Buccaneers vs. Bears: Five Bold Predictions

None of the guys were right in last week’s bold predictions. James Yarcho came the closest to pulling one out, but Ronald Jones II’s failure to get into the end zone quickly halted any kind of victory celebration.

Will any of the staff get it right this week? Let’s dive into the Week Five edition of bold predictions.

Bailey: In Sunday’s 38-31 victory over the Chargers, the Bucs offensive line didn’t allow a single sack. How does doing that two weeks in a row sound? Look, I know Khalil Mack and a formidable Chicago front seven await Tampa Bay on Thursday night, but we’re going bold, right? Donovan Smith has been playing better as of late, Alex Cappa has been solid and the trio of Ali Marpet, Ryan Jensen and Tristan Wirfs has been phenomenal. So, no sacks allowed... again.

David: Since Bailey stole mine, my bold prediction is Lavonte David will assert his dominance in the NFL in a stadium that has housed many of the league’s best linebackers over the years. Soldier Field will see a two sack performance and at least one takeaway for David on Thursday night.

Evan: I think it’s going to be really hard for both teams to move the ball on offense Thursday night. The Bucs the receivers are beat up and the Bears’ offense is, well, the Bears’ offense. Both defenses know they’ll have to be on their game and the Bucs’ defense will be looking to make up some ground after the Chargers game. Both teams combine for less than 500 total yards of offense in this one.

James: No Chris Godwin. No Justin Watson. No O.J. Howard. No LeSean McCoy. Probably no Leonard Fournette. In the words of Shannon Sharpe, "it ain't no problem." Ronald Jones will go over 100 yards rushing for the second consecutive week and the third time in his career against the Bears.

Jason: The Bears didn’t play well last week against the Colts last week, but the Colts also have the highest rated total defense in the league right now. I actually think the Bears are significantly underestimated.

Unlike James and Bailey, I don’t think lightning will strike the same place twice. I believe the Bucs can be at the same level as the Colts on defense, and they’ll prove it this week. The Bucs defense redeems themselves; they’ll come out strong and have four forced turnovers to help the Bucs pull out the win.

Editor’s Pick by Gil Arcia: There are some pretty good ones this week, gents. I like David’s prediction on David (Funny, two Davids. Never mind... lame dad humor from me), Evan’s is interesting but it means the game could be a snooze fest, James goes ballsy, and Jason is aiming really high. But I’m going with Bailey on this one. I think the Buccaneers offense, despite injuries, is riding a wave of confidence in themselves. Zero sacks allowed is very possible and Tom Brady will help himself stay clean anyways.