Bowles Says He Will Be OK After Helmet Hit

Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said he would be OK after a celebratory helmet struck him in the stomach during the team’s 24-16 win over the Dallas Cowboys on October 8. The explanation was relayed by ESPN reporter Jenna Laine, who said she had contacted Bowles after footage of him crouching on the sideline prompted concern among viewers. The broadcast showed Bowles dropping to one knee and grimacing late in the game as Tampa Bay ran down the clock. Laine reported that Bowles told her he had caught a helmet during the celebration and expected to be fine. The supplied reports do not identify who delivered the hit, and no medical assessment was described. The incident occurred during a victory that ended Tampa Bay’s four-game losing streak. The Buccaneers had opened the season 0-4 before beating Dallas at AT&T Stadium. Bowles was seen celebrating with the team after the game, and he also spoke with reporters afterward, though he was not asked about the moment, according to one account. Tampa Bay built a 24-10 lead before Dallas made the finish closer. The Cowboys drove 99 yards for a touchdown after stopping the Buccaneers on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line.