TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Buccaneers’ defense has been plagued with unfortunate injuries to kick off the season, but despite the misfortunes, Tampa Bay found its grit to take down the Detroit Lions in a long-awaited playoff rematch, leaving them undefeated heading into Week 3.
Majority of the injuries began during the season opener against the Washington Commanders when third-year cornerback Zyon McCollum suffered a concussion in the first half. Veteran Bryce Hall was slotted into his position but was carted off the field wearing an air cast on his right ankle.
When asked if Hall’s injury was season-ending, Bucs’ head coach Todd Bowles said, “I haven’t heard all of that, but from what I know, it’s probably season-ending.”
Defensive back Josh Hayes also suffered an ankle injury during the matchup, leaving Jamel Dean as the lone true cornerback healthy for the game. As for Winfield, Bowles said the safety got hurt on one of the last two plays against the Commanders.
“He was on the onside [kick] team and he couldn’t go out there for the onside [kick] team. He’s pretty sore. We’ll see how he feels,” Bowles said on Monday following the game.
Now the question remains as to whether Vita Vea will play against the Denver Broncos. The veteran nose tackle, who’s been a dominant force on defense exited Sunday’s game with a knee injury, which was later revealed to be an MCL sprain.
Will Vita Vea play on Sunday?
On Monday, Bowles didn’t rule out the veteran, instead, he said said Vea is simply “day-to-day.”
“[Vea] has an MCL sprain, grade two. Right no, he’s day-to-day, but not ruled out,” Bowles said.
The Buccaneers should have a better outlook on their starting lineup as the week progresses.
What other Bucs are injured?
The Buccaneers were without several key defensive starters during Sunday’s matchup at Ford Field, including All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and second-year defensive lineman Calijah Kancey.
The other inactive players from Week 2 included defensive back Josh Hayes, outside linebacker Jose Ramirez, defensive lineman Ben Stille, tackle Luke Goedeke, and tight end Devin Culp.
Despite several defensive weapons being absent from the Bucs scheme, Tampa caged the Detroit Lions 20-16 in their playoff rematch, thanks to an 11-yard rushing touchdown by Baker Mayfield.
The team’s underdog victory also put the team back in the national spotlight, which fans have been preaching not to overlook the back-to-back-to-back NFC South champions.
What’s next?
The undefeated Buccaneers will host the 0-2 Denver Broncos and rookie quarterback Bo Nix for a 1 p.m. matchup at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday.
For the Bucs’ facing a rookie quarterback should be no issue as they’ve already defeated former Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels in Week 1. Additionally, the Broncos will be without their starting right tackle Mike McGlinchey who is expected to miss about a month with a significant MCL sprain.
Fans can watch the game live on Fox Sports or follow live updates on Your Officials Bucs Station — WFLA News Channel 8.