In a crucial Sunday showdown, the Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, both standing at 6-7, vie for a pivotal win in the NFC playoff race. A victory would help the Packers secure the seventh playoff seed. Meanwhile, the NFC South witnesses a fierce battle between the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, and the Buccaneers.
However, the Buccaneers face this challenge without veteran Super Bowl Champion William Gholston. As reported by Greg Auman of Fox Sports, Carlton Davis and Gholston will be sidelined for the upcoming contest. Vita Vea, Chris Godwin, Ryan Neal, and others listed on Thursday’s injury report will be game-day decisions, according to Bowles.
Gholston’s absence, due to a knee injury sustained in Week 14, marks his first missed game since 2017. Patrick O’Conner could step in for increased snaps on the defensive line.
This setback poses a challenge for Tampa Bay’s defense as they aim to contain the resurging Green Bay passing attack. Despite occasional stumbles against the New York Giants, Jordan Love and company may face additional hurdles with the potential absence of Christian Watson, Aaron Jones, Dontayvion Wicks, and Jayden Reed (though Wicks and Reed claim readiness). Sunday’s matchup becomes a true test of the “next man up” mentality for both teams.