Pat Yasinskas, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

Bucs could be without three injured starters

TAMPA, Fla. -- The Buccaneers will be without their punt and kickoff returner and are likely to be without their starting running back and left tackle for Sunday’s game at Cleveland.

 Coach Lovie Smith said the hamstring injury return man Trindon Holliday suffered in practice earlier this week was more serious than originally thought. Smith said Holliday has been ruled out for Sunday.

Louis Murphy and practice squad receiver Marcus Thigpen worked as return men during the portion of practice that was open to the media Friday. Running back Bobby Rainey also has experience as a return man.

But Rainey is likely to be busy doing other things. Running back Doug Martin is listed as doubtful with an ankle injury. That means Rainey is likely to get the start against a run defense that ranks No. 30 in the league. There also is a possibility rookie Charles Sims could be activated from injured reserve and get some carries.

Left tackle Anthony Collins (foot) also is listed as doubtful. If he can’t go, Oniel Cousins likely will get the start.

^ Back to Top ^