1) Battered Baker needs bounce-back game for Bucs
Baker Mayfield earned some MVP chatter earlier this season, leading stirring comebacks and racking up some impressive numbers, but both have escaped him the past four games. In that span, while Mayfield has endured knee, oblique and shoulder injuries, he’s completed only 54.3% of his passes for 530 yards, four TDs and four INTs – after throwing only two picks in the nine prior games. Rookie wideout Emeka Egbuka has had some painful drops in recent games, leading to the passing-game limitations, and the offensive line remains in tough shape. Guard Ben Bredeson left Week 14 with injury and is on IR, weakening the interior offensive line. The Bucs could also be without tight end Cade Otton, but they might welcome back Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. Both receivers have been limited in practice this week, and are questionable for Thursday. The Bucs could save them for the showdown at Carolina in Week 16, however, they also need the firepower badly with every game critical. Tampa Bay’s offense has scored 59 points (while allowing 98) in the past 14 quarters, dating back to the Bills loss. They must find answers fast. Atlanta’s defense has fallen hard in recent games, but rookie pass rusher James Pearce Jr. is still causing havoc up front.
