The Buccaneers' Baker Mayfield will be "fine by Sunday" when they face the Panthers.
Despite Todd Bowles's Monday comments to media about Mayfield's sore ribs, the Bucs' season finale is a must-win, therefore Bowles still expects Mayfield to play.It will be Sunday before he's ready, Bowles said.
Mayfield suffered an injury on Sunday while throwing a touchdown pass to Chris Godwin from 47 yards out in Tampa Bay's 23-13 defeat to the New Orleans Saints.
With his 28th of the season, the seven-year veteran set a new career best.
Shortly after the touchdown, the Bucs tried to convert a two-point play. The Saints' Tyrann Mathieu was assessed a roughing penalty for contact with Mayfield's midsection. While Mayfield remained in the game, he crouched and grimaced while watching from the sidelines.
The fourth seed in the NFC playoffs is held by Tampa Bay. Atlanta would win the NFC South and get to host the wild-card game if it defeats Carolina on the road.
Be wary, Buccaneers fans: a Saints victory against the Falcons would put you ahead of them if you lose.
It would be a win-win for the NFC South if the Saints(8-8) lose to the Falcons(7-9) and the Panthers(7-9) beat Tampa Bay.Mayfield is making every effort to be ready for this.