The Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson gives his scouting report for Sunday’s game between the Broncos and Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla.

Offense

Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix is off to a rough NFL start. He is ranked No. 30 by Pro Football Focus among 33 NFL quarterbacks while having completed 46 of 77 passes for 384 yards with no touchdowns and four interceptions. He has been hurt by a shaky running game and crummy offensive line play. But perhaps wide receiver Josh Reynolds can emerge as a consistent downfield threat. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is off to a great start, having thrown for 474 yards with five touchdowns and one interception. He has one of the NFL’s best receiver duos in Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, who have combined for 23 catches for 303 yards.

Advantage: Buccaneers

Defense

A bright spot for the Broncos has been on defense. They rank No. 9 in the NFL in total defense and No. 11 in points allowed. Defensive end Zach Allen, tied for fourth in the NFL with 13 pressures, and outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper, who has two sacks, have bothered opposing quarterbacks. But penalty-plagued cornerback Pat Surtain II must play better. The Buccaneers have had a bend-not-break unit, ranking No. 28 in total defense and No. 6 in points allowed. Star safety Antoine Winfield remains out with a foot injury and nose tackle Vita Vea is doubtful with a knee injury. But they have a strong group of linebackers, led by Lavonte David.

Advantage: Buccaneers

Coaching

Sean Payton is still finding his footing in his second season with the 0-2 Broncos. But it’s hard to argue with his resume, one that includes winning a Super Bowl with New Orleans. Payton did have some curious decisions in last Sunday’s 13-6 home loss to Pittsburgh, including not attempting an onside kick late in the game. The Bucs’ Todd Bowles was given a tough task, taking over a team in 2022 two years removed from a Super Bowl win and having quarterback Tom Brady retire after his first season. But the defensive specialist has built up the Bucs’ unit, had a 2023 playoff win over Philadelphia, and they are 2-0 and coming off a 20-16 upset at Detroit.

Advantage: Buccaneers

Intangibles

Denver is playing well on special teams. Punter Riley Dixon looked good, the punt coverage was impressive, and Wil Lutz hasn’t missed a kick. The Broncos also have had a knack in the first two weeks of staying in games when they are outplayed. They will look to steal an ugly win. The Buccaneers will feel at home on a balmy day in which the high temperature is projected to be 90 degrees with about 80% humidity. They will try to wear down the Broncos. The Buccaneers have good home fans and they will try to rattle Nix by making plenty of noise.

Advantage: Buccaneers