Much of late has not gone the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' way. They ride a four-game losing streak into the bye week, falling short on several occasions to teams considered in the mix for spots in the NFL playoffs.
Tampa Bay has lost some key pieces along the way, specifically when wide receiver Chris Godwin went down four weeks ago with an injury against the Baltimore Ravens.
During garbage time of the Bucs' Monday night loss, Godwin suffered a dislocated left ankle on an awkward tackle by linebacker Roquan Smith. The gruesome image and following diagnosis left no doubt in the reality he would be done for the season.
The NFL proceeded to fine Smith for the use of a hip-drop tackle. Teams unanimously voted to ban this action in March of this year.
18 days after the initial fine, NFL hearing officer Jordy Nelson has since repealed the $16,883 fine, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
"You never want to see anybody go down with any type of injury, but we play a very physical game, and it demands a lot," Smith said back on Oct. 24. "Bullets are flying pretty fast, but I never go into any game to injure any player."
Smith was not flagged in-game for his tackle. Nonetheless, the play remains a devastating blow and a burning "what if" moment amid the Bucs' climb out of a losing record in pursuit of a playoff spot.
Despite his absence, Godwin still leads Tampa Bay in major receiving categories including receptions (50) and yards (576). Tight end Cade Otton has since moved into second in receiving. with Mike Evans also out of the lineup in recent weeks.
Godwin had made himself Baker Mayfield's prime target before his absence from the lineup. Mayfield and the Bucs hope to get Evans back soon, but continue navigate a significant challenge without their top two pass-catching stars in action.
