The Tampa Bay Buccaneers return home in Week 17 for one of their biggest games of the season as they host the Los Angeles Rams in a matchup that could carry major NFC playoff implications. The storyline entering this game is simple: revenge. The last time they met, the Rams embarrassed Tampa Bay on national television.
Los Angeles controlled the game from the opening quarter, exposed the Buccaneers’ defense, and made life difficult for Baker Mayfield throughout the night. That performance should give Tampa Bay plenty of motivation entering the rematch.
Key Matchups
Zyon McCollum vs. Puka Nacua
Nacua gave Tampa Bay major problems in the previous matchup with his physicality and ability to create separation over the middle of the field. McCollum will need a far more disciplined performance this time around, especially after an inconsistent 2025 season. Limiting yards after the catch against Nacua will be critical.
Tristan Wirfs vs. Jared Verse
Verse has quickly become one of the NFL’s most disruptive young edge rushers with his explosiveness and power off the edge. Wirfs will once again be tasked with slowing down a premier pass rusher in a high-pressure matchup late in the season.
Antoine Winfield Jr. vs. Kyren Williams
The Rams rely heavily on Williams both as a runner and a receiving option underneath. Winfield’s versatility near the line of scrimmage could become extremely important in limiting checkdowns, screen plays, and red zone opportunities for Los Angeles.
Keys to Winning
Handling the Rams’ motion-heavy offense will be critical. Sean McVay’s scheme thrives on forcing communication breakdowns and creating easy throwing windows. The Buccaneers must avoid falling behind early as they did in the previous meeting. Sustaining drives and protecting Baker Mayfield against Los Angeles’ pressure packages will be major priorities. Finally, Tampa Bay needs to play with urgency.
The Rams already embarrassed the Buccaneers once on national television, and with the postseason approaching, this rematch should carry a playoff atmosphere at Raymond James Stadium.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Way-too-early 2026 Bucs game preview: Los Angeles Rams
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
