Not since 2005 have the Tampa Bay Buccaneers started the season 4-0, but for the fourth time in franchise history they're attempting that this Sunday. It won't be an easy job, both because of the opponent and some key injuries that threaten to bring the vibes down.
Mike Evans hurt his hamstring in last Sunday's win over the New York Jets, which means he won't be on the field to help the Bucs in Week 4. His streak of 1,000 yard seasons is also in jeapordy but the more immediate damage to not having him on the field is that the Bucs will be missing a key player in a huge game.
Luke Goedeke will also miss another game with a foot injury he suffered in the Monday Night Football win over Houston. He lasted less than a quarter after making his return to the lineup and his absence was felt in a big way against the Jets.
Not having Goedeke means a weakened Bucs line -- one already missing Cody Mauch -- will have its work cut out against a stout defensive front for Philly. The good news is that All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs is making his season debut, which is some much-needed relief at exactly the right time.
Full inactives list for Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 4 vs. Eagles
Wirfs isn't the only guy the Bucs are getting back that they sorely need. With Evans out, the idea is that star rookie Emeka Egbuka will step into the WR1 role but he'll be joined for the first time in his career by Chris Godwin.
Tampa Bay is getting Godwin back after losing him in October of last year to a dislocated ankle. It's a huge boost to an offense that hasn't really missed many beats so far this year and can't afford to have that start happening now.
Here's everyone who will be out for today's home opener against the Jets:
Player | Position | Injury |
|---|---|---|
Mike Evans | WR | Hamstring |
Christian Izien | S | Quad |
C.J. Brewer | DL | Healthy Scratch |
Kindle Vildor | CB | Healthy Scratch |
Josh Williams | RB | Healthy Scratch |
Not having Evans or Goedeke is hardly ideal, but the Bucs are at least swapping them out for equal or greater parts. Hopefully the streak of Tampa Bay losing key players to injuries is over, and the one where they can't help but win games no matter what continues on Sunday.
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