Niners vs. Buccaneers: Key Player Inactives Revealed Ahead of Matchup

Nov. 10, 2024, 8:30 p.m. Sports

Read time estimation: 4 minutes. 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to face off in an exciting matchup this coming weekend, but there are some key player inactives that have been revealed ahead of the game. Both teams have had their fair share of injuries and setbacks this season, and these inactives could have a significant impact on how the game unfolds.

For the 49ers, the biggest blow comes in the form of star tight end George Kittle being ruled out for the game. Kittle, who is widely regarded as one of the best tight ends in the league, has been dealing with a lingering knee injury that has kept him sidelined for the past few weeks. His absence will be sorely felt by the 49ers, as he is a crucial part of their offensive game plan and a favorite target of quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.

In addition to Kittle, the 49ers will also be without starting running back Raheem Mostert, who is dealing with an ankle injury. Mostert has been a key contributor to the 49ers' rushing attack this season, averaging over five yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns in just five games. His absence will put more pressure on backup running backs Jerick McKinnon and JaMycal Hasty to step up and fill the void.

On the defensive side of the ball, the 49ers will be without cornerback Richard Sherman and safety Jaquiski Tartt. Sherman, a veteran leader of the 49ers' secondary, has been sidelined with a calf injury and his absence will be a big blow to the team's pass defense. Tartt, who has been dealing with a groin injury, is also a key piece of the 49ers' defense and his absence will make it tougher for them to contain the Buccaneers' high-powered offense.

As for the Buccaneers, they will be without wide receiver Chris Godwin, who is dealing with a finger injury. Godwin, who has emerged as one of quarterback Tom Brady's favorite targets this season, has been a big playmaker for the Buccaneers and his absence will be a significant loss for their offense. In Godwin's absence, look for wide receivers Mike Evans and Scotty Miller to step up and take on a bigger role in the passing game.

The Buccaneers will also be without cornerback Carlton Davis, who is dealing with a knee injury. Davis has been a key part of the Buccaneers' defense this season, recording three interceptions and eight passes defended in just six games. His absence will make it tougher for the Buccaneers to contain the 49ers' passing attack and could open up opportunities for Garoppolo to exploit the secondary.

Overall, the inactives for both teams will have a significant impact on how this matchup plays out. With key players missing on both sides of the ball, the coaching staffs will need to make adjustments and rely on their depth to step up and make plays. It will be a challenging game for both teams, but with playoff implications on the line, expect both the 49ers and Buccaneers to leave it all out on the field in what promises to be a thrilling and competitive matchup.