Not really, but history shows the odds are in the Bucs favor. 8 times the Bucs have started the first 4 games 3-1 or better and 6 times the Bucs have made the playoffs, that's a 65% record.
The two times the Buccaneers have started 3-1 and have failed to make the playoffs were in 1990 and 1992. 1990 was Ray Perkins last year and as the Bucs started 3-1, they finished 5-11 and were painful to watch. There was very little talent on that team. Vinny Testaverde was on the squad but he had no one surrounding him. In 1992, Sam Wyche came to town and started 3-1 but finished 4-12. Vinny had a bit more talent around him with Reggie Cobb running for 1100 yds and 9 scores while Lawrence Dawsey (FSU grad) and Mark Carrier combined for almost 120 receptions, but only 5 scores. Another team which was painful to watch.
The Bucs history from the mid 1980's to late 1990's is easy to forget so let's look at the 6 years the Bucs made the playoffs after starting 3-1 or better. Four times the Bucs won their division and twice they made the playoffs as wildcard participants.
1979- started 4-0, finished 10-6. Division Champions. (won the NFC Central because of a better conference record than Chicago which also finished 10-6)
This was the season which cemented me as a Bucs fan forever. I remember the criticism of Doug Williams as being he threw the ball too hard. If you liked defense, this was a fun team to watch as they gave up the leagues least points, 237. There wasn't much offense. My hero, Doug Williams, didn't have much to work with. Ricky Bell and Jerry Eckwood ran the ball and the tight end Jimmie Giles was the main target. But, unknown to these players nearly 30 years ago, they were laying the blueprint for Bucs ball in the future, defense first. This team advanced all the way to the NFC Championship game, but lost 9-0 to the Los Angeles Rams, who eventually were routed by the Steelers 31-19 in the Super Bowl.
1997- started 4-0, finished 10-6. Wildcard.
This was the first season of the uniform changes for the Buccaneers from the orange creamsicle look with Bucco Bruce on the helmet to the current Pewter and red with the battle flag pirate look. I love the retro, but the current uniforms are a MAJOR upgrade. Quickest way to get to the playoffs, is a uniform change. (see future post)
Trent Dilfer threw for 2500 yards and 21 scores this season, led the Bucs to a wildcard playoff win 20-10 against Detroit but ultimately lost the divisional game 21-7 in Green Bay.
2000- started 3-1, finished 10-6. Wildcard.
Shaun King got the starting nod after leading the Bucs to the NFC Championship game against the Rams in the previous season. King threw for 2700 yards and 18 touchdowns. The Bucs underwent a 4 game losing streak during the season. Tampa loses to Philly in the Divisional game 21-3.
2002- started 3-1, finished 12-4 (best season record) Division Champions, Super Bowl Champions
This was the first year of the NFL realignment, creating 4 divisions in each Conference. The Buccaneers were moved from the former NFC Central to the NFC South division aligned with Carolina, New Orleans and Atlanta. Brad Johnson threw for 3000 yards and 22 touchdowns against 6 interceptions. The running game only scored 6 touchdowns for the regular season.
In the playoffs, Tampa destroyed San Fransisco 31-6 at home, Philly 27-10 at Philadelphia and Oakland 48-21 in Super Bowl XXXVII.
2005- started 4-0, finished 11-5. Division Champions.
The Bucs started the season 4-0 with a new running back, Carnell (Cadilliac) Williams, who set the 3 game rushing record for a rookie. Brian Griese started the season as 5-1 as a starter but was lost to a season ending injury in the Miami Dolphins game. Chris Simms came on to assume starting QB duties and the Bucs finished the season 11-5. The Bucs lose the game late to the Washington Redskins on a questionable touchdown catch in the south endzone 17-10.
2007- started 3-1, finished 9-7. Division Champions.
In a season filled with injuries, the Bucs finally were able to give significant playing time to a fan favorite, Earnest Graham. Graham was a player known as Mr. August, who received copious playing time during preseason but never during regular season. After injuries to RB Carnell Williams and Michael Pittman, Graham responded with a 898 yard and 10 touchdown effort.
New free agent acquisition quarterback Jeff Garcia threw for 2400 yards and 13 touchdowns, but missed games late in the season. Tampa played the eventual World Champion New York Giants in Tampa during a Divisional playoff game and lost, 24-14.
So, if history is on the Bucs side, we might see the Bucs in the post season this year.
Showing posts with label buccaneers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label buccaneers. Show all posts
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
And then there were Seven.......
So much for my draft prognostications, I only picked 3 draft choices correctly out of the first 15 teams, so I doubt I'll be sitting at the analyst's table at next years event in NYC.
Post draft summary of the Bucs selections; it's too early to tell anything, but on paper (and we all know the game is played on paper) the draft picks looked to be solid to me, I was satisfied.
Talib looks like he might break the mold of the typical Cover 2 corners we've had here in Tampa. I saw the press conference introducing him, and he definitely is excited about coming to Tampa. Draft pundits thought Dexter Jackson was a reach in the second round, only time will tell on this pick. If he turns out to be a dynamic playmaker, he'll be a steal, if not a bust. The Bucs obviously were targeting a collection of similar receivers and since there was a run on them right around the time they selected in the second, they must have thought he'd be off the board shortly so pulled the trigger and selected him. The third round saw the Bucs select Zuttah from Rutgers. A talented offensive lineman who can play every position on the line including center. If he develops, he will provide alot of depth for the Buccos. Tampa selected Dre Moore, DT from Maryland in the forth round, and this might be a huge value pick if he can elevate his game to the next level and be more consistent in his game play. Then in the fifth, Tampa selected a quarterback, yes number 7 on the roster, Josh Johnson from SDSU, a NCAA Division II school. I admit I've never seen him play a game but the YouTube video highlights were pretty exciting to watch. This young man can run a 4.4 40, completed 68% of his passes last year and threw 43 touchdowns against only 1 interception. Granted, SDSU is a small school but he has run an offensive which is very similar to what Coach Gruden uses with the Bucs . He is going to be an interesting prospect. Tampa, in the sixth round, drafted another linebacker from Florida State University who also wore the #10 in college, Geno Hayes (we all know how the last #10 worked out) Hayes has had some academic issues and some run ins with the law, and decided this year to become eligible for the draft as a junior. Prior to the draft, some publications had selected Hayes among the top 5 OLB's of this years draft. Having seen the Free Agent moves by the Bucs this year adding three LB's, I have to say I was surprised by this selection, but he should contribute on special teams, and maybe one day break into the starting lineup, but that remains to be seen. The final selection in the seventh round was a running back. Cory Boyd from South Carolina. Again, YouTube videos reveal some talent. Elusiveness, not great speed, great receiver, some blocking ability. Will be interesting to watch him during training camp and some preseason games.
So what happens with all the quarterbacks? Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Chriss Simms, Bruce Gradkowski, Luke McCown, Josh Johnson and finally the rights to former quarterback now handball player, Jake Plummer. First off, Garcia is the incumbent and should be the starter at this point. Jon Gruden always liked Brian Griese and he was brought back via a trade with the Chicago Bears this off season. I believe Griese would never have left One Buc Place if the team hadn't been so handcuffed with the salary cap a few years ago. Luke McCown showed some flashes this past season, but was making 4-5 questionable plays a game. He showed some scrambling ability and led the team on a comeback against the Saints in a very important late season game. Chris Simms, great kid, great attitude. Questions surround his leadership ability, mobility, whether he can ever flourish in a West Coast Offense system. He's got a great long ball, but so did Jeff George. Simms has earned 7.1 million dollars over the past 2 seasons while only playing in 3 games. Chris has decided that he is going to skip the Bucs voluntary OTA's and reports surfaced this afternoon that teams inquired about a trade for him last weekend in the draft. Bruce Gradkowski. Please, I never want to see "The Polish Popgun" ever take another snap in red and pewter. Finally, Jake Plummer. The Bucs traded for his rights before the start of last season and he refused to report to Tampa, opting to retire instead and play handball. He's now been out of football for over 2 years and should be around 34. Plummer, who has played for Arizona and Denver, often had short bursts of brilliance followed by long periods of mediocrity.
At a post draft presser this week, Gruden responded when asked that the Bucs will take 5 quarterbacks to camp. My guess is that the Bucs will release the rights to Plummer and outright cut Gradkowski. Simms will be shopped, but it would be wise to take him to training camp because you never know when the injury bug will strike and he is familiar with the complex playbook of the Gruden offense. I expect to see him traded around the third week of preseason after he's had a chance to showcase his ability to perform as a quarterback again. Once again, the Bucs should enter the 2008 campaign with 4 quarterbacks on the roster. Garcia, Griese, McCown and Johnson. The see the biggest competition being who will be the number 2.
Dominic Rhodes was released by the Raiders this week. With Williams not due to be ready for training camp or possibly to ever play again and Graham making some noise about a possible holdout, I wouldn't be too disappointed to see him in Tampa soon. Rhodes can still play and would fit our offense nicely. I believe he was on my wish list back in January when I posted the off season needs for the Buccos.
Going into training camp this year, the Bucs should have the most depth we've seen in recent years on the roster. Hopefully, this years draft will continue the recent trend of infusing young, talented players onto this squad.
Post draft summary of the Bucs selections; it's too early to tell anything, but on paper (and we all know the game is played on paper) the draft picks looked to be solid to me, I was satisfied.
Talib looks like he might break the mold of the typical Cover 2 corners we've had here in Tampa. I saw the press conference introducing him, and he definitely is excited about coming to Tampa. Draft pundits thought Dexter Jackson was a reach in the second round, only time will tell on this pick. If he turns out to be a dynamic playmaker, he'll be a steal, if not a bust. The Bucs obviously were targeting a collection of similar receivers and since there was a run on them right around the time they selected in the second, they must have thought he'd be off the board shortly so pulled the trigger and selected him. The third round saw the Bucs select Zuttah from Rutgers. A talented offensive lineman who can play every position on the line including center. If he develops, he will provide alot of depth for the Buccos. Tampa selected Dre Moore, DT from Maryland in the forth round, and this might be a huge value pick if he can elevate his game to the next level and be more consistent in his game play. Then in the fifth, Tampa selected a quarterback, yes number 7 on the roster, Josh Johnson from SDSU, a NCAA Division II school. I admit I've never seen him play a game but the YouTube video highlights were pretty exciting to watch. This young man can run a 4.4 40, completed 68% of his passes last year and threw 43 touchdowns against only 1 interception. Granted, SDSU is a small school but he has run an offensive which is very similar to what Coach Gruden uses with the Bucs . He is going to be an interesting prospect. Tampa, in the sixth round, drafted another linebacker from Florida State University who also wore the #10 in college, Geno Hayes (we all know how the last #10 worked out) Hayes has had some academic issues and some run ins with the law, and decided this year to become eligible for the draft as a junior. Prior to the draft, some publications had selected Hayes among the top 5 OLB's of this years draft. Having seen the Free Agent moves by the Bucs this year adding three LB's, I have to say I was surprised by this selection, but he should contribute on special teams, and maybe one day break into the starting lineup, but that remains to be seen. The final selection in the seventh round was a running back. Cory Boyd from South Carolina. Again, YouTube videos reveal some talent. Elusiveness, not great speed, great receiver, some blocking ability. Will be interesting to watch him during training camp and some preseason games.
So what happens with all the quarterbacks? Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Chriss Simms, Bruce Gradkowski, Luke McCown, Josh Johnson and finally the rights to former quarterback now handball player, Jake Plummer. First off, Garcia is the incumbent and should be the starter at this point. Jon Gruden always liked Brian Griese and he was brought back via a trade with the Chicago Bears this off season. I believe Griese would never have left One Buc Place if the team hadn't been so handcuffed with the salary cap a few years ago. Luke McCown showed some flashes this past season, but was making 4-5 questionable plays a game. He showed some scrambling ability and led the team on a comeback against the Saints in a very important late season game. Chris Simms, great kid, great attitude. Questions surround his leadership ability, mobility, whether he can ever flourish in a West Coast Offense system. He's got a great long ball, but so did Jeff George. Simms has earned 7.1 million dollars over the past 2 seasons while only playing in 3 games. Chris has decided that he is going to skip the Bucs voluntary OTA's and reports surfaced this afternoon that teams inquired about a trade for him last weekend in the draft. Bruce Gradkowski. Please, I never want to see "The Polish Popgun" ever take another snap in red and pewter. Finally, Jake Plummer. The Bucs traded for his rights before the start of last season and he refused to report to Tampa, opting to retire instead and play handball. He's now been out of football for over 2 years and should be around 34. Plummer, who has played for Arizona and Denver, often had short bursts of brilliance followed by long periods of mediocrity.
At a post draft presser this week, Gruden responded when asked that the Bucs will take 5 quarterbacks to camp. My guess is that the Bucs will release the rights to Plummer and outright cut Gradkowski. Simms will be shopped, but it would be wise to take him to training camp because you never know when the injury bug will strike and he is familiar with the complex playbook of the Gruden offense. I expect to see him traded around the third week of preseason after he's had a chance to showcase his ability to perform as a quarterback again. Once again, the Bucs should enter the 2008 campaign with 4 quarterbacks on the roster. Garcia, Griese, McCown and Johnson. The see the biggest competition being who will be the number 2.
Dominic Rhodes was released by the Raiders this week. With Williams not due to be ready for training camp or possibly to ever play again and Graham making some noise about a possible holdout, I wouldn't be too disappointed to see him in Tampa soon. Rhodes can still play and would fit our offense nicely. I believe he was on my wish list back in January when I posted the off season needs for the Buccos.
Going into training camp this year, the Bucs should have the most depth we've seen in recent years on the roster. Hopefully, this years draft will continue the recent trend of infusing young, talented players onto this squad.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Draft day hours away
It's now less than 24 hours before this years NFL draft. Can you feel the electricity? NFL draft geeks have most likely been living on double lattes and red bull for most of this week, fine tuning who they think will go in the 127th pick versus the 128th pick. Oh yes, at this, the holiest of seasons, everyone is a general manager.
No doubt, this draft will be just like each of the last several decades of drafts. There will be quality players free fall, there will be surprise picks, there will be a late round or undrafted free agent who makes a big splash in the league next season. And, when the dust settles, the so called draft experts will rationalize each and every expected and unexpected move. Then, on Monday April 28th, the media sources will report to us fans, the draft grades of each individual teams.
How astonishing. Players which haven't been signed yet, survived training camp without injury or played a down in the NFL yet, but the media is going to hand out grades for teams on the players they chose this weekend. The NFL has really done such a marketing job with this event, it's unreal. They have a contest on their homepage and if you win, you get to go to the draft next year and announce a pick in like the 6th round. OOOOOOOOOOhhhhhh, I better be all over this contest. Lets see, fly to New York, announce the name of some shlep who will most likely be cut after training camp, post a video of me announcing his name while at the podium on YouTube for 2 million people to view, hey, I'm famous, I announced John Sampson from Northern Eastern South Kentucky Community Colleges' name on tv, albeit 312 folks were watching.
So, no, I won't be entering the contest, but here are my final 15 picks, one of them is a lock. (I've got an inside source)
Miami Mullets- Jake Long OT- Michigan. Just got a feeling about this one.
St. Louis Ewes- Rumors were swirling today (imagine rumors during draft week) that New Orleans wants this pick and is willing to trade a second rounder and their starting LOT. I think the Ewes take that trade and move into the 10th spot. America's team from 06 then selects homeboy DT Glen Dorsey from LSU, an hour away from the stadium in Baton Rouge.
Atlanta Pigeons- For you Pigeon fans reading, please be nice to the parking attendants this season. The gentleman wearing the orange vest and guiding you to your spot might just be Rich McKay. Hopefully this will be his last position in "football operations" for a team.
There is no signal caller in the ATL and they make the call for the big guy, Matt Ryan from BC.
Oakland (West Coast Buccaneers) Raiders- So many choices here at this spot. I'm sure Al Davis, who is Keith Richards father, hears the refrains of Time on our side in his head. This guy wants to win NOW. Davis is not buying green bananas at this point and as much as he wants McFadden from Arkansas, they have a serviceable backfield and select the son of a former all-time Raider great, Chris Long from Virginia.
Kansas City Chefs- Remember that great Snickers commercial years back where the grounds crew screws up the name of the Chiefs in the endzone, those were the days......... pre double lattes, and an entire section at the local convience store dedicated to just energy drinks, gas was only 2.00 a gallon, you could buy a cell phone which was JUST a phone.........I digress.
Since Jared Allen is now in the land of 10,000 lakes, the Chefs take Vernon Gholston, DE from THE OSU.
New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS- So at this point and time in the draft, how excited are you Jets fans? So many failures over the years, so many disappointments. Not this year, you select, Darren McFadden, RB Arkansas.
New England Polaroids- Perhaps I should call them the Beta Max, but that would be lost in the translation. Just to irritate me, they select, Mike Jenkins, CB, USF. I wish him great success in the NFL but not not for this team, perhaps when he becomes a free agent.
Edgar Allan Poe's favorite team from Baltimore- McNair is retired, new coach, new regime, new quarterback. Brian Brohm, Louisville
Cincinnati "work release" Bengals- This is a team filled with demons and will be selecting in the top ten again next season. You'd think the coach could tell the players that they are supposed to hit people on the football field, not off the field. Two years ago, I thought this team was going to be knocking on the door of the Super Bowl this past season, today, I think the Lions will get to the Super Bowl before this franchise. They select, Derrick Harvey, DE, from U of F. Just a quick aside here. Do you know how you can find the University of Florida while in Tampa? Take I-75 north and then simply follow the smell.
St Louis Ewes (from a trade with NO) They execute a trade with Nawlins, pick up some picks and still get a quality D-lineman for alot less signing bonus money. Sedrick Ellis, USC.
Toronto Bills- Yes, this is the first NFL team to move to Canada, perhaps the Wilson family is now looking at the currency exchange rate and what was once the Canadian Peso, has quickly become the US Peso. A few games played over there now and then, but given unemployment, it won't take long, perhaps 3 years, and the Bills will be calling Toronto home for good. The NFL is morphing into the NHL. The Toronto Argonauts....errrrr Bills select, Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State.
Denver (why is our airport in another state) Broncos- With the price of food skyrocketing for staples such as rice and wheat, they choose to upgrade the O-Line and go local with OT Ryan Clady from Boise St. Rumor has it he has an in with some potato people which will lower the food costs during training camp and pregame meals.
Carolina Kittycats- Outside of the New England Polaroids, I despise this team. I was happy to see them lose many players from the defensive line this season, and now that Julius Peppers had a mortal season and all his buddies are gone, just how fearsome are they going to be next year?
Defensive needs are a concern, the Pussys take, Keith Rivers, LB USC
Chicago- Safe pick, they select, OT Branden Albert-Virginia who's stock is rising up the boards.
Detroit (I'll take another wide receiver in the first round Alex) Lions- What an enigma this team is. For all of those who wonder why Matt Millen still has a job, ask your self, why did Wayne Fontes keep his job as long as he did? Ah well, Wayne benefited from Barry Sanders, but come on now what's he doing these days? Running a booth in a flea market outside of Beverly Hills Michigan? The Lions will select Mario Manningham WR Michigan. JUST KIDDING, they will select Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon.
As for the beloved Buccos- again there is all sorts of speculation out there in the past few days about teams wanting to trade up into the area where the Bucs are slated to pick in the first round. Miami is one team which has multiple picks and could offer the Bucs a chance for 3 picks in the second round, or perhaps an additional second and third round pick. Since the Bucs only have 5 picks in this years draft, I'm sure that they are entertaining offers.
Then again, another rumor which surfaced is the Bucs are thinking about a trade with the Philadelphia Buzzards for CB Lito Sheppard for the Bucs second round pick and Michael Clayton.
If that happens you give up a high pick for an injury prone player who is only 26 in Sheppard, but Clayton has been just as injury prone as well. In my eyes it's a wash on the players and the loss of a 2nd round pick.
If the Bucs don't trade down in the first round, I feel they will select one of the following three players. Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson-could bookend with Adams nicely. CB Brandon Flowers, or OT Sam Baker from USC.
I do feel as I look back on the Bruce Allen/Jon Gruden regime here, there will be surprises in store this coming weekend for Bucs fans and there will be a few chances to say, WHO did they pick?
Needless to say, I wont be headed to the Big Apple next year to announce anyones draft choice, but lets just see on Monday how my picks went, then we can grade out the draft. Or not.
No doubt, this draft will be just like each of the last several decades of drafts. There will be quality players free fall, there will be surprise picks, there will be a late round or undrafted free agent who makes a big splash in the league next season. And, when the dust settles, the so called draft experts will rationalize each and every expected and unexpected move. Then, on Monday April 28th, the media sources will report to us fans, the draft grades of each individual teams.
How astonishing. Players which haven't been signed yet, survived training camp without injury or played a down in the NFL yet, but the media is going to hand out grades for teams on the players they chose this weekend. The NFL has really done such a marketing job with this event, it's unreal. They have a contest on their homepage and if you win, you get to go to the draft next year and announce a pick in like the 6th round. OOOOOOOOOOhhhhhh, I better be all over this contest. Lets see, fly to New York, announce the name of some shlep who will most likely be cut after training camp, post a video of me announcing his name while at the podium on YouTube for 2 million people to view, hey, I'm famous, I announced John Sampson from Northern Eastern South Kentucky Community Colleges' name on tv, albeit 312 folks were watching.
So, no, I won't be entering the contest, but here are my final 15 picks, one of them is a lock. (I've got an inside source)
Miami Mullets- Jake Long OT- Michigan. Just got a feeling about this one.
St. Louis Ewes- Rumors were swirling today (imagine rumors during draft week) that New Orleans wants this pick and is willing to trade a second rounder and their starting LOT. I think the Ewes take that trade and move into the 10th spot. America's team from 06 then selects homeboy DT Glen Dorsey from LSU, an hour away from the stadium in Baton Rouge.
Atlanta Pigeons- For you Pigeon fans reading, please be nice to the parking attendants this season. The gentleman wearing the orange vest and guiding you to your spot might just be Rich McKay. Hopefully this will be his last position in "football operations" for a team.
There is no signal caller in the ATL and they make the call for the big guy, Matt Ryan from BC.
Oakland (West Coast Buccaneers) Raiders- So many choices here at this spot. I'm sure Al Davis, who is Keith Richards father, hears the refrains of Time on our side in his head. This guy wants to win NOW. Davis is not buying green bananas at this point and as much as he wants McFadden from Arkansas, they have a serviceable backfield and select the son of a former all-time Raider great, Chris Long from Virginia.
Kansas City Chefs- Remember that great Snickers commercial years back where the grounds crew screws up the name of the Chiefs in the endzone, those were the days......... pre double lattes, and an entire section at the local convience store dedicated to just energy drinks, gas was only 2.00 a gallon, you could buy a cell phone which was JUST a phone.........I digress.
Since Jared Allen is now in the land of 10,000 lakes, the Chefs take Vernon Gholston, DE from THE OSU.
New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS- So at this point and time in the draft, how excited are you Jets fans? So many failures over the years, so many disappointments. Not this year, you select, Darren McFadden, RB Arkansas.
New England Polaroids- Perhaps I should call them the Beta Max, but that would be lost in the translation. Just to irritate me, they select, Mike Jenkins, CB, USF. I wish him great success in the NFL but not not for this team, perhaps when he becomes a free agent.
Edgar Allan Poe's favorite team from Baltimore- McNair is retired, new coach, new regime, new quarterback. Brian Brohm, Louisville
Cincinnati "work release" Bengals- This is a team filled with demons and will be selecting in the top ten again next season. You'd think the coach could tell the players that they are supposed to hit people on the football field, not off the field. Two years ago, I thought this team was going to be knocking on the door of the Super Bowl this past season, today, I think the Lions will get to the Super Bowl before this franchise. They select, Derrick Harvey, DE, from U of F. Just a quick aside here. Do you know how you can find the University of Florida while in Tampa? Take I-75 north and then simply follow the smell.
St Louis Ewes (from a trade with NO) They execute a trade with Nawlins, pick up some picks and still get a quality D-lineman for alot less signing bonus money. Sedrick Ellis, USC.
Toronto Bills- Yes, this is the first NFL team to move to Canada, perhaps the Wilson family is now looking at the currency exchange rate and what was once the Canadian Peso, has quickly become the US Peso. A few games played over there now and then, but given unemployment, it won't take long, perhaps 3 years, and the Bills will be calling Toronto home for good. The NFL is morphing into the NHL. The Toronto Argonauts....errrrr Bills select, Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State.
Denver (why is our airport in another state) Broncos- With the price of food skyrocketing for staples such as rice and wheat, they choose to upgrade the O-Line and go local with OT Ryan Clady from Boise St. Rumor has it he has an in with some potato people which will lower the food costs during training camp and pregame meals.
Carolina Kittycats- Outside of the New England Polaroids, I despise this team. I was happy to see them lose many players from the defensive line this season, and now that Julius Peppers had a mortal season and all his buddies are gone, just how fearsome are they going to be next year?
Defensive needs are a concern, the Pussys take, Keith Rivers, LB USC
Chicago- Safe pick, they select, OT Branden Albert-Virginia who's stock is rising up the boards.
Detroit (I'll take another wide receiver in the first round Alex) Lions- What an enigma this team is. For all of those who wonder why Matt Millen still has a job, ask your self, why did Wayne Fontes keep his job as long as he did? Ah well, Wayne benefited from Barry Sanders, but come on now what's he doing these days? Running a booth in a flea market outside of Beverly Hills Michigan? The Lions will select Mario Manningham WR Michigan. JUST KIDDING, they will select Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon.
As for the beloved Buccos- again there is all sorts of speculation out there in the past few days about teams wanting to trade up into the area where the Bucs are slated to pick in the first round. Miami is one team which has multiple picks and could offer the Bucs a chance for 3 picks in the second round, or perhaps an additional second and third round pick. Since the Bucs only have 5 picks in this years draft, I'm sure that they are entertaining offers.
Then again, another rumor which surfaced is the Bucs are thinking about a trade with the Philadelphia Buzzards for CB Lito Sheppard for the Bucs second round pick and Michael Clayton.
If that happens you give up a high pick for an injury prone player who is only 26 in Sheppard, but Clayton has been just as injury prone as well. In my eyes it's a wash on the players and the loss of a 2nd round pick.
If the Bucs don't trade down in the first round, I feel they will select one of the following three players. Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson-could bookend with Adams nicely. CB Brandon Flowers, or OT Sam Baker from USC.
I do feel as I look back on the Bruce Allen/Jon Gruden regime here, there will be surprises in store this coming weekend for Bucs fans and there will be a few chances to say, WHO did they pick?
Needless to say, I wont be headed to the Big Apple next year to announce anyones draft choice, but lets just see on Monday how my picks went, then we can grade out the draft. Or not.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Serenity now, serenity now.......
Following an episode of Seinfeld where George's father finds peace through reiterating the words, serenity now, I've got to say the same to Bucs fans after the start of the free agency period.
I realize the team is 44 million dollars under the cap, and it needs to spend 28 million just to get above the cap floor. But, patience grasshopper. I have full confidence that the front office and Bruce Allen are conducting business in a responsible manner. Buccaneer message boards are all on fire because the Bucs failed to sign every high profile free agent this season in the first 24 hours of free agency. Message boards are a virtual shouting match, made up of mostly teenagers and 20-somethings who exchange insults and play video games believing their outcome will somehow result in reality in the real world.
I realize the team is 44 million dollars under the cap, and it needs to spend 28 million just to get above the cap floor. But, patience grasshopper. I have full confidence that the front office and Bruce Allen are conducting business in a responsible manner. Buccaneer message boards are all on fire because the Bucs failed to sign every high profile free agent this season in the first 24 hours of free agency. Message boards are a virtual shouting match, made up of mostly teenagers and 20-somethings who exchange insults and play video games believing their outcome will somehow result in reality in the real world.
So, right out of the gate for the 08 free agency period, the Bucs sign Jeff Faine. I thought was a great addition. This addition helps to solidify the OL, something which has been a problem in Tampa for a long time. And we all understand, it all starts up front. The Bucs follow that signing up with adding John Gilmore, a large blocking tightend from Chicago, and the the online groans start. The chorus online of "where's the playmakers?" "where's asante samuel? lance briggs? randy moss?"
I assume that reasonable fans will have seen the progress which has been made with this team in regards to the salary cap, and at the same time understand that simply because the team is well under the salary cap, does not mean that the front office needs to be spending money like drunken sailors.
I read a few posts online today regarding the signing of Jimmy Wilkerson, a defensive end. Due to the fact that most everyone has never heard of him, many posting online sounded as if individuals wanted to get in their car, park it atop the Skyway Bridge and jump, next season is lost, Bruce Allen has no idea what he's doing. These comments are from the same folks which thought all would be lost if Monte Kiffin did not resign his contract in January. If everyone thought all was lost if Monte moved on, while he resigned, I'm certain he had input into the signing of Wilkerson. So, stop the car, get off the Bayway or 275, return home. Things will be just fine.
I have alot of faith, albeit blind, in the front office to make the correct decisions. The video game players and message board posters need to go back to their games, and leave reality to those who are in charge, trusting their judgment. Myself, I'm disappointed that we didn't land Henderson or Stallworth, but there is a reason for that. There might be something big right around the corner.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
2007 report card, part 2
The 2007 draft focused on defense. 8 of 10 players selected back in April focused on Monte Kiffens' side of the ball. Many of those players made an impact on this years squad such as Gaines Adams, Quincy Black and Tanard Jackson.
Defensive Line- C-
The overall #1 pick of the Bucs this season, Gaines Adams struggled at the start of the season. Many times looking over-matched, under-sized and playing out of position. But, as the season wore on and injuries took their tool, Adams seemed to ratchet it up a bit but he has to bulk up in the off season. Bucs fans would no doubt love to see Gaines Adams have a second pro season that resembles what Mario Williams did in Houston this year. Kevin Carter was a nice veteran free agent acquisition last season, and from media reports was a leader in the clubhouse. However, his salary this year was over 5 million dollars, and for a team which needs to get younger on defense, does a 35 year old defensive end warrant a huge contract? Greg Spires falls under the same category, soon to be 35 and injured most of this season. Two great reclamation stories this year have been Greg White and Javon Haye. Greg White was a force on the D Line this season, leading the Bucs in sacks and forced fumbles. Last year he was named the arena football league defensive player of the year and worked as a security guard for an Orlando Best Buy store. The only reason he ended up with the squad this year is Coach Grudens' brother was his coach in the arena league. Javon Haye was signed off the Cleveland Browns' practice squad and managed to be a force on the DL as well recovering fumbles and recording 6 sacks.
The unit as a whole needs to be upgraded and create more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Linebackers- B
After the first game of the season, a 20-6 loss in Seattle, Bucs fans and media were questioning whether or not Derrick Brooks had lost a step. Coming off a 2006 season where Brooks looked mortal, Derrick showed up in week 2 and beyond, posting very respectable numbers for the season. The future Hall of Famer was second on the team in tackles behind Barrett Ruud.
Ruud, the second round pick in 2005 out of Nebraska, came into his own this season. To start the first half of the season, Ruud was amazing, being voted NFC defensive player of the month in September. He sort of disappeared late in the season, but on Ronde Barbers' final local radio show, he admitted Barrett was playing hurt for the second half of the season. No doubt Bucs fans are looking forward to Ruud becoming the next great middle linebacker for the team following in the footsteps of Hugh Green and Hardy Nickerson. Free agent acquisition Cato June who came over from the Indianapolis Colts in the offseason, seemed like the perfect fit having played in the Tampa 2 cover defense. He had a great start of the season, but broke his foot the last game of the season and was unavailable for the playoffs.
First year additions Quincy Black and Adam Heyward should be around for a while. Jeremiah Trotter is gone.
Safety- A
The one spot which was sorely lacking defensively last season was good play from the safety positions. 4th round pick, Tanard Jackson was up for defensive rookie of the year, and while he might have taken that honor, in 3 years, should look like one of the steals in the 2007 NFL draft.
Coming in as a cornerback, he was moved to safety and did not disappoint. Jermaine Phillips rebounded as well of a bad showing in 2006. The Bucs drafted to address the safety position and lost their second pick in the second round, Sabby Piscitelli, who immediately drew comparisons to John Lynch based on physical appearance. Bucs fans can look forward to seeing Sabby laying a few hits on opposing teams next year.
Cornerbacks- B-
Last season, CB Brian Kelly went down with an injury and the Bucs tried to plug in a variety of options to replace him. This year, another injury to BK and Phillip Buchanon filled in with success. Ronde Barber started the season needing only 1 interception in order to become the all-time leader in Bucs history and that interception took almost half a season. Second year player and former first round pick, Sammy Davis saw extensive time playing corner, and I'm not sold on the fact he can play corner, maybe in the nickle package, but not a starting corner.
Defensive Line- C-
The overall #1 pick of the Bucs this season, Gaines Adams struggled at the start of the season. Many times looking over-matched, under-sized and playing out of position. But, as the season wore on and injuries took their tool, Adams seemed to ratchet it up a bit but he has to bulk up in the off season. Bucs fans would no doubt love to see Gaines Adams have a second pro season that resembles what Mario Williams did in Houston this year. Kevin Carter was a nice veteran free agent acquisition last season, and from media reports was a leader in the clubhouse. However, his salary this year was over 5 million dollars, and for a team which needs to get younger on defense, does a 35 year old defensive end warrant a huge contract? Greg Spires falls under the same category, soon to be 35 and injured most of this season. Two great reclamation stories this year have been Greg White and Javon Haye. Greg White was a force on the D Line this season, leading the Bucs in sacks and forced fumbles. Last year he was named the arena football league defensive player of the year and worked as a security guard for an Orlando Best Buy store. The only reason he ended up with the squad this year is Coach Grudens' brother was his coach in the arena league. Javon Haye was signed off the Cleveland Browns' practice squad and managed to be a force on the DL as well recovering fumbles and recording 6 sacks.
The unit as a whole needs to be upgraded and create more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Linebackers- B
After the first game of the season, a 20-6 loss in Seattle, Bucs fans and media were questioning whether or not Derrick Brooks had lost a step. Coming off a 2006 season where Brooks looked mortal, Derrick showed up in week 2 and beyond, posting very respectable numbers for the season. The future Hall of Famer was second on the team in tackles behind Barrett Ruud.
Ruud, the second round pick in 2005 out of Nebraska, came into his own this season. To start the first half of the season, Ruud was amazing, being voted NFC defensive player of the month in September. He sort of disappeared late in the season, but on Ronde Barbers' final local radio show, he admitted Barrett was playing hurt for the second half of the season. No doubt Bucs fans are looking forward to Ruud becoming the next great middle linebacker for the team following in the footsteps of Hugh Green and Hardy Nickerson. Free agent acquisition Cato June who came over from the Indianapolis Colts in the offseason, seemed like the perfect fit having played in the Tampa 2 cover defense. He had a great start of the season, but broke his foot the last game of the season and was unavailable for the playoffs.
First year additions Quincy Black and Adam Heyward should be around for a while. Jeremiah Trotter is gone.
Safety- A
The one spot which was sorely lacking defensively last season was good play from the safety positions. 4th round pick, Tanard Jackson was up for defensive rookie of the year, and while he might have taken that honor, in 3 years, should look like one of the steals in the 2007 NFL draft.
Coming in as a cornerback, he was moved to safety and did not disappoint. Jermaine Phillips rebounded as well of a bad showing in 2006. The Bucs drafted to address the safety position and lost their second pick in the second round, Sabby Piscitelli, who immediately drew comparisons to John Lynch based on physical appearance. Bucs fans can look forward to seeing Sabby laying a few hits on opposing teams next year.
Cornerbacks- B-
Last season, CB Brian Kelly went down with an injury and the Bucs tried to plug in a variety of options to replace him. This year, another injury to BK and Phillip Buchanon filled in with success. Ronde Barber started the season needing only 1 interception in order to become the all-time leader in Bucs history and that interception took almost half a season. Second year player and former first round pick, Sammy Davis saw extensive time playing corner, and I'm not sold on the fact he can play corner, maybe in the nickle package, but not a starting corner.
2007 Buccaneer season report card
2007 saw the Buccaneers improve their win total by 5 games over the 2006 debacle.
This years squad showed a sense of unity as younger players started cracking into a lineup of some seasoned veterans. Injuries plagued the team from early on and by seasons end, 15 players found themselves on the IR list. Given all the obstacles, the Bucs managed to go 9-7, winning the NFC South with a 5-1 inter divisional record. Let's take a look and grade out this years squad.
Quarterbacks- Grade B
37 year old Jeff Garcia finally made it to Tampa by way of Cleveland and Philadelphia. He showed fans here in Tampa why Jon Gruden loves this guy so much. Jeff plays the game with such a high level of intensity sometimes you forget he's 37. He finished the season with only 4 interceptions, 3 of them were in one game. I'm sure we'll go into next season with him as the incumbent starter, but how much is left in the tank for the soon to be dad? Luke McCown was available for duty this season after being placed on IR all of 2006's campaign. He showed some flashes of true ability to play quarterback in the Bucs' version of the west coast offense. He will have to get better at his decision making though if he ever becomes the starter. He took sacks in key situations and needs to learn to throw the ball away. For now, a work in progress.
Bruce Gradowski played in the Washington Redskins game when Jeff sustained a back injury on the opening drive. Could we please never see Bruce under center for the Bucco's again?
Chris Simms opened the season on the roster, but it was apparent that he had not recovered from his spleenectomy and as injuries depleted the roster, Simms was moved to IR to clear a space for another player to be brought in. Chris stated this week, he feels healthy and ready to go to camp this summer.
Running Backs- B+
Personally, I give Earnest Graham an A, but the overall unit receives a B+. Carnell Williams went down early in the season with a Patellar tendon injury which he might or might not recover from. During his tenure with the Bucs, he appears to be indecisive at times running the ball and injury prone. After 3 years, it might be time to let go of this former #1 draft choice.
Michael Bennett was brought aboard via a trade for conditional draft choices in 2008 and 2009 from Kansas City. It took a while to get Bennett immersed in the playbook but he showed signs late in the year of his great speed and play making ability. Michael Pittman also suffered injury this season missing a few games down the stretch. Pittman is scheduled to be a free agent in the off-season and one wonders if his huge biceps and hard running style will return to Tampa next season. Fullback BJ Askew proved to be a great free agent pick up last year. Askew is one tough competitor and a hell of a lead blocker. Halfway through the season, he sustained an undisclosed ankle/lower leg injury and would immobilize his foot during the week, only to play on gameday. Ken Darby was resigned to the Bucs the last week of the season. This Alabama product has a quick burst of speed and great pass catching ability, I'd like to see him worked into 5-7 plays a game next year.
Wide Receivers- C-
Joey Galloway once again defied Father Time and posted another 1000 yard season, his third in a row in the pewter and red and a team record. But, when your main deep threat is 36 years old, and no other receiver on the squad strikes fear in opposing defenses, the passing game is going to suffer. Ike Hilliard started the season very strong and at one point looked like he was going to have over 80 receptions but fell short of that mark. Mike Clayton, the former #1 draft choice out of LSU, finished the season with 22 receptions for 301 yards and no touchdowns. He showed such promise in his rookie season but production on the field has steadily dropped over the past few seasons. Although he is a physical force on the field with his blocking ability, it's time for this former first rounder to move on as well. Maurice Stovall, third year player from Notre Dame, really came into his own this season as a special teams player, but was lost for the season in the second Atlanta game with a broken arm. During the pre-season, standout Parris Warren was lost for the year with a brutal ankle injury and it remains to be seen if he can contribute next year. The receiving corps MUST improve next year if this team is going to move forward.
Tight Ends- B+
Early on in the season, Alex Smith showed some signs of elevating his game, but went down with a serious ankle injury, missing several games. Anthony Becht did little for the pass catching aspect of the position but was a solid blocker. Late in the year, Jerramy Stevens got into the gameplan and was effective at using his size against defenders grabbing 12 passes for 156 yards and 4 touchdowns in the final 4 games of the season. Stevens as some off field issues to deal with involving a DUI charge and was suspended by the league for one game this season. Stevens and Becht are both free agents this off season. Stevens should be re-signed.
Offensive Line- B-/C+
Many pundits this season said the Bucs won the division by default because everyone else had such bad seasons. Based on overall division records, the Bucs did not play in the worst division. The point no one seemed to bring up is that Tampa Bay has the youngest offensive line in the NFL. Trueblood and Joseph are in their second season, Aaron Sears is a rookie and Donald Penn was a practice squad player thrust into service when Petitgout went down with a knee injury early on in the year. There were times when the OL showed flashes of brilliance and then others where their youth showed. This group shows great promise for the coming years and we've finally moved past the Kenyatta Walker years.
Special Teams- C
Yes, the Bucs finally returned a kickoff for a score but is Michael Spurlock the future? It seemed that once Mark Jones went down with, what else, a knee injury, the return game was floundering. The punt return game was horrible. Josh Bidwell, the punter, most likely won 2 games for the Bucs this year changing field position when we needed it most. Matt Bryant was sub-par in my estimation. His kickoffs were short, and late in the year, when right around the opponents 30 yardline, Gruden opted to go for it on 4th down.
That's it for the Offense, more later on the defensive side of the ball.
This years squad showed a sense of unity as younger players started cracking into a lineup of some seasoned veterans. Injuries plagued the team from early on and by seasons end, 15 players found themselves on the IR list. Given all the obstacles, the Bucs managed to go 9-7, winning the NFC South with a 5-1 inter divisional record. Let's take a look and grade out this years squad.
Quarterbacks- Grade B
37 year old Jeff Garcia finally made it to Tampa by way of Cleveland and Philadelphia. He showed fans here in Tampa why Jon Gruden loves this guy so much. Jeff plays the game with such a high level of intensity sometimes you forget he's 37. He finished the season with only 4 interceptions, 3 of them were in one game. I'm sure we'll go into next season with him as the incumbent starter, but how much is left in the tank for the soon to be dad? Luke McCown was available for duty this season after being placed on IR all of 2006's campaign. He showed some flashes of true ability to play quarterback in the Bucs' version of the west coast offense. He will have to get better at his decision making though if he ever becomes the starter. He took sacks in key situations and needs to learn to throw the ball away. For now, a work in progress.
Bruce Gradowski played in the Washington Redskins game when Jeff sustained a back injury on the opening drive. Could we please never see Bruce under center for the Bucco's again?
Chris Simms opened the season on the roster, but it was apparent that he had not recovered from his spleenectomy and as injuries depleted the roster, Simms was moved to IR to clear a space for another player to be brought in. Chris stated this week, he feels healthy and ready to go to camp this summer.
Running Backs- B+
Personally, I give Earnest Graham an A, but the overall unit receives a B+. Carnell Williams went down early in the season with a Patellar tendon injury which he might or might not recover from. During his tenure with the Bucs, he appears to be indecisive at times running the ball and injury prone. After 3 years, it might be time to let go of this former #1 draft choice.
Michael Bennett was brought aboard via a trade for conditional draft choices in 2008 and 2009 from Kansas City. It took a while to get Bennett immersed in the playbook but he showed signs late in the year of his great speed and play making ability. Michael Pittman also suffered injury this season missing a few games down the stretch. Pittman is scheduled to be a free agent in the off-season and one wonders if his huge biceps and hard running style will return to Tampa next season. Fullback BJ Askew proved to be a great free agent pick up last year. Askew is one tough competitor and a hell of a lead blocker. Halfway through the season, he sustained an undisclosed ankle/lower leg injury and would immobilize his foot during the week, only to play on gameday. Ken Darby was resigned to the Bucs the last week of the season. This Alabama product has a quick burst of speed and great pass catching ability, I'd like to see him worked into 5-7 plays a game next year.
Wide Receivers- C-
Joey Galloway once again defied Father Time and posted another 1000 yard season, his third in a row in the pewter and red and a team record. But, when your main deep threat is 36 years old, and no other receiver on the squad strikes fear in opposing defenses, the passing game is going to suffer. Ike Hilliard started the season very strong and at one point looked like he was going to have over 80 receptions but fell short of that mark. Mike Clayton, the former #1 draft choice out of LSU, finished the season with 22 receptions for 301 yards and no touchdowns. He showed such promise in his rookie season but production on the field has steadily dropped over the past few seasons. Although he is a physical force on the field with his blocking ability, it's time for this former first rounder to move on as well. Maurice Stovall, third year player from Notre Dame, really came into his own this season as a special teams player, but was lost for the season in the second Atlanta game with a broken arm. During the pre-season, standout Parris Warren was lost for the year with a brutal ankle injury and it remains to be seen if he can contribute next year. The receiving corps MUST improve next year if this team is going to move forward.
Tight Ends- B+
Early on in the season, Alex Smith showed some signs of elevating his game, but went down with a serious ankle injury, missing several games. Anthony Becht did little for the pass catching aspect of the position but was a solid blocker. Late in the year, Jerramy Stevens got into the gameplan and was effective at using his size against defenders grabbing 12 passes for 156 yards and 4 touchdowns in the final 4 games of the season. Stevens as some off field issues to deal with involving a DUI charge and was suspended by the league for one game this season. Stevens and Becht are both free agents this off season. Stevens should be re-signed.
Offensive Line- B-/C+
Many pundits this season said the Bucs won the division by default because everyone else had such bad seasons. Based on overall division records, the Bucs did not play in the worst division. The point no one seemed to bring up is that Tampa Bay has the youngest offensive line in the NFL. Trueblood and Joseph are in their second season, Aaron Sears is a rookie and Donald Penn was a practice squad player thrust into service when Petitgout went down with a knee injury early on in the year. There were times when the OL showed flashes of brilliance and then others where their youth showed. This group shows great promise for the coming years and we've finally moved past the Kenyatta Walker years.
Special Teams- C
Yes, the Bucs finally returned a kickoff for a score but is Michael Spurlock the future? It seemed that once Mark Jones went down with, what else, a knee injury, the return game was floundering. The punt return game was horrible. Josh Bidwell, the punter, most likely won 2 games for the Bucs this year changing field position when we needed it most. Matt Bryant was sub-par in my estimation. His kickoffs were short, and late in the year, when right around the opponents 30 yardline, Gruden opted to go for it on 4th down.
That's it for the Offense, more later on the defensive side of the ball.
And then there were 8
For me, the football season ended last Sunday. 21 games came down to 60 minutes of football and shortly after 4pm on Sunday, depression set in. To me, the feeling is horrible. Sure there are still games to be played, and I'll watch them all, but the rooting interest is gone. I'm pulling for the Jaguars since they are the only team from Florida left in the playoffs, but if they lose tonight's game, the feeling won't be the same. Now, as a Bucs fan, I have grown accustomed to this jilted feeling. 31 other years of disappointment. A series of weeks which culminate in a quick exit from the playoffs, or worse, enduring a season like 2006 when we went 4-12. It's actually taken me a week to come back here to this site and even be able to write about last week. I didn't feel that the Bucs had a strong enough team to make it to the Super Bowl or even to the championship game, but I felt that there would be at least one more game left in the season. There is reason for optimism though after this season. Sure, there are still some issues to be addressed in the off season and depth to be added but there were some great stories this season. Earnest Graham, finally getting his chance to shine. Greg White, going from security guard at Best Buy to arena football and then starring on the defensive line for the Bucs. Tanard Jackson, lighting it up at the safety position. Marvice Stovall, becoming a dominant force on special teams. Finally,Michael Spurlock running a kickoff back for a touchdown after all these years. I nearly dislocated my knee jumping around my parents living room as I watched in disbelief.
Still, that doesn't fill the void left by Post Traumatic Playoff Elimination Syndrome. (I tried looking it up on WebMD, but found nothing) As a fan of the game, the symptoms will get worse on a Sunday night in early February when the realization that the entire season is done and we have to wait another 6 months to start it all over again. Nascar, golf and baseball do not fill the void so, somewhere around June I'll pull out the VHS tape of Super Bowl 37 and watch it again and remember the euphoria I felt that night. Well, we'll always have San Diego.
This week's action sees Indy hosting San Diego, Seattle at Green Bay, Giants at Dallas, and finally Jacksonville facing the Evil Empire.
Some quick takes:
Jacksonvilles' DL is a force and they are running the ball with authority. I like the match up of Maurice Jones-Drew on the New England linebackers. The Jags have been winning on the road and I smell an upset here. Jags win 27-24
Brett Farve has had a tremendous season and said earlier this week that he'd like to return next year. The NFL's version of Cal Ripken silenced alot of critics this year who said he should step down at the end of the 06 campaign. The Packers should handle Seattle easily 27-16
San Diego's critics were questioning the off season firing of head coach Marty Shottenheimer midway into the season, but the Bolts quietly rattled of 6 consecutive wins to finish the season to end up 11-5. It appears that the big tightend Antonio Gates won't be playing due to a serious toe injury. Peyton Manning and crew are focused on a rematch against the Pats and roll easily to a 34-20 win.
I wonder how many Giant's fans have offered to buy Jessica Simpson a ticket for Sunday's game. If Tony Romo has a bad game, you better believe there will be some outcry about Wade Phillips allowing him to go on a weekend jaunt to Cabo San Lucas last week. TO has a high ankle sprain but he says he's ready to go. The Cowboys will be facing the Giants for the third time this season, holding a 2 nothing advantage on them. It's difficult to beat the same team three times in one year, but the Cowboys do it in this weeks closest contest. Dallas wins 24-23.
Coming later will be my breakdown of the Bucs season and suggestions for off season moves.
Happy New year to all.
Still, that doesn't fill the void left by Post Traumatic Playoff Elimination Syndrome. (I tried looking it up on WebMD, but found nothing) As a fan of the game, the symptoms will get worse on a Sunday night in early February when the realization that the entire season is done and we have to wait another 6 months to start it all over again. Nascar, golf and baseball do not fill the void so, somewhere around June I'll pull out the VHS tape of Super Bowl 37 and watch it again and remember the euphoria I felt that night. Well, we'll always have San Diego.
This week's action sees Indy hosting San Diego, Seattle at Green Bay, Giants at Dallas, and finally Jacksonville facing the Evil Empire.
Some quick takes:
Jacksonvilles' DL is a force and they are running the ball with authority. I like the match up of Maurice Jones-Drew on the New England linebackers. The Jags have been winning on the road and I smell an upset here. Jags win 27-24
Brett Farve has had a tremendous season and said earlier this week that he'd like to return next year. The NFL's version of Cal Ripken silenced alot of critics this year who said he should step down at the end of the 06 campaign. The Packers should handle Seattle easily 27-16
San Diego's critics were questioning the off season firing of head coach Marty Shottenheimer midway into the season, but the Bolts quietly rattled of 6 consecutive wins to finish the season to end up 11-5. It appears that the big tightend Antonio Gates won't be playing due to a serious toe injury. Peyton Manning and crew are focused on a rematch against the Pats and roll easily to a 34-20 win.
I wonder how many Giant's fans have offered to buy Jessica Simpson a ticket for Sunday's game. If Tony Romo has a bad game, you better believe there will be some outcry about Wade Phillips allowing him to go on a weekend jaunt to Cabo San Lucas last week. TO has a high ankle sprain but he says he's ready to go. The Cowboys will be facing the Giants for the third time this season, holding a 2 nothing advantage on them. It's difficult to beat the same team three times in one year, but the Cowboys do it in this weeks closest contest. Dallas wins 24-23.
Coming later will be my breakdown of the Bucs season and suggestions for off season moves.
Happy New year to all.
Monday, December 31, 2007
G-Men v Bucs breakdown
If you're a football fan, this is the greatest time of the year. College bowl games on television everyday, and the next stop for the pro game brings the playoffs. Of course, if your favorite team didn't make the playoffs you might not share my enthusiasm. Trust me, last year the Bucs went 4-12 and this year have qualified for the playoffs. With the NFL draft loaded with quality players coming straight out of college, free agency and the ever increasing salary cap, your team might just go from worst to first next year too.
Alright, time to get down to the nuts and bolts of this weekends game. This past Sunday, the Giants played a great game in the national spotlight against the Evil Empire. The Bucco's fielded basically a pre-season team and almost pulled out a win again our arch enemy Kitty Kats from Carolina. There has been an ongoing debate about whether you play starters or rest them. Momentum or no momentum going into the post season tournament. Bucs fans have been very critical of coach Gruden in resting his starters during the past two meaningless games, but yesterday, Seattle, Dallas and Indy all had their starting quarterbacks in during at least the first half, and all those teams lost games. The Evil Empire, Colts, Cowboys and Packers all have bye weeks next week, does this mean all these teams are going to come out rusty? I think not.
Yes, the Bucs have lost 3 of the last 4 games. But at one point this season, they won 5 of 6 games. Going into 1997 post season, the Bucs lost 2 of 3 and advanced to the divisional playoff game vs the Packers. In 2002, Tampa lost 48-21 on a trip to Oakland in the final week of the season, but we all know how that season ended up. (see the world championship ring)
The Bucco fans are quick to argue that the team really hasn't won but one game against a team with a winning record. Actually it's two teams, but what is the Giant's record? 1 win versus a winning record team. Then the high paid sports pundits will easily dismiss the Bucs and follow up their comment by stating they play in the NFL's weakest division. Weakest division huh?
Lets look around the league. The 4 teams of the NFC South combined for a 27-37 win loss record. The NFC and AFC west divisions were both a 26-38 combined record. And surprise, the AFC East which contains the Evil Empire and ESPN's favorite team was 28-36, 1 overall win better than the Bucs division in a division where one team went 16-0.
The Giants are 7-1 on the road, but the Bucs are 6-2 at home (if you consider Sunday's scout team as a loss)
It's not how you start, but how you finish-
In the second half of the season, the G-Men wound up 4-4 and the Bucco's, 5-3. New York scored 176 points and gave up 192. Bucs scored 187 and yielded 136 in the same period. The Giants seem to always start out the season strong, and always coast into the playoffs. In the past, coach Coughlin has been accused by his players of practicing the team too hard and there is nothing left in the players tanks at the end of the season. This year, there seemed to be a new found love affair between coach and players, but the same result. This is a first half/second half team. The Giants were 6-2 at the halfway mark of the season and ended up 10-6. The Giants were leading the Pats Saturday night and ended up losing. In fact in games this year against the Packers, Patriots and twice against the Cowboys, they lead at halftime and then lost the second half by a combined score of 92-39. Never mind the fact Eli Manning has never won a playoff game in his career.
M*A*S*H Unit-
The Bucs have had to re-adjust their roster from week to week this season and wound up week 17 with 14 players on IR. Some key offensive players got a much needed rest Sunday. BJ Askew, which has been a key lead blocker at fullback this season. Joey "the Jet" Galloway, Ike Hilliard with a neck/shoulder injury. Aaron Sears did suffer an ankle injury Sunday and he has started all 16 games this year as a second round draft choice coming out of Tennessee.
The Giants did have a few injuries Saturday night, C Shaun O'Hara and LB Kawika Mitchell both suffered sprained MCLs. And, former Miami Mullet CB Sam Madison suffered an abdominal muscle strain. His injury led to the 65 yard bomb from Brady to Moss to set personal season records.
Game Prediction-
I could go into all the stats here such as, Manning (13 times) and Jacobs (5 times) fumble the ball like crazy, the Bucs are +15 and the Giants are -9 in the turnover ratio, Garcia has only 4 ints this season while Manning has 20, but I'm not going to.
This is how I see this match up playing out. Tiki Barber calls his brother Ronde, and shares a few things about the Giants since he seems to have such a dislike to Tom Coughlin. The Bucs will come to play. Brandon Jacobs creates a problem for the Bucs in the first half of the game, running up the middle for about 70 yards in the first half. The Giants running game opens up some passing by Eli who hits Plaxico Burress for a score right before halftime. 13-10 Bucs. Adjustments are made at halftime and then the Bucs shut down the running game at the start of the 4th quarter when the Bucs are up 19-10, Eli throws a pick on a route Ronde Barber jumps and returns it for a touchdown. Giants score late in the 4th, but the Bucs win 27-17.
Greg White gets 2 sacks and causes 1 fumble. Eli throws two ints and fumbles once. Brandon Jacobs ends the game with 106 yards on 22 carries and one touchdown. Burress-5/66yds, Toomer4-34, Boss 4-56.
The Bucs have game planned the Giants defensive line, which has a league high 53 sacks this year, perfectly. They establish some running game mixed in with three step drops in the passing game and quick slants from the wideouts. I expect to see Bennett in the offensive spread using his speed on draws and trap plays.
Prediction on final stats-
Manning 17-30-240yds 1td 1int
Burress 5-66-1
Toomer4-36
Jacobs 22-106-1
Bradshaw 8-46
Garcia 19-30-217 1 td
Galloway 5-78
Stevens 3-38-1td
Graham-27-98
Bennett-6-34/ 4-42
The final score might be 27-17, but this is going to be much closer than the final score reveals.
Alright, time to get down to the nuts and bolts of this weekends game. This past Sunday, the Giants played a great game in the national spotlight against the Evil Empire. The Bucco's fielded basically a pre-season team and almost pulled out a win again our arch enemy Kitty Kats from Carolina. There has been an ongoing debate about whether you play starters or rest them. Momentum or no momentum going into the post season tournament. Bucs fans have been very critical of coach Gruden in resting his starters during the past two meaningless games, but yesterday, Seattle, Dallas and Indy all had their starting quarterbacks in during at least the first half, and all those teams lost games. The Evil Empire, Colts, Cowboys and Packers all have bye weeks next week, does this mean all these teams are going to come out rusty? I think not.
Yes, the Bucs have lost 3 of the last 4 games. But at one point this season, they won 5 of 6 games. Going into 1997 post season, the Bucs lost 2 of 3 and advanced to the divisional playoff game vs the Packers. In 2002, Tampa lost 48-21 on a trip to Oakland in the final week of the season, but we all know how that season ended up. (see the world championship ring)
The Bucco fans are quick to argue that the team really hasn't won but one game against a team with a winning record. Actually it's two teams, but what is the Giant's record? 1 win versus a winning record team. Then the high paid sports pundits will easily dismiss the Bucs and follow up their comment by stating they play in the NFL's weakest division. Weakest division huh?
Lets look around the league. The 4 teams of the NFC South combined for a 27-37 win loss record. The NFC and AFC west divisions were both a 26-38 combined record. And surprise, the AFC East which contains the Evil Empire and ESPN's favorite team was 28-36, 1 overall win better than the Bucs division in a division where one team went 16-0.
The Giants are 7-1 on the road, but the Bucs are 6-2 at home (if you consider Sunday's scout team as a loss)
It's not how you start, but how you finish-
In the second half of the season, the G-Men wound up 4-4 and the Bucco's, 5-3. New York scored 176 points and gave up 192. Bucs scored 187 and yielded 136 in the same period. The Giants seem to always start out the season strong, and always coast into the playoffs. In the past, coach Coughlin has been accused by his players of practicing the team too hard and there is nothing left in the players tanks at the end of the season. This year, there seemed to be a new found love affair between coach and players, but the same result. This is a first half/second half team. The Giants were 6-2 at the halfway mark of the season and ended up 10-6. The Giants were leading the Pats Saturday night and ended up losing. In fact in games this year against the Packers, Patriots and twice against the Cowboys, they lead at halftime and then lost the second half by a combined score of 92-39. Never mind the fact Eli Manning has never won a playoff game in his career.
M*A*S*H Unit-
The Bucs have had to re-adjust their roster from week to week this season and wound up week 17 with 14 players on IR. Some key offensive players got a much needed rest Sunday. BJ Askew, which has been a key lead blocker at fullback this season. Joey "the Jet" Galloway, Ike Hilliard with a neck/shoulder injury. Aaron Sears did suffer an ankle injury Sunday and he has started all 16 games this year as a second round draft choice coming out of Tennessee.
The Giants did have a few injuries Saturday night, C Shaun O'Hara and LB Kawika Mitchell both suffered sprained MCLs. And, former Miami Mullet CB Sam Madison suffered an abdominal muscle strain. His injury led to the 65 yard bomb from Brady to Moss to set personal season records.
Game Prediction-
I could go into all the stats here such as, Manning (13 times) and Jacobs (5 times) fumble the ball like crazy, the Bucs are +15 and the Giants are -9 in the turnover ratio, Garcia has only 4 ints this season while Manning has 20, but I'm not going to.
This is how I see this match up playing out. Tiki Barber calls his brother Ronde, and shares a few things about the Giants since he seems to have such a dislike to Tom Coughlin. The Bucs will come to play. Brandon Jacobs creates a problem for the Bucs in the first half of the game, running up the middle for about 70 yards in the first half. The Giants running game opens up some passing by Eli who hits Plaxico Burress for a score right before halftime. 13-10 Bucs. Adjustments are made at halftime and then the Bucs shut down the running game at the start of the 4th quarter when the Bucs are up 19-10, Eli throws a pick on a route Ronde Barber jumps and returns it for a touchdown. Giants score late in the 4th, but the Bucs win 27-17.
Greg White gets 2 sacks and causes 1 fumble. Eli throws two ints and fumbles once. Brandon Jacobs ends the game with 106 yards on 22 carries and one touchdown. Burress-5/66yds, Toomer4-34, Boss 4-56.
The Bucs have game planned the Giants defensive line, which has a league high 53 sacks this year, perfectly. They establish some running game mixed in with three step drops in the passing game and quick slants from the wideouts. I expect to see Bennett in the offensive spread using his speed on draws and trap plays.
Prediction on final stats-
Manning 17-30-240yds 1td 1int
Burress 5-66-1
Toomer4-36
Jacobs 22-106-1
Bradshaw 8-46
Garcia 19-30-217 1 td
Galloway 5-78
Stevens 3-38-1td
Graham-27-98
Bennett-6-34/ 4-42
The final score might be 27-17, but this is going to be much closer than the final score reveals.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After 1865 kickoffs, the futility has ended for the Bucs. Sunday, a player no one knew of a month ago, Michael Spurlock has engraved his name in Buccaneer legacy. The first player to return a kickoff for a touchdown. It looked as if he might break one last week, but we've seen those flashes before. Holding calls, illegal blocks in the back, stepping out of bounds, all the things we've grown accustomed to in Bucsland, but not this Sunday. THANK GOD. I'm no longer going to have to listen to some third tier Fox Sports broadcasters bring that stat up each and every week. Is it just me or does Michael Spurlock look alot like Chris Rock?
Going into this season, there was alot of media coverage about Gruden being on the hotseat this year. Granted, I'm critical about Gruden and the Bucs front office, but even those which are the most skeptical should acknowledge that this years coaching job and front office moves have been the finest job done by the Gruden/Allen duo. During the off season there were some questionable moves. Kevin Carter. 13 years in the league, how much gas is left in the tank? Ryan Sims, former first round underachieving pick from Kansas City. Javon Haye- who? The release of Simeon Rice. Greg White, head of Best Buy security in Orlando. As this season has progressed, this unit has really come together. There is still some work to be done, but Monte Kiffin has rotated the front four in and out of the game and down the stretch these guys are really coming on. Greg White is a forced fumble and sack machine. Sign him now to a long term contract.
Some random thoughts on this week's contest.
Michael Bennett finally saw some action. Albeit at the later stage of the game and the happless Falcons defense had been on the field for what seemed like an eternity, but he looked good. We are going to need him to get some touches in the playoffs, world class speed. I look forward going into next season with an EG and MB backfield.
Michael Spurlock was a college quarterback. Buffalo's return man this year, Josh Cribbs was a quarterback in college as well. A trend emerging?
Is Ronde Barber not one of the best big play cornerbacks in the league in the months of December and January?
Did Bruce "The Polish Pop-gun" Gradkowski actually orchestrate a drive where there was a first down? I really don't want to see him take another snap in the pewter and red.
I believe the Bucs controlled the clock for a team record, non-overtime game. The record was 42:14 vs Washington 12/4/1994.
If given a 16 game season, Earnest Graham could challenge the Bucs single season rushing record of 1544 put up by James Wilder in 1984. Wilder that year also set the team rushing td record of 13. That record could fall this year if EG gets some touches in the next two games.
EG also set a team record today with 6 straight games scoring a rushing td. He passed Errict Rhett in 1995.
Brett Farve breaks Dan Marino's all time passing yardage. If the Bucs don't make it to the Super Bowl, I'm rooting for the Pack.
The Lions. Good lord. The Bolts put up 51 points on Detroit. I guess no one will mistake Jon Kitna for Joe Namath. 10 wins huh? Yeah. Maybe there will be a great wide reciever available in the first round of the draft next year for you to draft. And how the hell did we lose to these bums?
The Mullets. How could you screw up the perfect season...........and WIN???? Here's to Jason Taylor wearing pewter and red next season.
Buzzards beat the Cowpokes. I predicted it here yesterday. Tony Romos' love interest, Jessica Simpson was looking a bit nappy up in the skybox seat. I wonder if she's figured out that whole tuna fish in a can thing yet?
J-ville taking down the Steelers, predicted it here too. Watch out for this team in the post season. Great running game, nasty D-Line, can win on the road. This team is going to make some noise in the playoffs this year.
Okay, I've gloated about some of the upsets I predicted, but I have to address some of the picks I made which fell flat.
Pats/Jets. This team will go 16-0. Dammit.
Seattle/Carolina Kittys- Who knew Mandy Moore could play quarterback?
GB/Rams- Pack on the road, in a dome, I love green eggs and ham
Ravens/Mullets- Stover misses the kick? Gimme a break.
Cards/America's new favorite team from last year- Brees was red hot 26-30
One thing to keep in mind Bucs fans. Once the playoffs start, we are 4 wins away from a world championship!
Going into this season, there was alot of media coverage about Gruden being on the hotseat this year. Granted, I'm critical about Gruden and the Bucs front office, but even those which are the most skeptical should acknowledge that this years coaching job and front office moves have been the finest job done by the Gruden/Allen duo. During the off season there were some questionable moves. Kevin Carter. 13 years in the league, how much gas is left in the tank? Ryan Sims, former first round underachieving pick from Kansas City. Javon Haye- who? The release of Simeon Rice. Greg White, head of Best Buy security in Orlando. As this season has progressed, this unit has really come together. There is still some work to be done, but Monte Kiffin has rotated the front four in and out of the game and down the stretch these guys are really coming on. Greg White is a forced fumble and sack machine. Sign him now to a long term contract.
Some random thoughts on this week's contest.
Michael Bennett finally saw some action. Albeit at the later stage of the game and the happless Falcons defense had been on the field for what seemed like an eternity, but he looked good. We are going to need him to get some touches in the playoffs, world class speed. I look forward going into next season with an EG and MB backfield.
Michael Spurlock was a college quarterback. Buffalo's return man this year, Josh Cribbs was a quarterback in college as well. A trend emerging?
Is Ronde Barber not one of the best big play cornerbacks in the league in the months of December and January?
Did Bruce "The Polish Pop-gun" Gradkowski actually orchestrate a drive where there was a first down? I really don't want to see him take another snap in the pewter and red.
I believe the Bucs controlled the clock for a team record, non-overtime game. The record was 42:14 vs Washington 12/4/1994.
If given a 16 game season, Earnest Graham could challenge the Bucs single season rushing record of 1544 put up by James Wilder in 1984. Wilder that year also set the team rushing td record of 13. That record could fall this year if EG gets some touches in the next two games.
EG also set a team record today with 6 straight games scoring a rushing td. He passed Errict Rhett in 1995.
Brett Farve breaks Dan Marino's all time passing yardage. If the Bucs don't make it to the Super Bowl, I'm rooting for the Pack.
The Lions. Good lord. The Bolts put up 51 points on Detroit. I guess no one will mistake Jon Kitna for Joe Namath. 10 wins huh? Yeah. Maybe there will be a great wide reciever available in the first round of the draft next year for you to draft. And how the hell did we lose to these bums?
The Mullets. How could you screw up the perfect season...........and WIN???? Here's to Jason Taylor wearing pewter and red next season.
Buzzards beat the Cowpokes. I predicted it here yesterday. Tony Romos' love interest, Jessica Simpson was looking a bit nappy up in the skybox seat. I wonder if she's figured out that whole tuna fish in a can thing yet?
J-ville taking down the Steelers, predicted it here too. Watch out for this team in the post season. Great running game, nasty D-Line, can win on the road. This team is going to make some noise in the playoffs this year.
Okay, I've gloated about some of the upsets I predicted, but I have to address some of the picks I made which fell flat.
Pats/Jets. This team will go 16-0. Dammit.
Seattle/Carolina Kittys- Who knew Mandy Moore could play quarterback?
GB/Rams- Pack on the road, in a dome, I love green eggs and ham
Ravens/Mullets- Stover misses the kick? Gimme a break.
Cards/America's new favorite team from last year- Brees was red hot 26-30
One thing to keep in mind Bucs fans. Once the playoffs start, we are 4 wins away from a world championship!
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