With the arrival of September, Tampa Bay isn’t just easing into autumn—it’s igniting with energy. The turn of the season brings the triumphant return of two of the area’s biggest teams: the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning. Whether you’re tailgating outside the stadium or cheering at home, here’s what to watch for—and when.

Buccaneers Football Returns

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are kicking off their 50th season with a schedule that promises plenty of action. Fans can look forward to these early matchups:

Sept 15 – Monday Night Football vs. Houston Texans (away game)

Sept 21 – Home opener vs. New York Jets at Raymond James Stadium

Sept 28 – Home vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Oct 5 – Away at Seattle Seahawks

With milestone celebrations, nationally televised games, and tough opponents early on, the Bucs are set for an exciting start.

Lightning Hit the Ice

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Lightning are gearing up for their preseason matchups before the regular season gets underway. Fans can catch the Bolts in action with these early games:

Sept 26: Preseason home game vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Sept 27: Preseason home game vs. Nashville Predators

Oct 9: Regular-season home opener vs. Ottawa Senators

Hockey season brings its own brand of energy to the region, with the newly renamed Benchmark International Arena buzzing once again.

Rays Play Ball—At Steinbrenner Field

Enjoy fall baseball in Tampa as the Rays host their 2025 home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, the spring training facility for the New York Yankees. Fans can soak up the season’s energy with great games and autumn vibes.

September home games include:

Sept 18: vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Sept 20: vs. Boston Red Sox

Sept 21: vs. Boston Red Sox

USF Bulls Football

The USF Bulls football team is back in action this fall, playing their home games at Raymond James Stadium.

Key upcoming matchups include:

Oct 3, 7:00 PM: vs. Charlotte

Oct 18, TBA: vs. Florida Atlantic University

Game Days in Tampa Bay

From the first kickoff to the final whistle, fall in Tampa Bay is about more than just sports—it’s about community. Whether you’re cheering on the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium, enjoying Rays baseball at Steinbrenner Field, catching the Lightning at Benchmark International Arena, or supporting the USF Bulls on game day, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season with family, friends, and fellow fans. The months ahead promise unforgettable moments across all of Tampa Bay’s fall sports.