Garcia doesn’t expect to play much Sunday

Don't expect to see Jeff Garcia in Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers for very long -- if at all.

Since the Bucs have cemented their spot as the No. 4 seed in the NFC and know they will host the New York Giants in a wildcard playoff game, Garcia has been informed by coach Jon Gruden that he and many other starters could use this week as almost a bye to get ready for the post-season.

"I'm preparing like I'm going to play, but he has expressed the possibility of certain guys not being on the field on Sunday,'' Garcia said. "If he chooses to sit me, that's kind of the punch I have to roll with but I'm preparing to be out there and just go from there.''

Backup quarterback Luke McCown is expected to get the majority of reps this week and play most -- if not all -- of the game Sunday.

A year ago, Garcia played one series for the Philadelphia Eagles in the final regular season game after they had clinched the NFC East.

"I was disappointed I didn't get to play more,'' Garcia said.

"It's one of those things because we don't have the luxury of the bye week, coach wants to approach this week somewhat like that with certain veteran players, who he feels need time to rest, to somewhat recover.''

Garcia said he will begin to also prepare this week for the Giants.