Bucs' Playoff Hopes Hang in Balance as They Face Dolphins in Crucial NFC South Showdown

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Tampa Bay's five-year playoff streak is on the line as they visit the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The Buccaneers need a win to stay in contention for the NFC South title and set up a decisive showdown with Carolina in Week 18. A loss would eliminate them from playoff hopes. The Dolphins, relegated to a spoiler role, will also use this game to evaluate their franchise's future with rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers expected to make his second consecutive start. Ewers will face a Buccaneers team that has been struggling, losing six of their last seven games despite having key offensive starters back. Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles acknowledged the team's recent struggles, saying, 'We just got to play mistake-free football, and we can't worry about losing. We got to play to win.' The Bucs have lost their last three games by four points or fewer, including a 23-20 loss to Carolina last week. Miami's defense, which excelled during a four-game winning streak, has allowed 73 points in their last two games. They will face a Buccaneers offense that has been struggling with penalties and red-zone efficiency. Miami coach Mike McDaniel is looking for growth from Ewers, who completed 20 of 30 passes for 260 yards in his first start but threw two interceptions. The Dolphins may be short-handed on the offensive line with center Aaron Brewer dealing with a neck injury. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, will be without linebacker Anthony Nelson, offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs, and defensive tackle Calijah Kancey. The outcome of this game will have significant implications for both teams' playoff hopes.