Final injury report a mixed bag for the Bucs, but there's some indirect good news
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers just need to win on Sunday – or tie – to secure their fourth straight division title and fifth straight playoff berth. Of course, they will have to do it against a team that's been a thorn in their side over the last several years, particularly at home, in the New […]
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers just need to win on Sunday – or tie – to secure their fourth straight division title and fifth straight playoff berth.
Of course, they will have to do it against a team that's been a thorn in their side over the last several years, particularly at home, in the New Orleans Saints. Tampa Bay has only one once at home against their divisional mates over the last six years, and that was at the last second in a 17-16 win back in 2022.
However, things realistically couldn't be set up much better for them on Sunday, particularly as their opponent is concerned. QB Derek Carr has been ruled out, and star RB Alvin Kamara is listed as doubtful after missing practice all week. New Orleans' primary backup is also out.
Per Saints beat writer Nick Underhill, it sounds like WR Chris Olave will not be activated off injured reserve and play on Sunday either.
As such, the Saints will very likely be without their QB1, RB1, RB2, and WR1 on Sunday against the Bucs. And that's on top of the Saints already having lost 4 of their last 5, including an ugly 25-10 defeat at home to the Las Vegas Raiders last week.
If this isn't a Saints team the Bucs dominate on Sunday, then that's worrisome.
Speaking of the Bucs, they will be without Antoine Winfield, Jr. and Jamel Dean on Sunday, while Cade Otton is listed as doubtful. Todd Bowles said on Friday after practice that Otton would be a game time decision, but the doubtful designation could change that.
On the positive side of things, Bucky Irving, Tristan Wirfs, Payne Durham, and Devin Culp are all cleared and will play on Sunday.
The Bucs and Saints get underway on Sunday at 1:00 pm ET from Raymond James Stadium.
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