THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

TAMPA, Fla. -- Tampa Bay quarterback Jeff Garcia is out of Sunday's home opener against Atlanta because of a sprained ankle. He will be replaced by veteran backup Brian Griese.

Garcia was injured during the fourth quarter of last Sunday's 24-20 loss to the New Orleans Saints.

The former CFL star missed most of training camp and three pre-season games because of a strained right calf, and his preparation for the season opener was affected by a jammed pinkie finger on his throwing hand.

Coach Jon Gruden said Wednesday he hoped Garcia sitting out this week's game against the Falcons will allow the 38-year-old Garcia to get healthy "physically and emotionally."

Garcia completed 24 of 41 passes for 221 yards, one touchdown and one interception against the Saints.