Game preview: Bucs @ Bengals

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face off against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, marking their first test of the 2026 season. Both teams are aiming to return to the postseason after disappointing campaigns in 2025. The Buccaneers have revamped their defense following a 8-9 finish last season, while the Bengals have bolstered their offense with key offseason additions like Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.

For the Bucs, slowing down the Bengals' offense will be crucial, as Burrow returns alongside a strong passing attack. The Buccaneers' new defensive front, featuring Rueben Bain Jr., Yaya Diaby, and Calijah Kancey, will play a vital role in pressuring Burrow and supporting the secondary. Cincinnati's offensive line, now featuring Dexter Lawrence II, Jonathan Allen, and Boye Mafe, will present a significant challenge for the Bucs' defense.

On offense, the Bucs will rely on a healthy Baker Mayfield, protected by Tristan Wirfs, Ben Bredeson, Graham Barton, Cody Mauch, and Luke Goedeke. The addition of Kenny Gainwell provides Mayfield with another receiving option and helps create mismatches. However, Jalen McMillan's potential absence due to a knee injury raises questions about how Mayfield will distribute the football.

The Bengals' defense has undergone substantial changes, making it difficult to rely on their 2025 weaknesses. The Bucs still have several strategies to exploit Cincinnati's secondary, with Emeka Egbuka and Cade Otton providing targets over the middle, while Diontae Johnson and Kenny Gainwell can contribute as effective deep threats.

A high-scoring game is expected, with the Bengals favored by 3.5 points and the over/under set at 50.5 points. Tampa Bay aims to start the season well, as they have won five consecutive Week 1 games entering this Sunday's matchup.