In this key Week 10 matchup, the San Francisco 49ers travel to Tampa Bay to play the Buccaneers. San Francisco (4-4) will celebrate the return of star running back Christian McCaffrey. Our 49ers vs Buccaneers prediction is that underdog Tampa Bay will cover the 6.5-point spread.
The 49ers had their bye week, giving them time to recover from the injuries that have hampered them all season. The Buccaneers lost a tough overtime battle in Kansas City. Despite mediocre records, both teams are still in contention for the playoffs.
Head-to-head, the 49ers have dominated winning 20 of their 27 matchups.
Offshore Odds: San Francisco Favored by Nearly a Touchdown
| Team | Spread | Money Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 49ers | -6.5 (-115) | -290 | O 50.5 (-107) |
| Buccaneers | +6.5 (-105) | +245 | U 50.5 (-113) |
Christian McCaffrey Is Finally Back for San Francisco
Much of San Francisco’s underwhelming 4-4 start to the season is due to McCaffrey’s absence.
His accomplishments include:
- Two-time All-Pro
- Three-time Pro Bowler
- 2023 Associated Press Offensive Player of the Year
- 2023 Pro Football Writers of America Player of the Year
He has missed the entire season with bilateral Achilles tendinitis.
Jordan Mason has been excellent in McCaffrey’s stead with 685 yards rushing on 134 carries. However, losing a versatile star like McCaffrey impacts the entire offense. It has specifically taken a toll on quarterback Brock Purdy.
Purdy’s interception rate in 2024 is higher than it was in 2023. His touchdown numbers are down. He is throwing for fewer yards per completion and yards per game. Some of that can be attributed to losing other offensive stars. Brandon Aiyuk is out for the year after tearing his ACL and MCL.
Tampa Bay Is on a Three-Game Losing Streak
After six games, Tampa Bay sat at 4-2, challenging for the NFC South lead. Since then, they have lost three consecutive tough games to likely playoff teams Baltimore, Atlanta, and Kansas City. Now they get the 49ers with their star running back making his return.
Buccaneers five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Mike Evans has a hamstring issue and is out. Fellow wideout Chris Godwin was lost for the season with a broken ankle.
Their offense has been excellent. They are ranked 10th in the NFL in rushing and fifth in passing. Quarterback Baker Mayfield is on his way to a 4,000-yard passing season and 40 touchdowns.
Fortunately for Tampa Bay, they have a very weak schedule after their Week 11 bye. Even if they lose to San Francisco, they still have a good chance to win 10 games.
49ers vs Buccaneers Prediction: Tampa Bay Will Battle
It is unreasonable to expect McCaffrey to shoulder his normal load. The 49ers have not played consistently well and Tampa Bay has shown fight this season.
Our 49ers vs Buccaneers prediction is for underdog Tampa Bay to keep it close and cover the 6.5-point spread.
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