Buccaneers Host Cardinals in Critical NFC Showdown to Snap 3-Game Skids

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. Both teams are mired in identical three-game losing streaks. The 1 p.m. ET kickoff is a pivotal moment for each franchise’s fading season.Tampa Bay leads the NFC South but is desperate for a win. Arizona is nearly eliminated from playoff contention. This game is about pride and momentum for the struggling squads.

Buccaneers Battle Injuries and Inconsistency

The Buccaneers’ season is at a crossroads. Despite a 6-5 record, their recent play has been concerning. A 34-7 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last week highlighted their issues.Quarterback Baker Mayfield is expected to start despite a shoulder injury. He suffered a low-grade AC joint sprain against the Rams. His performance will be crucial for Tampa Bay’s offense.The defense has also struggled during the losing streak. Stopping the run and creating turnovers have been problems. Coach Todd Bowles needs his unit to rediscover its early-season form quickly.

Cardinals Seek Any Sign of Progress

Arizona’s season has been a disappointment. Their 3-8 record places them last in the NFC West. The team has lost eight of its last nine games overall.Quarterback Kyler Murray has shown flashes since his return. He has thrown for 962 yards and six touchdowns. However, offensive consistency has eluded the Cardinals all year.Head coach Jonathan Gannon is looking for building blocks. A competitive performance against a division leader would be a positive step. According to ESPN analysis, the Cardinals’ defense must pressure Mayfield to have a chance.

Playoff Implications Loom Large

The stakes are much higher for the Buccaneers. They currently hold the NFC’s fourth seed by virtue of leading their division. Another loss could see them fall out of the playoff picture entirely.For Arizona, the playoffs are a distant mathematical possibility. The team is playing for evaluation and establishing a culture. Every game is an audition for players’ futures with the franchise.This contrast in motivation creates an intriguing dynamic. The desperate Buccaneers must handle the pressure. The looser Cardinals could play spoiler.

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This Buccaneers vs Cardinals clash is a test of resilience for two reeling teams. The result will either revive Tampa Bay’s season or deepen Arizona’s despair. Expect a hard-fought battle as both clubs desperately seek a return to the win column.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Buccaneers vs Cardinals game?

The game kicks off at 1 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. It will be played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Is Baker Mayfield playing against the Cardinals?

Yes, Baker Mayfield is expected to start. He is managing a low-grade AC joint sprain in his left shoulder but practiced this week.

What are the records of these two teams?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the game with a 6-5 record. The Arizona Cardinals have a 3-8 record for the 2023 season.

Why is this game important for the Buccaneers?

Tampa Bay leads the NFC South but is on a three-game skid. A loss could jeopardize their hold on first place and their playoff seeding.

Can the Cardinals still make the playoffs?

It is extremely unlikely. Their 3-8 record leaves them with only a minuscule mathematical chance at a Wild Card spot.

Who is favored to win this matchup?

Sportsbooks list the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as favorites. This is due to their better record and home-field advantage.