2 min read • January 22, 2022
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Injury Advantage: Rams Offense
Despite being down veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth, the Rams have the injury edge over the Buccaneers' defense.
Linebackers Lavonte David and Shaquil Barrett are nowhere close to 100%, as evident by their limited mobility against the Eagles.
David is dealing with a foot injury that caused him to miss the final three games of the season, while Barrett's knee issue kept him out the final two games of the season.
Their limitations in the middle of the field should open more space for tight end Tyler Higbee to operate.
It could also allow Los Angeles to use Cam Akers and Sony Michel more through toss plays and screens.
Akers had 95 scrimmage yards against the Cardinals last Monday in his second game back from a torn Achilles tendon in July.
He is not fully healthy, but will likely split touches with Michel.
Tampa Bay could also be down No. 1 corner Sean Murphy-Bunting, who missed the Wildcard game with a hamstring strain.
If Murphy-Bunting plays, he likely won't matchup against Pro Bowl wideout Cooper Kupp or former Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
Carlton Davis, who dealt with a back issue last week, or Jamel Dean, who suffered a slight hamstring injury Week 18 but played well last week, will get that assignment.
The Buccaneers allowed the 12th most passing yards this season, while the Rams ranked fifth in passing yards.
Check out the matchup fieldview at: https://sicscore.com/nfl/games/los-angeles-rams-vs-tampa-bay-buccaneers-1.
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