49ers-Bucs Inactives: Whitehead Cleared to Play, but Key Players Sit
The San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to clash in a highly anticipated Week 10 matchup. While both teams are looking to secure a victory, there are notable absences on both sides due to injuries and game-day decisions.
Here's a breakdown of the inactives for both teams:
San Francisco 49ers:
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OUT:
- RB Elijah Mitchell (knee): Mitchell, a key part of the 49ers' running game, remains sidelined with a knee injury. This is a major blow for the team, as Mitchell has been a consistent threat on the ground.
- S Jimmie Ward (hamstring): Ward, a veteran leader on the defense, is out with a hamstring injury. His absence will be felt in the secondary, as he is a reliable tackler and coverage defender.
- TE Tyler Kroft (knee): Kroft is another player who will miss the game with a knee injury. This will impact the 49ers' receiving options, as Kroft has been a valuable target in the passing game.
- CB Ambry Thomas (knee): Thomas, a promising young cornerback, has been dealing with a knee injury. He is expected to miss the game, leaving the 49ers short-handed in the secondary.
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ACTIVE:
- WR Deebo Samuel (knee): Samuel, a dynamic playmaker, was listed as questionable with a knee injury but is expected to play. His presence on the field will be crucial for the 49ers' offensive success.
- RB Jordan Mason: Mason, the rookie running back, is active and will likely see increased playing time with Mitchell out.
- S Talanoa Hufanga: Hufanga will be called upon to fill the void left by Ward's absence.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
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OUT:
- WR Chris Godwin (hamstring): Godwin, a key offensive weapon for the Bucs, is out with a hamstring injury. This is a significant loss for Tampa Bay, as Godwin is a reliable receiver and a major target for Tom Brady.
- WR Julio Jones (knee): Jones, a veteran wideout, has been struggling with a knee injury. He has not been a consistent threat this season and is inactive for the game.
- S Logan Ryan (knee): Ryan, a veteran safety, is out with a knee injury. His absence weakens the Buccaneers' secondary, which is already facing a tough test against the 49ers' offense.
- LB Shaquil Barrett (Achilles): Barrett, a key pass rusher, is still recovering from an Achilles injury and is not yet ready to play.
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ACTIVE:
- QB Tom Brady: Brady, the legendary quarterback, is expected to start for the Buccaneers. His presence will be crucial for Tampa Bay's hopes of an upset victory.
Whitehead's Return:
The biggest positive news for the 49ers is the return of RB Tevin Coleman. Coleman, who was recently signed, is expected to contribute to the running back rotation and provide support for Mason. His presence will be crucial as the 49ers navigate their injury-stricken backfield.
Looking Ahead:
This game will be a clash of styles, with the 49ers relying on their strong running game and the Buccaneers hoping to exploit their passing attack. The absences of key players on both sides will add another layer of intrigue to this matchup. With the 49ers hoping to maintain their top spot in the NFC West and the Buccaneers looking to bounce back from their recent struggles, this Week 10 contest is sure to be a thrilling and intense battle.