Week 1 ignited fantasy chatter with a star-studded opening act. Allen carved out a 394-yard, four-TD ceiling day, signaling the Bills as a weekly upside play. McCarthy flashed occasional big plays for Minnesota, adding a rushing TD to his 143 passing yards. Oluokun anchored Jacksonville’s defense with 10 tackles, Boswell drilled a long 60-yard FG and perfect kicks for Pittsburgh, and Kam Johnson sparked TB returns. Landman paced LA’s defense with 10 tackles. Week 1 underscored the margins—kick game, return units, and elite QB ceilings—driving early-season rostering and betting pivots.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made their mark by reaching the playoffs for the fifth straight season and clinching the NFC South title for the fourth time in a row. However, their postseason journey came to a halt in the Wild Card round against the Washington Commanders. Despite facing significant injuries, the Bucs managed to achieve a winning record, finishing slightly above their 2023 season total.

Notably, Tampa Bay transformed its identity this year under first-year offensive coordinator Liam Coen. The Buccaneers' offense surged to a top-five ranking nationally, showcasing impressive stats across various categories, including a third-place finish in overall offense and scoring. The revitalization of their running game, spearheaded by rookie Bucky Irving, significantly contributed to this success, turning the team from one of the league's worst rushing offenses into a formidable unit.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made a significant move by re-signing two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett, who previously played with the team from 2019 to 2023. Barrett, a two-time Super Bowl champion, is set to make an impact once again after leading the NFL with a franchise-record 19.5 sacks in his debut season with the Bucs. His contributions were pivotal in securing the team's second Super Bowl title the following year.

During his tenure with Tampa Bay, Barrett started in 70 games, accumulating impressive statistics that include 45 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and three interceptions. After being released last winter due to salary cap constraints, Barrett signed a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins but announced his retirement before training camp. However, he made the decision to unretire last month, ultimately signing back with the Buccaneers after clearing waivers.

In addition to Barrett's return, the Buccaneers have activated safety Jordan Whitehead from injured reserve, who has been sidelined for the past four games due to a pectoral injury. This activation comes in light of the team placing safety Christian Izien on injured reserve for the same injury. Furthermore, the Bucs have also activated rookie wide receiver Kameron Johnson and elevated punter Jack Browning from the practice squad, enhancing their roster ahead of the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers.

The Dallas Cowboys face potential defensive challenges ahead of their Sunday night game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Micah Parsons has been added to the injury report due to an illness, joining five other players listed as questionable.

Despite concerns, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones expressed optimism about Parsons' recovery. Meanwhile, wide receiver Jalen Brooks has been ruled out after hyperextending his knee during practice.

On the Buccaneers' side, wide receiver Mike Evans is questionable, while several others are ruled out or doubtful, adding to the intrigue of this matchup.