## Washington Commanders' Marcus Mariota Ruled Out for Week 18 Matchup Against Tampa Bay Buccaneers ### Mariota Sidelined with Knee Injury Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota has been ruled out for Sunday's Week 18 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a knee injury, according to head coach Ron Rivera. Rookie quarterback Sam Howell is expected to make his first career NFL start in Mariota's absence. ### Commanders Offense Faces Challenges Without Mariota Mariota has been a key part of the Commanders' offense this season, completing 61.3% of his passes for 3,413 yards with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He has also rushed for 438 yards and four touchdowns. Without Mariota, the Commanders will be forced to rely more heavily on their running game, which ranks 11th in the NFL in rushing yards per game (127.8). Running back Brian Robinson Jr. has emerged as a reliable option, rushing for 792 yards and two touchdowns this season. ### Buccaneers Defense Looking to Finish Strong The Buccaneers' defense will be looking to finish the season on a strong note after allowing an average of 21.5 points per game this season. Led by cornerback Jamel Dean and safety Antoine Winfield Jr., the Buccaneers rank 10th in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game (201.6). ### Payne's Injury Status Uncertain for Commanders Defensive tackle Daron Payne is also questionable for Sunday's game with a foot injury. Payne has been a key player for the Commanders' defense this season, recording 66 tackles and 11.5 sacks. If Payne is unable to play, the Commanders will be without one of their most disruptive players on defense. The Buccaneers' offensive line will be looking to take advantage of Payne's absence and open up running lanes for running back Leonard Fournette. ### Conclusion The Commanders will face a tough challenge against the Buccaneers without Mariota and Payne. Howell will need to step up and play well in his first career start, and the Commanders' defense will need to find a way to stop Fournette and the Buccaneers' passing attack.
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