Just two weeks into the 2024 NFL season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are already staring down a crucial “prove-it” game as they head to Detroit to face the Lions on September 15. The matchup promises to be a high-stakes affair, with Tampa Bay dealing with a series of injuries that could significantly impact their performance.
The Buccaneers are expected to be without up to six starters for this pivotal game. Defensive lineman Calijah Kancey, safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (ankle), and offensive tackle Luke Goedeke (concussion) have already been ruled out. Meanwhile, defensive end Logan Hall (foot), cornerback Zyon McCollum (concussion), and nickelback Tykee Smith (sick) remain uncertain. Kancey and Hall were also absent from the season opener, a 37-20 victory over the Washington Commanders.
The Lions, fresh off an NFC Championship Game appearance last season, are one of the favorites to win the Super Bowl this year. They defeated the Buccaneers 31-23 in the NFC Divisional Playoffs last season, adding extra significance to this rematch.
Breaking Down Possible New Starters for the Bucs
In the absence of the injured starters, the Buccaneers will rely on several players with limited big-game experience. Christian Izien is set to fill in for Winfield Jr., Justin Skule will step in for Goedeke, and Will Gholston will take on one of the defensive end spots.
Izien, a rookie in 2023, played all 17 games last season, starting four. He recorded 47 tackles, two interceptions, and three tackles for loss. Skule, with 12 career starts, hasn’t seen action since 2020 with the San Francisco 49ers. Gholston, in his 12th NFL season, has spent his entire career with the Buccaneers and has 89 career starts under his belt.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles expressed confidence in his roster, stating, “Guys make this team for a reason. Everybody’s going to go through their lumps at some point. Better now than midseason — give some young guys and give some other guys some experience that could help us later on, so we’re going to go with what we got.”
.@WILL_GHOLSTON2 was mic'd up on Sunday 🎙️
Full video ➡️ https://t.co/zUnLEM06Pr pic.twitter.com/XnjbrnpxWK
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) January 5, 2022
Mayfield’s Hot Streak and the Lions’ Added Intensity
Despite the injury setbacks, the Buccaneers have a major weapon in quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is currently on fire. Mayfield’s impressive performance in the season opener—24-of-30 passing for 289 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions—has caught the attention of many. Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon noted Mayfield’s recent form, highlighting a 119.1 passer rating and 12 touchdown passes to two interceptions over his last five games. Gagnon believes Mayfield could be a key factor in the Buccaneers’ performance against the Lions.
Additionally, the Buccaneers face the added challenge of facing former teammate Carlton Davis III, who was traded to the Lions for a 2024 third-round pick. Davis brings insider knowledge of Tampa Bay’s strategies, potentially giving Detroit an edge in their preparation.
As the Buccaneers head into this crucial matchup, their ability to overcome injuries and maintain their momentum will be tested. The outcome of this game could set the tone for their season and provide a significant statement about their capability to contend for a playoff spot.
