Report: Stafford expected to start vs. Bucs despite hand injury

It appears as though the Detroit Lions will have their leader for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as a source told Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network that Matthew Stafford will start, barring an unforeseen setback to his injured hand.

Stafford suffered the injury in last week's loss to the Baltimore Ravens, leaving his status for Sunday's contest with the Buccaneers up in the air.

His availability is essential for the Lions as their playoff hopes are teetering on extinction heading into Sunday. Stafford has the 10th-highest quarterback rating in the league this season, and sits fifth with 22 touchdown passes on the campaign. With the Lions struggling to run the ball yet again this season, Stafford will need to be on his game to make a push for the playoffs.