For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the first three weeks have been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows.

They’ve kicked off the season with a perfect 3-0 record. But injuries have really put Todd Bowles’ roster depth to the test. Now, as they prepare to face the defending champions the Philadelphia Eagles in a pivotal game, the Bucs have received some updates that could change the game for Week 4.

The big news? Quarterback Baker Mayfield. Bucs Insider Rick Stroud reported, “Baker Mayfield has resumed throwing before practice today. Has been limited with a biceps injury on his right arm.” It’s a good sign that Mayfield is back to throwing before Wednesday’s practice.

By Friday, he took it a step further, gently tossing passes during the part of practice that was open to reporters. While the team hasn’t seemed overly worried about his condition, seeing him get some air under the ball is a reassuring sign that he’s on track to play this Sunday.

On the offensive side, reinforcements are on the way. Wide receiver Chris Godwin, who has been out for nearly a year after dislocating his ankle, made his return to the field this week. After a full practice on Wednesday, he took a precautionary rest day on Thursday but was back in action for drills on Friday. Left tackle Tristan Wirfs also practiced, which is a promising sign for his availability against Philadelphia’s fierce pass rush.

On the defensive front, Bowles got some more good news. Starting lineman Logan Hall, who had been out with a groin injury, practiced for the first time on Friday and could be ready to suit up against the Eagles. With Calijah Kancey already out for the season, Hall’s potential return is crucial for a defensive line that needs to contain Jalen Hurts.

The timing could not be better. Tampa Bay’s perfect streak is set to collide with Philadelphia’s, and in the process, both teams get some of their most important players back from injury. For Bowles, Week 4 is not about maintaining that perfect record; it’s about proving this team capable of standing toe-to-toe with the league’s best.

Buccaneers face season’s toughest test against Jalen Hurts and Eagles’ explosive offense

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are off to a perfect start, winning all three of their games, but this Sunday, they face their biggest challenge yet. The PEagles, led by Jalen Hurts and boasting one of the most formidable offenses in the NFL, are rolling into Raymond James Stadium.

Hurts has been using his legs more this season, showing a willingness to break out of the pocket. This dual-threat capability is a significant concern for a Bucs defense that’s already dealing with injuries. Run game coordinator and linebackers coach Larry Foote made the stakes clear: “It’s kind of like pick ’em up, mess ’em up,” Foote explained. “Playground ball. You’ve got to find a way to bring him down. You really don’t want his legs to take over the game.”

The Buccaneers have had their share of success against Hurts in the past, but this version of the Eagles is a whole different beast. With one of the best offensive lines in the league and a wealth of weapons at his disposal, Hurts has plenty of options when defenses overcommit to stopping his runs, from A.J. Brown to DeVonta Smith.

Foote referenced last week’s game with Tyrod Taylor as an example of handling mobile quarterbacks but did admit that this contest is a different level. “Everyone needs to step up; we need a solid game plan for him, and hopefully, we can bring him down,” he emphasized.

For Tampa Bay, the game plan is straightforward yet challenging. Keep Hurts contained in the pocket. Apply pressure. Minimize big plays. And beat the Eagles. If they can beat Philadelphia, their 4-0 start will look good.