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Buccaneers 'Search For Tests' Starts Early on New NFL Schedule

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated May 16, 2025 9:06 AM ET

Given the well-rounded roster, some see the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as capable of contending in the NFC.

Much like last season, the Buccaneers also have their detractors, and it will be up to Baker Mayfield and that high-powered offense, and a defense that has added some nice pieces like Haason Reddick, to slow down some of the better teams in football.

And in the opening stanza of the season, the Buccaneers get their chance to put their NFC credentials on the line.

Tampa's first seven weeks include games against the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and Detroit Lions, which gives it the chance to show what it's made of.

And for NFL.com's Nick Shook, it's going to be a defining period early on for the franchise.

"The Buccaneers' 2024 season ended with a disappointing playoff loss to the Commanders at home," Shook writes. "While they won't get a rematch with Washington in the regular season, they'll have plenty of opportunities to show the rest of the NFL they're on a mission in 2025. Dates with Houston, Philadelphia and Detroit all land within the first seven weeks. If they're searching for tests, they won't have to wait long for them."

So we will get an early look at Tampa Bay's NFC credentials and if the franchise is to be the team some think it can be in 2025, then it must play well against the top dogs in the conference.

Playing just the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and San Francisco 49ers at home during the opening stretch, the Buccaneers' road form will also be tested.

Many are bullish on the Buccaneers after a good offseason and the expectations that come with having a loaded offense and what we think to be an improved defense, but they will once again have to prove themselves to be worthy of NFC contention.

And they get that chance early.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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