If four straight losses weren’t enough, the Bucs took another hit on Sunday—this time to their offensive line. Yup, their powerhouse LT Tristan Wirfs went down with a knee injury in the first half against the 49ers. Tampa ended up losing a nail-biter, 23-20, but the loss of Wirfs had fans holding their breath even more than the game’s final score.

For a team already struggling, losing one of their most reliable protectors was about the last thing they needed. Luckily, though, there’s a silver lining. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Wirfs’ MRI came back showing an MCL sprain, not something serious.

Sure, he’ll be out a couple of weeks, but given the alternatives, that’s almost worth a sigh of relief. With a little luck, Wirfs could be back in time to anchor Tampa’s offense for a crucial stretch run. And they need him, bad.

Wirfs got hurt on a third-and-7, going up against Nick Bosa—talk about a heavyweight match. It’s like the Clash of The Titans. Tampa had to call in former 49er Justin Skule to step in. But let’s face it, filling in for Wirfs is no easy job. Skule’s been decent, covering when Luke Goedeke was out, but Wirfs is a different breed on that line. You don’t cover for Wirfs and say we’d be fine. You pray that he returns.

Tristan Wirfs’ absence going to hurt the Bucs…

This three-time Pro Bowler, team captain, and arguably the Bucs’ best player, had fans holding their breath when he was sent to the medical tent against the 49ers. After some anxious tests, though, the news wasn’t as grim as it could’ve been. Sure, where Tampa is right now is looking shaky. But they are expecting Tristan Wirfs to be back soon, So, there’s still hope that the Bucs can make noise in the NFC. Until then, it’s anyone’s guess what’s in store for the Bucs.

You’ve seen the Bucs’ spiral—remember when they were 4-2? Feels like forever ago. Now, in a blink, it’s mid-November, and they’ve lost four in four. It’s rough. But Tristan Wirfs is the kind of steady presence they need, pronto! Let’s cut to the chase. Missing him isn’t just a dent in the O-line; it’s a blow to team morale. Tampa’s counting on his return to settle things down. Why? You may ask. Because if he does miss a game, it’d be his first. The thing is, he has started all 73 games he’s played in his career. Importance not noted, yet? Well, picture this: he was on the field for every offensive snap in 2023.

The silver lining? Wirfs might not be out for long. But there’s more. The Bucs have a bye in week 11, which could give Wirfs some time to heal up. The Franchise will be on the road to play the Giants in week 12. And seeing how much turmoil Big Blue is in, it could also mean a return-to-form game for Tampa. Hope it is if you are a Bucs fan because the playoff race gets hella interesting (and tight) from hereon.