Buccaneers vs. Jets NFL Game Week 2 | Sep 21, 2025

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets are gearing up for an exciting inter-conference showdown in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season. Scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET, this game at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, promises a compelling battle between two teams with playoff ambitions. Broadcast on CBS, with tickets starting at an affordable $83, fans have a fantastic opportunity to experience this matchup live or watch from home. This game blends veteran leadership, emerging talent, and the vibrant energy of Tampa’s pirate-themed stadium. Here’s a detailed guide to the game, including team insights, key players, viewing options, and tips for attending or watching.

An Inter-Conference Battle with Playoff Implications

The Buccaneers and Jets have met infrequently, with Tampa Bay leading the all-time series 8-5. Their last encounter in 2021 saw the Buccaneers pull off a 28-24 comeback victory, driven by Tom Brady’s late-game heroics. This Week 3 matchup offers the Buccaneers, who finished 9-8 in 2024 under head coach Todd Bowles, a chance to build on their NFC South dominance. Meanwhile, the Jets, coming off an 8-9 season in 2024 with Aaron Rodgers back in form, aim to prove they’re ready to compete for an AFC playoff spot under Robert Saleh.

Both teams are driven by postseason goals. The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield, rely on a balanced offense and a stout defense to maintain their divisional edge. The Jets, with Rodgers’ experience and a talented young core, are looking to break through in the competitive AFC East. This early-season clash could provide critical momentum for either team’s playoff push.

Game Details: When, Where, and How to Watch

• Date and Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET
• Location: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida
• TV/Streaming: CBS (check local listings for channel numbers)
• Local Broadcast: WTVT (CBS/13) in Tampa, WCBS-TV (CBS/2) in New York
• Radio: WXTB 97.9 FM (Tampa), ESPN 98.7 FM (New York), SiriusXM channels 241 (Tampa Bay) and 242 (New York)
• Announcers: Andrew Catalon (play-by-play), Tiki Barber (color analyst), A.J. Ross (sideline)
• Streaming Options: Stream the game via Paramount+, the CBS Sports app, fuboTV, or YouTube TV, all offering free trials for new users. NFL+ provides mobile streaming for out-of-market fans, starting at $6.99/month.

CBS’s broadcast, featuring Andrew Catalon’s energetic play-by-play and Tiki Barber’s insightful analysis, delivers a high-quality viewing experience. Fans can stream the game through Paramount+ or the CBS Sports app with a cable login or via live TV streaming services like fuboTV, which offers a seven-day free trial. NFL+ is ideal for out-of-market viewers, providing live game audio and mobile streaming. Check your local CBS affiliate to confirm channel availability, as it varies by region.

Ticket Information: Experience Raymond James Stadium

Attending the game at Raymond James Stadium is a unique experience, with its pirate ship, cannon blasts, and passionate Bucs fans. Tickets start at $83 through platforms like Ticketmaster, and StubHub, and SeatGeek, making this one of the more affordable NFL games of the week. Prices vary based on seating location, with upper-deck seats offering budget-friendly options and lower-level seats near the field commanding higher rates. Given the game’s early-season significance and Tampa’s vibrant fanbase, tickets are expected to sell quickly.

To secure the best deals, compare prices across platforms and opt for verified tickets to avoid scams. Pair your game-day experience with Buccaneers or Jets gear from Fanatics, offering everything from Baker Mayfield jerseys to Aaron Rodgers hoodies. Raymond James Stadium’s festive atmosphere, complete with tailgating and the iconic pirate ship firing after scores, makes this a must-attend event for NFL fans.

Key Players to Watch

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Baker Mayfield (QB): Mayfield solidified his role as Tampa’s starter in 2024, throwing for 3,878 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. His grit and playmaking ability make him a key factor against the Jets’ defense.
• Rachaad White (RB): White ran for 1,021 yards and eight touchdowns in 2024, while adding 356 receiving yards. His versatility could exploit gaps in New York’s run defense.
• Mike Evans (WR): The veteran receiver led the Bucs with 79 catches for 1,255 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024. His red-zone dominance will test the Jets’ secondary.
• Todd Bowles (Head Coach): Bowles’s defensive schemes led to a top-10 unit (319.6 yards allowed per game) in 2024. His ability to disrupt Rodgers will be crucial.

New York Jets

• Aaron Rodgers (QB): The four-time MVP threw for 3,532 yards, 25 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in 2024, his first full season back from injury. His veteran savvy makes him a matchup nightmare.
• Breece Hall (RB): Hall emerged as a star in 2024, rushing for 1,167 yards and nine touchdowns, plus 512 receiving yards. His explosiveness could challenge Tampa’s linebackers.
• Garrett Wilson (WR): Wilson led the Jets with 88 catches for 1,132 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. His speed and route-running will test Tampa’s secondary.
• Robert Saleh (Head Coach): Saleh’s aggressive defense, ranked sixth in points allowed (19.3 per game) in 2024, thrives on pressure from Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner’s coverage.

Game Preview: What to Expect on the Field

This matchup pits Tampa’s balanced attack against the Jets’ high-powered offense and stingy defense. The Buccaneers’ offense, ranked 10th in scoring (24.1 points per game in 2024), relies on Mayfield’s improvisation and White’s versatility. Their defense, eighth in yards allowed (322.4 per game), excels at generating pressure, with Vita Vea (6.5 sacks in 2024) anchoring the line.

The Jets’ offense, ranked ninth in yards (367.8 per game in 2024), thrives on Rodgers’ precision and Hall’s explosiveness. Their defense, led by Williams (8.5 sacks) and Gardner (three interceptions), is among the NFL’s best at shutting down passing attacks. Key battles to watch include:

• Bucs’ O-line vs. Jets’ D-line: New York’s Williams and Jermaine Johnson will target Tampa’s tackles to disrupt Mayfield’s rhythm.
• Mike Evans vs. Sauce Gardner: Tampa’s star receiver faces the Jets’ All-Pro corner, who allowed just 41.2% completion rate in coverage in 2024.
• Turnover Battle: The Jets’ +4 turnover margin (eighth in NFL) faces Tampa’s +2 margin, making ball security critical.

Weather in Tampa on September 21 should be warm and humid, with forecasts predicting partly cloudy skies and temperatures around 84°F. These conditions could favor the passing game, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair.

Viewing Experience: CBS’s Sunday Afternoon Broadcast

CBS’s broadcast, with Andrew Catalon, Tiki Barber, and A.J. Ross, offers a dynamic viewing experience, blending energetic commentary with sideline insights. The CBS Sports app enhances the experience with live stats, player tracking, and multi-angle replays. Local viewers in Tampa and New York can tune into WTVT or WCBS-TV, while streaming services like Paramount+ and YouTube TV provide flexibility for cord-cutters. NFL+ is perfect for out-of-market fans, offering live audio and mobile streaming.

To optimize your viewing, test your streaming setup in advance and ensure a stable internet connection for HD quality. Pair your watch party with Tampa-inspired snacks like Cuban sandwiches or New York-style pizza to capture the game-day vibe.

Why This Game Matters

This Week 3 clash carries significant implications for both teams. A Buccaneers win would reinforce their NFC South dominance and boost their confidence against a tough AFC opponent. For the Jets, a victory would signal their readiness to compete for an AFC playoff spot and build momentum in a crowded division. The game also showcases two passionate fanbases, with Tampa’s pirate-themed energy and the Jets’ loyal supporters adding to the intensity.

Fan Tips: How to Prepare

• Get Your Gear: Show your team pride with Buccaneers or Jets apparel from Fanatics. From Mike Evans jerseys to Garrett Wilson hoodies, there’s gear for every fan.
• Watch Party Setup: Set up your Paramount+ or CBS Sports app early to avoid technical issues. A large screen and surround sound can elevate the experience.
• Stay Connected: Follow @Buccaneers and @NYJets on social media for pregame content, live updates, and highlights. The NFL app offers real-time stats and exclusive content.
• Betting Insights: Per DraftKings, the Jets are slight favorites at -135, with the Buccaneers at +115. The over/under is set at 47.5 points, suggesting a competitive, high-scoring game.

The Buccaneers vs. Jets Week 3 matchup is a must-watch inter-conference showdown, blending veteran star power, young talent, and playoff implications. Whether you’re cheering from Raymond James Stadium or watching on CBS, this game promises intense action and unforgettable moments. Secure your tickets, don your team colors, and get ready for a Sunday afternoon filled with NFL excitement.