Written by FRED GOODALL, Sports Writer for the Associated Press.

TAMPA, Fla.

Baker Mayfield is determined to lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a division title and secure a spot in the playoffs, despite dealing with rib pain. The quarterback will not let his injury prevent him from playing in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

Mayfield was hurt by a tackle towards the end of the previous game, where they lost 23-13 at home against New Orleans. He was able to practice on Friday and intends to play in the upcoming game against the Panthers, which is crucial for the Bucs to secure their third consecutive NFC South title.

Coach Todd Bowles stated that the player is fully prepared and will be available for the game on Sunday. The coach anticipates that the player will perform as he normally does.

Aside from securing the division, a win against Carolina (2-14) would also secure a playoff spot for the Bucs (8-8) as the fourth seed in the NFC.

In December, Mayfield guided Tampa Bay to a 4-1 record after a slump where they lost six out of seven games. As a result, the Buccaneers are now back in the running for a potential fourth consecutive playoff spot, which would be a new record for the franchise.

The player, in his sixth year of professional football and now on his fourth team in three years, sustained an injury after being tackled by Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu during a 2-point conversion play last Sunday.

On Thursday, the quarterback’s practice was restricted, but on Friday, it was reported that they participated fully.

It is not certain if Mayfield will don additional cushioning to safeguard his abdomen for the game on Sunday.

Bowles stated that he is confident the individual will be kept safe, but he is unsure to what extent.

In the meantime, Shaquil Barrett (linebacker) is anticipated to play on Sunday despite his groin injury, along with Carlton Davis (cornerback) and Ko Kieft (tight end) who will also be back in action after being sidelined last week against New Orleans.

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The NFL section of the AP website: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

Source: wralsportsfan.com