin is known for his precise route running and strong hands, allowing him to excel in short and intermediate routes. His ability to get open quickly will be important for Kyle Trask, especially if the Eagles are able to generate pressure.
- Shaquil Barrett (OLB/DE): Barrett is Tampa Bay’s best pass rusher and will be a critical player in this game as he looks to disrupt Jalen Hurts’ rhythm. Barrett has the ability to get around offensive tackles with speed and power, and if he can consistently pressure Hurts, it could force the Eagles to alter their game plan. Additionally, Barrett’s ability to set the edge in the run game will be important in limiting Hurts’ ability to scramble and make plays with his legs.
- Vita Vea (DT): Vita Vea is one of the most dominant defensive tackles in the league, and his ability to collapse the pocket from the inside will be crucial for the Buccaneers’ defense. Vea’s size and strength make him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen, and if he can disrupt the Eagles’ running game and create pressure up the middle, it will help the Buccaneers contain Philadelphia’s high-powered offense.
- Antoine Winfield Jr. (S): Winfield Jr. has developed into one of the top young safeties in the NFL. His ability to play both in coverage and near the line of scrimmage makes him a versatile weapon for Tampa Bay’s defense. Winfield will play a key role in trying to limit the Eagles’ explosive passing plays and may be tasked with helping to contain Jalen Hurts when he scrambles out of the pocket.
Injury Updates
Philadelphia Eagles
As of the week leading up to the game, the Eagles have been relatively healthy. However, a few players have been dealing with minor injuries that may affect their status for this matchup. The team will closely monitor key players like offensive tackle Lane Johnson, who has been dealing with a lingering knee issue. Johnson’s availability is crucial to the Eagles’ offensive line, as he is one of the best tackles in the league and plays a vital role in protecting Jalen Hurts. Additionally, running back D’Andre Swift has been managing a minor ankle injury, though he is expected to play.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers have been hit with a few injuries that could impact their performance in this game. Most notably, wide receiver Chris Godwin has been dealing with a nagging hamstring injury. While Godwin has been able to play through it, his effectiveness could be limited if the injury flares up during the game. On the defensive side, linebacker Devin White has been managing a shoulder injury, though he is expected to suit up for the game. His presence is critical for the Buccaneers’ defense, particularly in containing Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ dynamic offense.
Coaching Comparison
Nick Sirianni (Philadelphia Eagles):
Nick Sirianni has rapidly become one of the most respected head coaches in the NFL. Since taking over as the Eagles’ head coach in 2021, Sirianni has transformed the team into a perennial contender in the NFC. His offensive philosophy, which emphasizes creativity, tempo, and versatility, has allowed the Eagles to maximize the talents of players like Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith. Sirianni’s ability to make in-game adjustments and exploit mismatches has been a hallmark of his coaching style. Additionally, his leadership and culture-building have been instrumental in the Eagles’ sustained success.
Defensively, Sirianni has entrusted his coordinator, Sean Desai, with continuing the aggressive, opportunistic style that has been a staple of the Eagles’ identity. Under Sirianni’s leadership, the Eagles have developed a strong team culture, with players buying into his philosophy and delivering results on the field.
Todd Bowles (Tampa Bay Buccaneers):
Todd Bowles is a defensive-minded head coach who has earned respect for his ability to scheme complex defensive game plans. Bowles took over as the Buccaneers’ head coach in 2022 after serving as the team’s defensive coordinator under Bruce Arians. Known for his aggressive, blitz-heavy defenses, Bowles has consistently fielded one of the better units in the league, anchored by stars like Lavonte David, Devin White, and Shaquil Barrett.
However, Bowles has faced challenges in his role as head coach, particularly in transitioning the team from the Tom Brady era. While his defense remains a strength, the Buccaneers’ offense has struggled to find consistency under his tenure. Bowles’ ability to develop Kyle Trask and manage the balance between offense and defense will be key to the Buccaneers’ success in the coming seasons.
Keys to Victory
Philadelphia Eagles:
- Establish the Run: The Eagles’ offense is at its best when they can establish a strong running game. Whether it’s with D’Andre Swift or Kenneth Gainwell, getting the ground game going early will open up the play-action passing attack and allow Jalen Hurts to take shots downfield.
- Pressure Kyle Trask: The Eagles’ defensive line has the ability to dominate games, and pressuring a young quarterback like Kyle Trask will be crucial. If Philadelphia’s pass rush can get to Trask early and often, it could lead to turnovers and prevent Tampa Bay’s offense from finding any rhythm.
- Win the Turnover Battle: The Eagles have thrived on forcing turnovers, and taking advantage of any mistakes by the Buccaneers’ offense will help tilt the game in Philadelphia’s favor. Additionally, Jalen Hurts must continue to protect the football and avoid giving Tampa Bay short fields to work with.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
- Protect Kyle Trask: The Buccaneers’ offensive line will need to have a strong performance against the Eagles’ pass rush. If Trask is under constant pressure, it will be difficult for Tampa Bay to sustain drives and put points on the board.
- Limit Big Plays: The Buccaneers’ defense must limit the Eagles’ ability to make big plays, particularly in the passing game. Carlton Davis and Jamel Dean will have their hands full with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, but if Tampa Bay can prevent explosive plays, they’ll have a better chance of keeping the game close.
- Control the Clock: Establishing a balanced offense with a strong running game will be
