The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-0) are all set to host the Philadelphia Eagles (3-0) at Raymond James Stadium on September 28, 2025. Fans preparing for the highly anticipated game must also account for typical Tampa afternoon conditions – warm, humid, and unpredictable weather patterns. The afternoon sky patterns in Tampa create potential for sudden weather changes that could impact game conditions and fan experience throughout the contest.

The Week 4 game will kick off at 1 p.m. ET. According to NFLWeather.com, temperatures will stay around 89–90°F through the game with humidity between 58–60%. During the second and third quarters, the temperature might go to 91°F. At the same time, the rain chances stand at 40%, with scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms possible.

And, cloud cover could peak around 42% in the second quarter before easing down to about 21% by the fourth. Although winds will remain manageable, starting between 5–9 mph and increasing to 11–13 mph. Visibility will hold near 10 miles throughout.

That mix means the early quarters may feel steamy but steady, while the second half carries more risk of a delay or slippery turf.

For perspective, the Eagles’ season opener against Dallas had a 60% rain forecast. The skies never opened fully, but lightning still pushed a break in the game for an hour. So, it’s a reminder that even modest percentages in Tampa can shift the schedule.

The Eagles tried to get ahead of the elements, arriving in Tampa earlier this week to adapt to the heat. On the other hand, the Buccaneers see the climate as a home-field advantage. Bucs QB Baker Mayfield said the humidity works in their favor, arguing a few days in Florida can’t prepare visiting teams for four quarters in near-90° air.

So, it’ll be hot with a few quick showers, but the game should roll on.

Well, Jalen Hurts enters with a 1-4 career record against Tampa Bay, including two playoff games. The Buccaneers are unbeaten for the first time since 2005. They’ve won six of the last seven games against the Eagles, including two playoff games by a combined 39 points. With the defending champions in town, every edge counts; even the weather could play a role.

But beyond the weather and stats, it’ll come down to how each team handles the pressure on the field on Sunday.

How heat, focus, and key plays could shape Eagles vs Buccaneers

The Buccaneers know this game is a test of focus as much as talent. Head Coach Todd Bowles stressed that mental preparation in Tampa’s September heat is critical. Bowles emphasized the importance of mental preparation in extreme conditions. “If you’re playing in 10-degree weather, you’ve got to mentally prepare for three or four hours,” he said. Additionally, he added that the same applies in the Florida heat. “When you’re playing in the heat, it’s the same thing. Whoever holds the ball longer, the other team is probably going to struggle.”

Turnovers could tip the balance. Tampa Bay’s defense came alive last week with Jamel Dean’s 55-yard pick-six against the New York Jets, and Mayfield emphasized protecting the ball. “In these tight games, turnovers really matter. Last week, getting those picks was huge,” he said. Philadelphia’s defense, stacked with Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Zack Baun, and a versatile second-year player, including Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and Andrew Mukuba, will make every possession count.

Bucs cornerback Benjamin Morrison also expressed his excitement. “It’s a big game. They’re talented, and it’s a good way to see where we stand,” he said. Execution, discipline, and ball security will probably decide who walks out of Raymond James Stadium undefeated.