This time last week the Atlanta Falcons were heading into a pivotal week two match-up, and slated to be missing many of their key players. Today the story is much brighter as starting center Todd McClure returned to practice among others. For Tampa Bay the team practiced Wednesday without starting strong-side linebacker Quincy Black, and are continuing to be without slot receiver/kick returner Sammie Stroughter who needed minor surgery on his foot roughly a week ago.
Atlanta Falcons
QB Matt Ryan (knee) - Limited
DT Jonathan Babineaux (knee) - DNP
CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring) - DNP
WR Roddy White (knee) - Limited
DE Ray Edwards (foot) - Limited
C Todd McClure (knee) - Limited
S Shann Schillinger (neck) - Full
DT Corey Peters (back) - Full
LB Quincy Black (ankle) - DNP
T James Lee (knee) - DNP
TE Kellen Winslow (not injury related) - DNP
WR Sammie Stroughter (foot) - DNP
While there are some big names on Atlanta's report I wouldn't worry too much. After all, this is only mid week and the prime time for teams to hold out players as precautionary measures. Now, if we see Matt Ryan, Roddy White or Ray Edwards listed as 'limited' on Friday, I'd be a little concerned, but for now let's chalk it up to being careful.
Similarly for Tampa Bay their report looks a lot worse that it really is. Black was speaking with reporters today following practice, which is typically a good sign; teams tend to hide players when their injuries are serious. I believe holding him out was a precautionary measure and little more. Similarly, James Lee's injury doesn't appear to be major, and Kellen Winslow should be back in a day or two.
With the exception of the aforementioned Stroughter, or Falcons' DT Jonathan Babineaux who was expected to miss this week, we are set for two healthy teams to meet up this Sunday in their divisional game. Anything can happen in the NFC South, so this should be an excellent battle with one team walking away with a losing record on the season.
For more on the Falcons visit The Falcoholic. For more on the Bucs visit Bucs Nation.