2005 Prius Front Lower Grill - Do I need to remove the bumper

I hit a opossum going about 49 (45 mile an hour zone) and damaged the lower front grill. No chance to do anything. Flash of white and thump. Did some cracking to the bumper cover itself but minor. Damage to the grill is bad enough that I don't think I can put it back. Perfectly drivable otherwise. Removed the middle section but left the fog light covers in place. Ordered a new lower grill from eBay. They are all of $25. Mine is the version with fog lights.

Videos I saw online have me remove the bumper cover but there were discussions on the video that you don't have to. Can the grill be replaced without doing so? Will if I have to but likely be a project for next Tuesday because it is a full day off.