Staff Predictions for St. Louis Rams vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

With the St. Louis Rams taking their first road trip of the regular season to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tomorrow afternoon, we’re once again making our predictions for the outcome of the matchup. Following the Minnesota Vikings’ shellacking of the Rams last Sunday, our staff has a decidedly more negative outlook this week. All but one of our writers last week projected a Rams win; this week there’s an expectation of a Rams defeat from three of our four predictors.

Without further ado, here are our predictions for Rams versus Buccaneers:

Shawn Campbell, Editor: “The Rams will find success against Josh McCown, but won’t find the end zone. The defense will not be enough as Tampa Bay scores late.” Buccaneers 17, Rams 9

Patrick Karraker, Editor: “After last week’s Rams effort, I can’t believe that this Rams offense is going to put together a touchdown drive until I see one myself (particularly if Austin Davis is the starting quarterback). With the struggles Janoris Jenkins has had, I have to think that he’ll give up at least a few big catches to Vincent Jackson, and I would not be surprised in the least by an Davis-thrown pick six either.” Buccaneers 23, Rams 9

Scott Criscione, Staff Writer: “Last week really deflated spirits of fans and the team alike. You thought the Vikings were tough? Tampa has Lovie Smith as their coach. This one won’t be pretty. Unless the Rams can truly dominate on defense this one won’t be close.” Buccaneers 24, Rams 17

Paul Lamb, Staff Writer: “Last week saw both teams lose. The only difference was that the Bucs put up a fight, while St. Louis played a dreadful 60 minutes. The Rams offense is out of sorts, and the one thing they thought they could rely on (the defense) was dealt a huge blow with the Chris Long injury. Still, it’s the Bucs. And if there was ever a week to get back on track, it’s this week. Look for the Rams to play with a little more pride and fire.” Rams 20, Buccaneers 13