Predicted Stat Line: Buccaneers DB Zyon McCollum vs Cincinnati

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will open the 2026 season Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium.

Zyon McCollum enters the opener facing one of the NFL’s most talented receiving duos. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins will provide a difficult test for Tampa Bay’s secondary.

McCollum has embraced that challenge ahead of Sunday’s matchup. He knows Cincinnati will test the Buccaneers early and believes those opportunities can create turnovers.

Predicted Stat Line for Zyon McCollum vs Cincinnati Bengals

– Tackles: 4-7
– Interceptions: 0-1
– Pass Deflections: 1-2
– Forced Fumbles: 0-1

Key Factors Influencing

– Chase and Higgins should create plenty of opportunities for Tampa Bay’s outside defensive backs.

– McCollum will need to remain disciplined against two receivers capable of creating explosive plays.

– Cincinnati’s passing attack could give McCollum multiple opportunities to make plays on the football.

– McCollum has already identified turnovers as a major goal for Tampa Bay’s secondary.

Final Stat Predictions

– Tackles: 6
– Interceptions: 1
– Pass Deflections: 2
– Forced Fumbles: 0

McCollum has a major challenge waiting for him in the season opener.

Facing Chase and Higgins will require strong coverage and disciplined tackling throughout the afternoon. It also gives McCollum an opportunity to make an immediate impact against Cincinnati’s passing attack.

Prediction: Six tackles, one interception, two pass deflections and zero forced fumbles.