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NFL·PREVIEW·November 7, 2026 12:24 PM ET

Buccaneers defense brings NFL-best -0.22 EPA per play into matchup with Bears

Tampa Bay enters on a two-game winning streak.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 8m1 min read
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What happened: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense enters their matchup against Chicago allowing -0.22 expected points added per play, the lowest mark in the NFL. Ben Johnson is preparing to attack Tampa Bay's aggressive linebacker unit using play-action and misdirection. The matchup features the league's top-ranked defense against a timing-oriented offensive scheme.

Why it matters: Tampa Bay holds a 3-5 record through eight games and sits 10th in the NFC playoff picture following consecutive wins. Maintaining elite defensive efficiency remains critical for the Buccaneers to stay within striking distance in the NFC South. Defensive discipline against deceptive concepts will dictate whether Tampa Bay can extend its midseason turnaround.

By the numbers: The Buccaneers defense leads the NFL with -0.22 EPA per play allowed. Tampa Bay is 3-5 through eight games in 2026 and comes off a 16-0 shutout victory over the Atlanta Falcons.

What to watch: Tampa Bay will look to push its winning streak to three games when it meets Chicago this week. How the Buccaneers' front seven handles misdirection on early downs will serve as the game's decisive battle.

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