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Two of the NFC’s top teams collide as the San Francisco 49ers (4-1) face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-1) on Sunday, October 12, at Raymond James Stadium. Both clubs enter with legitimate playoff aspirations but for different reasons.
San Francisco had extra time to prepare after edging the Los Angeles Rams 26-23 in overtime on Week 5 Thursday Night Football. That game showcased both the 49ers’ resilience and their mounting injury challenges. With Brock Purdy sidelined, Mac Jones played through multiple ailments. He delivered a gritty 342-yard, two-touchdown performance despite taking several hard hits. The win, though costly, gave head coach Kyle Shanahan’s team momentum heading into a crucial road test.
On the other side, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers enter brimming with confidence after a 38-35 shootout win over Seattle. Tampa Bay’s balanced attack makes them one of the most complete teams in the conference.
For the 49ers, this game represents a test of depth and durability. Injuries to key offensive players have forced Shanahan to rely heavily on Christian McCaffrey and the short passing game. However, but Tampa Bay’s front seven is one of the most disciplined in football. The 49ers will need Jones to find success on early downs to avoid long-yardage situations against a pass rush led by Vita Vea and Lavonte David.
Tampa Bay, meanwhile, sees this as a chance to validate its standing among NFC heavyweights. The Buccaneers’ offense has been explosive even without Mike Evans. That’s thanks to Emeka Egbuka’s emergence as a legitimate downfield threat. With Mayfield’s efficiency improving week by week, head coach Todd Bowles has found the right blend of controlled aggression.
Both defenses are elite at limiting the run and creating pressure. As such, whichever quarterback stays upright and mistake-free will likely decide this one.
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Here we will look at and discuss some bold predictions for the game between the 49ers and the Buccaneers in Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season.
Mac Jones is expected to start for San Francisco despite knee and oblique injuries. That said, his health and protection will be key concerns. Jones has shown toughness and command under Shanahan’s scheme. Still, Tampa Bay’s defense presents a more formidable challenge.
Jones’ tendency to hold the ball under pressure could spell trouble against the Buccaneers’ front seven. Expect Shanahan to rely heavily on quick throws, screens, and motion-based plays to keep the pass rush honest. Even so, Jones may struggle to sustain drives or generate big plays downfield. A stat line around 220 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception feels realistic against this aggressive Tampa Bay defense.
When healthy, Christian McCaffrey is San Francisco’s engine. He is a threat to score from anywhere on the field. However, the Buccaneers’ defensive scheme is tailor-made to limit backs like him. Tampa Bay ranks among...
