The Buccaneers’ match-up against tight end Rob Gronkowski was a bit worrisome without star linebackers Kwon Alexander and Lavonte David in the line-up. However, after news the talented Patriots player won’t appear on Thursday Night Football in Week 5, a collective sigh of relief was heard across the Bucs’ fanbase.
Rob Gronkowski’s talent cannot be understated. However, neither can his injury history. Late Wednesday, the often banged up tight end appeared on the injury report for the first time this week, per Ian Rapoport.
#Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (thigh), a late addition to the injury report, is expected to play. But he figures to be limited some vs #Bucs.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 5, 2017
Just over two hours before kickoff, “limited” turned into “out”, as Mr. Rapoport issued a very impactful update tweet 12 hours after his original injury update.
#Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski, who is dealing with a thigh issue, was expected to be limited tonight. Now, he won’t play. Rough news.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 5, 2017
With the Buccaneers looking to advance their win-loss record to 3-1, this is certainly good news for their chances.
The Patriots offense hasn’t been quite as dominant in the beginning part of this season, and with their defense struggling even more, players like Gronkowski have been even more important to this team’s successes.
There’s been plenty of talk about the Bucs making a statement in this game with a primetime win in front of a national audience.
Beating the team now might bring a little bite off of it’s impact, but with Gronkowski or not, defeating the defending Super Bowl Champions is never a bad thing.
For a defense dealing with several key injuries, the playing field just got a little more evened out for the Buccaneers side of the ball.
How do you think the news Rob Gronkowski will miss Thursday Night’s clash will impact the outcome?
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