With the 2020 NFL schedule being released Thursday night, all eyes are on Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Bucs suddenly became one of the biggest draws of the NFL schedule when Brady left the New England Patriots after 20 years. While we’ll wait to see which of their matchups end up in primetime, here’s a look at the five biggest games on Brady and the Buccaneers’ 2020 schedule based on their slated opponents.
Away vs. New York Giants
Week 8: Monday, Nov. 2, 8:15 p.m., ESPN
Brady has had his fair share of big games at MetLife stadium, which would make this possible last hurrah in the Meadowlands a big game on the Buccaneers’ calendar. It will be the fourth year in the row and fifth time in a six-season span that the Buccaneers and Giants meet. The Giants have won four of the last five, including the Week 3 game last season in which a missed 32-yard field goal secured a 32-31 victory for New York in Daniel Jones’ thrilling debut. The last three games between the two have been decided by three points or fewer.
Home vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Week 12: Sunday, Nov. 29, 4:25 p.m., CBS
Kansas City captured its first Super Bowl championship in 50 years last season and it’ll be a huge test for Brady to face the defending champions. The Brady-led Patriots lost to the Chiefs by a touchdown last season. If Brady and the Buccaneers can secure a win it would be a statement.
Home vs. Green Bay Packers
Week 6: Sunday, October 18, 4:25 p.m., FOX
Brady and Aaron Rodgers could be meeting for the final time. It’ll be a major test for the 42-year-old Brady and his new team after ending his 20-year run as a single-franchise icon; Rodgers hold such status entering his 16th year with the Packers, but now has Jordan Love breathing down his neck. New England topped Green Bay by two touchdowns in 2018.
Home/Away vs. New Orleans Saints
Week 1: Sunday, Sept. 13 (at NO), 4:25 p.m, FOX
Week 9: Sunday, Nov. 8 vs. NO, 8:20, NBC
With two NFC South meetings scheduled between the Bucs and Saints, we’ll get two epic showdowns between legendary QBs in Brady and Drew Brees. Both teams have Super Bowl aspirations and will be battling for division supremacy.
Away vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Week 7: Sun, Oct. 25, 8:20 p.m., NBC
The first NFL game in Las Vegas should be circled on every team’s calendar. Following the Patriots’ loss to the Tennessee Titans in the AFC wild card game, the Raiders were one of the top teams mentioned to be a potential landing spot for Brady. But now they’ll have to face him on the other side of the field in their first season in Sin City.