Jameis Winston will play most of the first half for Buccaneers vs. Vikings

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are all about getting Jameis Winston ready for the main stage, and that includes playing him for most of the first half tonight against the Minnesota Vikings. That's what Jason Licht said today on WFLA prior to the game, which is set to start at 8:00 p.m. ET.

So, who's excited to see this guy's debut tonight? #TBvsMIN pic.twitter.com/eYKoqWy5RO

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@TBBuccaneers) August 15, 2015

The Bucs will be without a few of their players, including wide receiver Rannell Hall, defensive end T.J. Fatinikun, center Josh Allen and safety Chris Conte, all out with injury. In addition, Keith Tandy has been excused due to a family emergency -- his nephew Jayvon Quarles tragically died after being struck in the head by a piece of football equipment, according to Rick Stroud.

For the Vikings, Adrian Peterson is not expected to play, and they'll be missing a few backups as well, though no one crucial will be absent.

#Vikings inactives: 21 J. Robinson 66 D. Yankey 81 B. Bostick 90 B.J. DuBose 95 S. Crichton #TBvsMIN

— JennaLaineBucs (@JennaLaineBucs) August 15, 2015

You can treat this as your first open thread for the game. Enjoy!