Doug Martin likely out tonight against Falcons

Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) runs with the ball during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) runs with the ball during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to travel to Atlanta to face off with the Falcons for the National Football League’s Thursday Night Football matchup.  At this point however, it looks like they will once again have to do so without the talents of their bell cow running back.

More from NFL

Ian Rapoport is reporting that it appears Doug Martin is unlikely to play tonight against the Falcons due to his knee injury.  He is expected to test out the injury during pre game warmups however.

It’s not great news for a Buccaneers team badly in need of a win.  However, it’s not all bad either.  Tampa Bay employs one of the better backup running backs in the league in Bobby Rainey, and he once again rose to the occasion last week.

Rushing for 144 yards on 22 carries against the St. Louis Rams, Rainey helped to take the place of Doug Martin against one of the better defenses in the NFL.  If there is a bright spot going into tonight for the Buccaneers, it is that the Atlanta Falcons defense is nothing to be afraid of.

Recently, Mark Ingram, Giovani Bernard, and Jeremy Hill have all gashed the Falcons defense for big games.

For fantasy purposes, Rainey may be a dicey play.  Although Martin is unlikely to play, there are no guarantees until he is officially ruled out.  We already know what Madden 15 thinks of tonight’s game, but make sure to tune in to see if Tampa Bay can grab their first win.

More from FanSided

Madden 15: Week 3 simulations and predictions
Is Todd Gurley destined to be an NFL star?
College Football Week 4 preview and predictions
NFL Armchair quarterback guide to Week 3

A.J. Green sits out of practice, likely to play