NFL Weather Forecast for Buccaneers vs. Patriots: Expect Strong Rain in Foxborough for Sunday Night Football

Buccaneers vs. Patriots Odds

*Odds as of Sunday morning

There's no doubt about it. From an NFL betting perspective, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New England Patriots matchup on Sunday Night Football is one of the most one-sided games in recent memory.

According to The Action Network's NFL public betting data, an incredible 85% of the bets and 82% of the money wagered on the spread are backing Tom Brady in his return to Foxborough, Mass.

In response, oddsmakers have pushed the Sunday Night Football spread from Tampa Bay -5.5 to -7 (click here for live Buccaneers vs. Patriots odds).

Another potential wrinkle for the game is the latest weather forecast, which shows rain could be a factor for Sunday Night Football.

Below we detail the updated Buccaneers vs. Patriots weather forecast, including the chance of rain falling at Gillette Stadium.

Buccaneers vs. Patriots NFL Weather Forecast

According to the National Weather Service, there's a 70% chance of rain on Sunday night in Foxborough and the precipitation could be heavy at times.

However, the timing of the wet weather will be key. Right now there’s about a 50% chance of rain during the first quarter of Buccaneers vs. Patriots, with the likelihood of rain increasing throughout the game.

So, which team would have a potential advantage should it rain during this game?

The Action Network's Chris Raybon weighed in:

"A slippery surface and wet ball creates randomness — think fumbles or explosive plays due to defenders slipping in the open field — which, in theory, should benefit the underdog since it creates variance.

In this specific matchup, though, rain may hurt the Patriots more than it helps.

If both teams are forced to run more, it's the Bucs that have the much better run defense (seventh in DVOA vs. 28th for the Patriots).

And because Tom Brady is familiar with playing in this stadium in all different conditions over the years, the Bucs shouldn't be at a disadvantage because they're visiting — I'm sure Brady will give them intel on proper cleats, trouble spots on the field, etc."

Raybon also thinks wet weather will affect scoring:

"Regarding the total, rain would make me lean toward the under.

If the Patriots can't pass and can't kick, it's going to be tough for them to score with their run game going against one of the league's best run defenses.

This means the Bucs offense may not need to keep pouring it on the way it has needed to in the first three games as the defense allowed point totals of 29, 25 and 34."