The Week 13 battle between the Arizona Cardinals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is defined by the sheer grit of its two central offensive players, both fighting to return from abrupt health setbacks.
On the Tampa Bay sideline, quarterback Baker Mayfield (shoulder) is expected to play, a major win for a team desperate to regain momentum. Just days after suffering a sprained AC joint in his non-throwing shoulder, Mayfield powered through practice, taking all first-team reps. His decision to play, even with discomfort, is critical, as the Bucs’ offense struggled in his absence last week.
Conversely, the Arizona passing attack is hoping for the return of star rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who missed two games after an emergency appendicitis surgery. While he returned to practice this week, Harrison Jr. is listed as questionable and may face a reduced target share as he gets his footing back.
This matchup hinges on the performance of these two competitors. Can Mayfield overcome his injury to stabilize the Buccaneers’ playoff push, or will a healthy-enough Harrison Jr. elevate the Cardinals’ offense and play spoiler?
