Week 16 Buccaneers vs Cowboys prediction and fantasy picks feat. Bucky Irving, CeeDee Lamb and more

The Dallas Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers will clash on Sunday Night Football in Week 16 of the 2024 NFL season. Both teams still have hopes of making it to the playoffs and desperately need a win in this matchup. Here's how things could play out, including some fantasy football players to target and fade.

Cowboys vs Buccaneers preview

Week 16 preview (image credit: getty)

The Dallas Cowboys are barely hanging onto hope of making it to the postseason, but they have not been eliminated. A loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would end their chances, so a win is required to keep their season alive.

The Buccaneers have a one-game lead over the Atlanta Falcons in the race for the NFC South division title entering Week 16. They control their destiny and winning this game would keep it that way.

Baker Mayfield will look to continue his strong season, particularly when throwing the ball to Mike Evans. He has also enjoyed a breakout season from rookie running back Bucky Irving, who has surpassed Rachaad White in their offensive game plan. Their strong offense will aim to keep things rolling against the Cowboys' struggling defense, especially Irving in the ground game.

The Cowboys will counter them with their tandem of Cooper Rush and CeeDee Lamb, who have displayed excellent chemistry in recent weeks. Lamb has continued being one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, despite the loss of starting quarterback Dak Prescott to injury. He has an ideal chance of keeping it going against the Buccaneers, who have one of the worst passing defenses in the league.

Cowboys vs Buccaneers prediction

Both offenses fancy their chances of finding success against the opposing team's defense. The Cowboys will be at home, which would usually be an advantage; however, both teams have had reverse splits this season when it comes to home field advantage. They have better road records, which could be a factor.

The Cowboys' only victory in Dallas this season was on Thanksgiving against the New York Giants. They will look to improve on their 1-6 record, and given the relatively favorable matchup, they could pull off an upset in this Week 16 game.

Prediction: Cowboys 27 - Buccaneers 24

Cowboys vs Buccaneers Start/Sit picks for Week 16 Fantasy Football

Knowing which players to target and fade each week in fantasy football is often the difference between winning and losing. Here are some of the best options from this Week 16 matchup.

Start 'Em

• Baker Mayfield
• Bucky Irving
• Rico Dowdle
• Mike Evans
• CeeDee Lamb

Sit 'Em

• Cooper Rush
• Ezekiel Elliot
• Sean Tucker
• Jalen Tolbert
• Jake Ferguson