Buccaneers miss Bowers, Veners, Jenkins while Dolphins deactivate half of their offense

We already knew that Alterraun Verner and Mike Jenkins would miss today's game due to injuries, while Charles Sims has been ruled out for at least 12 weeks with an ankle injury. In addition, defensive linemen Da'Quan Bowers and Steven Means will also sit out today's game with injuries, as will offensive tackle J.B. Shugarts, the Bucs announced.

This will give another couple of players an opportunity to stand out, however. Rashaan Melvin will get the start in place of Alterraun Verner, opposite Johnthan Banks at right cornerback, according to Scott Smith. Mike Evans will also get the start at wide receiver, after that was officially given to Chris Owusu last week despite Evans seeing significant time with the first team. Patrick Omameh will fill in at right guard after Jamon Meredith's demotion to backup offensive tackle.

The list of inactives on the Dolphins' side is slightly larger, counting ten names. The most significant inactives are running backs Knowshon Moreno and Daniel Thomas, tight end Charles Clay and center Mike Pouncey. This will undoubtedly mean that once again the Bucs' first-string defense looks pretty strong today.