Buccaneers-Eagles: Red Zone Means Stop For Bucs

It was a game that surprised no one. The Philadelphia Eagles made big plays, blitzed young Josh Johnson unmercifully and went on to a dominating 33-14 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

What will be frustrating for the Bucs on Monday when the coaches review the tape will be the missed opportunities. The Buccaneers travelled deep into Philadelphia territory six times but ended up with only two scores.

Two of the drives, Raheem Morris elected to not go for the makeable field goal with new kicker Shane Andrus, and went for it on fourth down. On the first one, the Bucs made like Georgia Tech and ran the option. Yes … in the NFL, they ran the option. As you’d expect, it failed miserably.

The second time Josh Johnson bobbled the snap and just barely recovered it. The play would have to be reviewed as an Eagle player ripped the ball from Johnson and raced for a touchdown. Luckily for the Bucs, it would be called back. It wouldn’t matter, as three plays later Donovan McNabb got the Eagles into the end zone.

The other two chances in the red zone, Johnson had passes deflected and intercepted by the Eagles, killing scoring chances.

Today, you can point the finger at young Josh Johnson if you want, but the truth is Johnson was victimized by his teammates.

Michael Clayton, who was whining earlier in the week about not getting enough opportunities, was simply horrible. He started the game by giving up on route on the first play of the game. Johnson went deep to him, but Clayton couldn’t get back in gear to get to the ball.

Clayton followed that up by dropping four balls, and not doing much for his quarterback.

Antonio Bryant didn’t help either, dropping two key third down catches, but he at least rebounded to haul in a total of 62 yards on five catches.

The one guy that did come to play on offense was Kellen Winslow, finally showing why the Buccaneers paid him handsomely in the off-season. Winslow pulled down nine catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns, giving his young quarterback a big, physical target.

For the Bucs defense, it was another game of mostly good plays, but a few were excruciatingly bad.

Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb made his triumphant return to the lineup, tossing 264 yards and three touchdowns. Statistically, it was one of the Bucs defense’s better performances. They held the Eagles to just 324 yards of total offense.

Still, the big plays were all over the field for the Eagles.

McNabb to Maclin for a 51-yard score. McNabb to Leonard Weaver for 20 yards. Another McNabb to Maclin score from 40 yards.

Three plays, 21 points, and really the difference in the game.

When the Bucs reach the end of the 2009 season, they’re really going to have to reevaluate this new defensive style.

For over a decade, the Bucs were one of the best defenses in the league running the Tampa 2 based defense. When making so many changes, you’d think they would at least keep the Tampa 2. That would have made it an easier transition for the young players tutored by Derrick Brooks and others in the nuances of the defense.

Instead of continuing the tradition, they completely switch the defensive style and the results continue to be catastrophic.

Couple that with the uneven play calling of Greg Olsen on offense, the questionable decision by Raheem Morris to forgo field goal chances in the first half, and a terrible decision by special teams coach Rich Bisaccia to squib kick late in the first half; you can hold the coaching staff as responsible as the players for this one.

Bottom line, the Eagles made plays, the Buccaneers didn’t. That’s your ball game.

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Buccaneers-Eagles Preview: Because We Have To

The title of this article may seem a little strange. It’s because we honestly do not have a choice when it comes to giving a preview of the Week 5 showdown between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Philadelphia Eagles.

We’ve made that commitment to you, our beloved reader, that we will give you a preview of the Bucs’ next opponent, even if it proves to be a game so lopsided that the Bucs probably shouldn’t even bother showing up.

Raheem’s team will show and the game (barring any unforeseen circumstances) will be played. Thus, we need to do our part and give you the hard hitting analysis that keeps you coming back.

Series: 7-7 (including playoffs). Tampa Bay has won the last three meetings.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Attack against Philadelphia Eagles Pass Defense

Josh Johnson makes his second start of his NFL career against the Eagles, the No. 3-ranked defense in the NFL (number two against the pass). Welcome to the NFL, kid.

Under Johnson, the Bucs offense lacked the deep ball, bringing back memories of the immortal Bruce Gradkowski, but that might bold well for the Bucs.

The last time Tampa Bay and Philadelphia met, Gradkowski was the quarterback and led the Bucs to a game-winning drive.

Still, if Johnson can’t get the ball downfield, the Bucs have no chance to establish a running game, as the Eagles will begin to bring that eighth and ninth man in the box to shut down the run.

Advantage: Philadelphia

 

Tampa Bay Running Attack vs. Philadelpia Eagles Run Defense

Without Pro Bowl caliber center Jeff Faine, establishing the run has been a challenge for the Buccaneers. With a young quarterback, getting the running game established is crucial for the Bucs to have a chance to win.

The good news for the Bucs is that if their is a chink in the Eagles top five defensive armour its the run defense (giving up 106.5 yards per game). Derrick Ward will also be back for the Bucs to help bolster the running game.

Advantage: Philadelphia

 

Philadelphia Eagles Passing Game vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pass Defense

Coming off the bye week, the Eagles have had the opportunity to get healthy. Lucky for the Bucs, huh?

The walking wounded included Pro Bowl QB Donovan McNabb, who will be back at the helm with something to prove. Young Kevin Kolb filled in well for McNabb and Donovan’s going to want to reestablish himself as the Eagles’ top guy.

DeSean Jackson has been a big-time weapon in the passing game for the Eagles and we all know how the Bucs have struggled with the big play against their defense.

The Bucs will need to put a lot of pressure on McNabb and force him into turnovers. Ronde Barber has been McNabb’s nemesis for some time now. The Bucs will need Barber to make some big plays against him again.

The Bucs secondary gets a boost with the return of hard-hitting safety Tanard Jackson.

The passing game has helped Philadelphia have the second ranked scoring offense, averaging 31.3 points per game.

Advantage: Philadelphia

 

Philadelphia Eagles Running Game vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Run Defense

With LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook, the Philadelphia Eagles have a tandem of backs that are as dangerous in the passing game as they are running the football.

That’s not saying these guys aren’t dangerous. Both are averaging over four yards a carry and have the speed to break one at any time.

Meanwhile, Tampa Bay may have gotten a little better in their run defense, doing well in containing Clinton Portis last week against the Redskins.

The Eagles really don’t emphasize their running game so the Bucs may be able to do well again.

Beware of Michael Vick in the wildcat formation.

Advantage: Push

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Special Teams vs. Philadelphia Eagles Special Teams

Tampa Bay has the advantage in coverage and return yardage but the biggest difference in the special teams units is the kicking game.

Philadelphia has the automatic David Akers while Tampa Bay has Shane Andrus playing in his first NFL game as a team’s primary kicker.

Sav Rocca and Dirk Johnson are about a push as punters.

Advantage: Push

 

Intangibles

Andy Reid is 10-0 after a bye week.

The Bucs are 4-5 in Philadelphia, including two straight wins.

Both teams do a good job with turnovers, Philadelphia is a +2 while Tampa Bay is a +1.

Advantage: Philadelphia

 

Coaching

Andy Reid is in his 11th season as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. Reid is going after his 100th victory as a head coach. He is 99-63-1.

Raheem Morris is in his first season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is still seeking his first victory as an NFL Head Coach at 0-3.

Advantage: Philadelphia

 

Prediction: We thought the match up between the Bucs and Giants was one-sided, but that’s nothing compared to the disadvantage in match ups facing the Buccaneers in Philadelphia.

If the Bucs remain in the ballgame going into the fourth quarter, it’s a victory. That’s not to say we think the Bucs win the game if they’re in the fourth quarter, it means we think it’s a heck of a statement for the improvement of the Bucs if they’re still in the ballgame.

A victory in Philadelphia could very well change the fortunes of Raheem Morris and the direction of the franchise.

Unfortunately, the chances of the Buccaneers pulling off the upset are slim and none and slim just left to visit the Rocky statue.

Final Score: Philadelphia 35, Tampa Bay 3

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Buccaneers-Redskins: Tampa Bay Snags Defeat From The Jaws Of Victory

The defense was stuffing the run, sacking the quarterback, and causing turnovers. The offense was running the ball well and a young quarterback was playing well. It felt like old times for one half of play…but then reality came crashing down on the winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Bucs lost their eighth consecutive game, fourth this season and fell short in their upset bid of the equally inept Washington Redskins, 16-13, wasting a rare, but solid performance from the Buccaneer defense.

First thing’s first.

Mike Nugent, you are the weakest link, good bye. Nugent missed his first two makable attempts and finished with two short fields to go 2-for-4 on the day—but let’s face it folks, he’s horrible.

Bucs GM Mark Dominik needs to be on the horn with Matt Bryant and see if the veteran is ready to kick because Nugent needs to take another flight home.

Next, is it too late to fire Greg Olsen? Olsen called a horrible offensive game plan today, not utilizing the mobility of his young quarterback Josh Johnson—especially in third and short or in the red zone. How about a roll out giving Johnson a run-pass option, coach? Somewhere Mike Shula is looking like Sean Payton.

Not to mention, why the heck was Clifton Smith—who touched the ball once all day—in the ball game instead of Cadillac Williams or Earnest Graham?

Oh and before I forget, Mr. Morris, I think I’ll be writing that article this week on how the Bucs made a terrible decision giving that big contract to Michael Clayton. Clayton couldn’t catch a disease in an  Ebola ward.

Aqib Talib, nice game young man but the good vibes of a rare three pick day get wasted when you give up a 59 yard touchdown. Still, good game for the young kid.

Hey everyone, there was a Gaines Adams sighting! A sack, a fumble recovery, five tackles. Unfortunately, most of that was in the first half—his name wasn’t called in the second half. Do that more consistently Mr. Adams and maybe that bust label will wear off.

Not to harp on the coaching, but at halftime with the Bucs leading 10-0, obviously the Redskins made some adjustments to adjust what the Bucs were doing. Meanwhile the Bucs seemed to make no adjustments and it cost them.

A 16-point third quarter ruined a solid defensive performance. Three sacks, four turnovers, and 277 yards allowed. Clinton Portis just missed a 100-yard game but he carried the ball 25 times.

Really, this latest defeat rests on the play of the offense. Johnson didn’t play poorly, but truth be told (as it always is here in this column), he looked like an option quarterback, pulling down and running. Once the Redskins got wise to Johnson’s inability to push the ball down field, they brought up their defenders to bottle up the run.

229 total yards and 2-for-13 on first downs is not going to get the job done.

Managing just 13 points, especially when the Tampa Bay defense set your offense on short fields throughout the day is not going to get the job done.

If the Bucs can’t get more production from the quarterback position then the murmurs of a winless season will begin to get louder.

Not to mention, maybe, just maybe you should go over clock management during the two-minute drill with the kid. Seconds bled of the clock as Johnson took too long to get his team set.

Considering the Washington Redskins aren’t the New York Giants, the Buccaneers at least showed some improvement, especially on defense. Only one big play against the defense ruined what could have been a superior, old school Bucs defensive effort.

Offensively and special teams…meh.

As you look at the schedule, you begin to wonder where this team can win a game? I would be shocked if they beat the Eagles next week, as would the rest of the nation.

Carolina at home?

Not unless Greg Olsen can get his offense working. Perhaps Mark Dominik has Mike Shula on speed dial as well.

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Tampa Bay Bucs: Is Ownership Putting Resources Into The Club?

ESPN.com’s Pat Yasinskas put together an interesting article (Cheapskates? No, Bucs actually have a plan) on the Bucs’ owners, the Glazers, and how the view around the league that the Buccaneers have gone cheap is unwarranted.

It’s an fascinating tale, detailing the Bucs new frugal approach after a period in salary cap hell, and how the Bucs actually have been doling out big contracts to Kellen Winslow, Michael Clayton, Derrick Ward, and others.

It’s true that the Buccaneers haven’t been “Culverhousian” in their approach to paying players and bringing in talent, still that doesn’t tell the entire story.

If you look at the contract signed by Buccaneer players over the last couple years, very few have signing bonuses.

What does that mean? It clearly is evidence that the Glazer family does not have the upfront liquidity to fund large bonuses.

While Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is fond of saying that the Bucs offered him more money, you have to wonder if he’s speaking of the overall contract.

Perhaps in this one instance, the Glazers decided to pool their resources, and bite the bullet to get Haynesworth. Or more logically, perhaps the reason Haynesworth really chose the Skins wasn’t because of the beaches and other distractions of Florida, but the fact that there was more upfront money in the Redskins deal.

So what’s happening? Since 2004, when the Glazer family purchased Manchester United football (soccer to us Yanks) club for a reported $1.47 billion dollars, spending for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers substantially subsided.

As Yasinskas pointed out, part of that was due to the Bucs awful salary cap situation. However, the Bucs came out of cap hell by 2006. That doesn’t excuse them for spending the least of any franchise in the league, over the past three years.

Yasinskas also doesn’t mention that of all the teams in the National Football League, the Buccaneers are among the most profitable, because of the sweat-heart lease they have at Raymond James Stadium.

Essentially, the Bucs practically play there for free, and get all concession money for any event held in the stadium. That’s why USF has considered building their own stadium, and the Tampa Bay Muntiny MLS team went out of business (well that and soccer sucks, but I digress).

The Bucs also take part in NFL revenue sharing, getting millions.

So where is all that money going? Well, it’s definitely not going into the franchise. The interest payment alone on the ManU purchase (reportedly £62 million or $98 million US a year) is staggering. You’d have to imagine that the money, any money, the Glazers can get their hands on goes to that figure.

If the Glazers await returns from the NFL, and Raymond James Stadium, to make payroll for the Buccaneers, than here’s the problem—that money isn’t there until the football season starts. It makes the Bucs unable to pay huge signing bonuses for players.

The Bucs’ payroll stays low because they can’t be in the market for those top free agents, unless the Glazers pull from Manchester United. If they did that, they would need armored cars and bullet proof windows to keep the crazies away from them.

Manchester United is beloved throughout the world. There would be no where the Glazers would be safe if ManU fans, who already hate the idea that Americans own the club, think the Glazers are taking money that could be used for those ridiculous transfer fees in the Premier League.

With the firing of Bruce Allen and Jon Gruden, the Bucs daily books look a bit better. Certainly, the Bucs do have to pay out the remainder of those contracts, but on the flipside, the Bucs now have one of the lowest paid coaching staffs in the league.

With one of the lowest player payrolls in the league, and administrative staff being laid off, the Bucs are probably looking the most profitable they have ever been in their existence.

Potential buyers would be greatly interested in such a high profit property.

If I were a betting man, I’d say the Glazers have put the Bucs on the market, but the economy is suspect now, and it’s making it difficult to find suitors that would meet the Glazers’ price tag.

The need to sell may get urgent. At one point the Buccaneers had a 100,000 person waiting list for season tickets. Now the Glazers are offering half-season packages just to get people in the stands. None of the games are sold out, (although the first two games did eventually have the blackout lifted) and there’s a great danger that the Bucs may start seeing crowds in the 30s, 40s and 50,000s—something that hasn’t happened here since 1996.

If the Glazers can’t sell the Bucs, there may be a need to take some of that ManU money and rebuild the Bucs fan base.

Better call Jack Bauer, Joel, and Bryan.

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Bucs-Redskins Preview: Just Win One, Baby

There’s been ugly teams and sometimes those teams face off in the NFL. However, in the long storied history of the NFL there may have never been a meeting of teams coming off such embarrassing defeats as the 0-3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the 1-2 Washington Redskins are last Sunday.

Tampa Bay may have set back offensive football 20 years with their pitiful 86 yards performance against the New York Giants last week. The Bucs didn’t have a first down until the third quarter.

Washington, meanwhile, lost to a team that hadn’t won a game in nearly two years. A 19-game losing streak for the Detroit Lions came to an end at the expense of the Redskins.

While Washington does have a victory, it was a 9-7 decision against the woeful Rams. Really when you beat the Rams by two points and only manage nine points, it shouldn’t really count as a win, should it?

The Bucs can’t be smug either, beaten by two touchdowns or more in all three of their games.

They’ve had trouble running the ball, defending the run, have given up a ton of big plays in the pass…other than that, how was the play, Mrs. Lincoln? (For the kids, this was a humours reference to…ah, never mind, go watch Twilight again).

Raheem Morris may be in danger of losing his young team. Jim Zorn may be in danger of losing his job.

If there was ever two teams that needed a victory in the worst way, it’s this pair.

So who’s going to get it? Let’s take a look at the matchups.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Attack against Washington Redskins Run Defense

Coming into the Giants game, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had the fourth-ranked offense in the NFL. Once it was over, their ranking plummeted like a rock into the deep end of a lake, settling at 26th.

Before the Giants game, starter Byron Leftwich was doing a decent job at quarterback for Tampa Bay. After the game, Leftwich found the bench and second-year player Josh Johnson becomes the starter.

Johnson’s exciting skill set is what makes this ballgame interesting for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Johnson has 4.5 speed and seems to have an uncanny awareness in the pocket.

While he considers himself a pocket passer, Johnson can be almost “Tony Romo-like” in the way he can move around the pocket and extend plays.

At least…that’s what we’ve seen in the limited sample of his work. It’s been said that had Jon Gruden remained head coach of the Buccaneers, Josh Johnson would have been his quarterback.

So why did Johnson toil as the fourth string quarterback on the roster? Johnson was not given many reps during training camp. Even though he was the second string quarterback for the first three games of the season, he split those limited backup reps with the Bucs’ first round draft pick, Josh Freeman.

Despite the limited reps, Johnson looked solid during the exhibition season, making the loser of the battle for starting quarterback between Leftwich and Luke McCown expendable. Johnson was able to duplicate those results in limited action against the Giants last week.

So why the move? Some (including this FC) have said it was a panic move by Morris. However, others like the Pewter Report‘s Scott Reynolds have said it had more to do with a serious weakness that became apparent with Leftwich at quarterback.

It was exposed by the Bills in the second half of that week two matchup. Blitzing up the middle and forcing Leftwich to make a quick throw with touch could force incompletions and overthrows.

The Giants followed the blueprint and sure enough, Leftwich couldn’t hit the guy in the flat or the outlet. Johnson’s mobility neutralizes this weakness and also gives the Buccaneers the ability to help their stagnant running game with rollouts and bootlegs.

Washington will challenge the young quarterback with the league’s 11th-ranked pass defense. Despite good yardage numbers, the Redskins have only managed four sacks and one interception while allowing three touchdowns through the air in three games.

Advantage: Washington

 

Tampa Bay Running Attack vs. Washington Redskins Run Defense

You would think with $100 million dollar man Albert Haynesworth taking up a lot of space in the middle of Washington’s defensive line but unfortunately for Daniel Snyder’s bunch, that hasn’t been the case.

The Skins run defense is a pedestrian 22nd in the NFL, giving up 128 yards a game.

The Buccaneers want to be able to run the football and in Week One, they did effectively, going for 174 yards.

Unfortunately for Tampa Bay, Bucs center Jeff Faine went down in that game. Seemingly, with the loss of Faine went the running game as the Bucs have not been effective with replacement center Sean Mahan.

Advantage: Push

 

Washington Redskins Passing Game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pass Defense

Scoring has been the big problem for the Washington Redskins. Through the air, on the ground, it doesn’t seem to matter for the punchless Skins. Washington actually has scored less points than the Buccaneers even with the Bucs being shutout by the Giants.

Despite not being able to put the lotion in the basket (kids, this is a pop culture reference to…ah nevermind, I think the Jonas Brothers are on), Washington statistically has put up some decent passing numbers under embattled quarterback Jason Campbell.

Of course, we all know the Buccaneers story. Torched in their first two games multiple times, they actually performed better against Eli Manning and the Giants. Then again, the Giants were a bit busy running the ball and controlling the clock.

Advantage: Washington

 

Washington Redskins Running Game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneeers Run Defense

With Clinton Portis battling injuries, the Redskins running game has had some issues getting on track, ranked just 24th in the NFL.

As bad as the Buccaneers pass defense has been, their run defense may be even worse. Shredded for over 200 yards in each of their past two games, the Buccaneers defense may be the movable object to the Redskins resistable force.

Advantage: Push

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Special Teams vs Washington Redskins Special Teams

Both teams have solid coverage units with Tampa Bay slightly better in the return game. Mike Nugent still has yet to make a field goal for the Buccaneers while Dirk Johnson has been solid punting for the Bucs.

Shaun Suisham has been perfect this season for Washington but has yet to attempt a field goal over 30 yards. Veteran Hunter Smith has been decent for the Redskins this season.

Advantage: Push

 

Intangibles

Jim Zorn may be coaching for his job this week. After giving the Giants a good game, the Redskins have been in a funk, nipping the woeful Rams then getting shocked by the Detroit Lions, who snapped a 19 game losing streak.

A loss to the winless Bucs may be the final nail in Zorn’s coffin. It will be interesting to see how much this team cares for Zorn. If they believe in him, then they will put forth their best effort against Tampa Bay. If they see the writing on the wall and are awaiting the inevitable, then they may not bring passion to the football field.

The Redskins are at home, which is always a challenge for a visitor at Fed Ex field, but if Tampa Bay can get up early, this angry crowd could turn on the home team.

Like the Skins, the Bucs are also looking to redeem themselves after a horrible performance.

Young fireplug QB Josh Johnson makes his first career NFL start.

Advantage: Washington

 

Coaching

Jim Zorn is in his second season as head coach of the Washington Redskins. Zorn is 9-10.

Raheem Morris is in his first season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is still seeking his first victory as an NFL Head Coach at 0-3.

Advantage: Push

 

Prediction: If I take out my magic eight ball and say, “Magic Eight Ball, will the Buccaneers finally win their first game this season?” Magic Eight ball tells me, “Uncertain”. With Eight Ball’s failure, I switch to my gut, which is still dealing with my taco from Tijuana Flats, but I digress.

The brain says Washington should win this game. They aren’t as bad as they’ve looked all season and it seems all teams get well against the Buccaneers.

But with Zorn’s team coming apart at the seams, they’ll either completely fall apart or rally together. With so much pressure on top of the Skins, I just have this gut feeling that this could very well be Raheem Morris’ first win.

The key, as always, is the turnover battle and the running game. The team that wins these two statistics will likely win the game.

Sure enough, if the Bucs do not win this game, they may not get one until November – if ever this season.

I can promise that this could very well be the last time I predict a Buccaneers victory this season.

Final Score: Tampa Bay 13, Washington 10.

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Morris Failing To Follow Dungy’s Example

Recently, Tampa Bay head coach Raheem Morris has reminisced a lot on the 1996 Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad.

That was Tony Dungy’s first year as the head coach of the Buccaneers and things started terribly for the future Hall of Famer. Dungy came into a hornet’s nest.

The Buccaneers were purchased by the Glazer family the year before and were mired in one of the most notorious losing streaks in football history. Thirteen consecutive losing seasons, twelve of which had double digit losses.

Pressure came from both the community and the ownership group.

The Community Investment tax was a major hot button issue in Tampa Bay and it also held the future of the Buccaneers in the city. Included along with schools, roads and other infrastructure was funding for a new stadium for the Buccaneers.

With the cities of Baltimore and Los Angeles eager to return to the NFL, the new ownership group had many suitors for locations for their franchise.

With support lackluster for the one percent tax increase, many believed it would take a good performance by Dungy’s Bucs in their season home opener to win over the undecided.

But in the opener, the Bucs lived up to expectations and lost to the Green Bay Packers 34-3.

Amazingly, the tax passed anyway and the stadium would be built, but Dungy’s Bucs went on to lose their first five games that season. In addition to the Green Bay debacle, the Bucs were beaten soundly by the Lions 21-6, and had a pair of close losses to Denver and Seattle before being shut out by the Lions (again) 27-0.

The one thing Tony Dungy held to steadfastly was belief in his system; his way of doing things.

Dungy practiced the team the same way; the coaches called plays the same way; executed their system the same way; and held their players in accountable in same manner. Eventually, the players bought in finishing the season winning five of their last seven games.

It would set the stage for six straight years of playoff contention and eventually a Super Bowl victory for the 2002 team led by Jon Gruden.

It’s been said that insanity is defined as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.

Well, Dungy may have had a little insanity to stick to his guns. It was his belief in what he was doing that led to one of the most remarkable turnarounds in league history. Certainly, he might have tweaked the system here and there, but the core beliefs stood strong.

If only Raheem Morris could learn from the man and the team he says he’s emulating.

Morris has been erratic since taking over the reigns from Jon Gruden. He dumped many of the veterans on the team, fired much of the coaching staff, hiring, then firing his offensive coordinator, seeing one player get suspended by the league and another arrested.

He took an extended period of time deciding his quarterback, then shipped off the loser, called one of his young players “a career backup,” only to elevate that player to starting QB after one crummy outing by the winner of the starting QB competition.

Meanwhile, a once proud defense that hasn’t ranked worse than 17th since 1995 and has been in the top ten in defense 11 of the last 12 seasons, is currently ranked 31st.

With his team looking desperately for leadership, Morris has shown indecision and confusion. With them looking to believe in what he’s doing, Morris announced he’s changing starting players and practice habits.

It all smacks of panic from a young coach that is perhaps in over his head and doesn’t know how to get his team to respond.

Morris needs to look himself in the mirror and ask himself, “Do you believe in what you’re doing?” If you don’t, your team won’t. If you do, then making all these seemingly panic inspired moves and changes aren’t the way to prove that to your team.

The Buccaneers are trying to establish their identity, as they did 13 years ago. Dungy established “Buc Ball” – doing things the right way, the consistent way. Playing solid defense, running the football, and protecting the ball.

Dungy took rinse and repeat to another level. He pounded his way of doing things through training camp, throughout the ’96 season. As the losses mounted early on, Dungy gave an answer that frustrated reporters and confounded fans, “We just need to execute better.”

Eventually, the players got it.

When the mighty San Francisco 49ers rolled into town for the 1997 season opener, they didn’t know what hit them.

Bucs fans accepted that this may be a rebuilding year. They accepted that unlike Dungy, Raheem Morris wasn’t left with a Warren Sapp, John Lynch, and Derrick Brooks to build a defense around.

It also helped that Dungy toiled as a coordinator for years, biding his time for an opportunity to be a head coach in the NFL. Morris’ quick elevation did not afford him that type of experience.

Most understood that to take a few steps forward, you sometimes need to take a step back.

The 1995 Buccaneers was the first Tampa Bay team in 12 years to not lose 10 or more games. The ’96 Bucs finished 6-10. It was a step back, but it was to go forward.

That 1996 team got better and better as the weeks went on. This 2009 team of Raheem Morris is getting worse.

One non-credible message board rumor even said that in a fit of desperation, the Glazer family has called Tony Dungy to see if he was available in some capacity to help Morris and the team.

While that’s highly improbable (and possibly tampering), it wouldn’t be surprising if it were true.

After all, Dungy has been through this before while Morris looks like a babe in the woods with the wolves closing in.

To Coach Morris I say this: The time is now Raheem; your team needs you to believe in what your doing. Show them your resolve and the dedication before you lose them forever.

Stand by your decisions and your beliefs.

If you don’t, who will?

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Ahmad and Giants Run Over Offensively Challenged Bucs 24-0

Earlier in the week, Coach Raheem Morris of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers said earlier in the week that the New York Giants were who they want to become. When Raheem’s master plan is finally executed, the team will look a lot like the Giants’ physical style of football.

New York showed Tampa Bay how far away they are by dominating both lines of scrimmage in a 24-0 whitewash of the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium.

The Buccaneers offense couldn’t stay on the field and their defense couldn’t get off. That’s not a recipe for a good day against one of the best teams in the NFL.

While the defense had its issues, surrendering 226 yards on the ground to the duo of Ahmad Bradshaw and bruiser Brandon Jacobs, they did make some strides in the secondary, allowing only one big pass to Eli Manning and the Giants.

Manning had a rather pedestrian 161 yards, but did throw two touchdowns. New York was simply content to out physical the Buccaneers and it worked.

The biggest Achilles’ heel for the Bucs defense in this one was their failures on third down. The G-men were 10 of 16 on the money down, with several conversions in longer than five yard situations.

However, this game rests on the Buccaneers offense which was horrible.

When you play four quarters and only amass 88 yards, five first downs, and are 0-for-9 on third down, that production is as ugly as the Seattle Seahawks neon green alternate jerseys. We could plant the old John McKay line about offensive execution here, but even that can’t describe how bad it was.

Folks, the Bucs didn’t get their first first down until the fourth quarter. The cannons hadn’t gone off since pre-game, and the ship only got one off late in the game, when backup quarterback Josh Johnson engineered a drive into the red zone against the Giants prevent defense.

It’s become quite obvious that without Jeff Faine at center, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cannot run the football. It will likely be another couple weeks before Faine can return, so don’t expect much from the Tampa Bay running game for a while.

Without a running game, it falls on Byron Leftwich to move the chains. He failed miserably on Sunday going 7 of 16 for 22 yds and an interception.

Could Josh Freeman possibly do worse? Could Josh Johnson? Johnson finished with 36 passing yards and had a run for 15 yards in one series. That’s more than the Leftwich led offense for three and half quarters.

Of course, fans will be calling for Johnson to start, but if the Bucs are going young, it’s not going to be with the young QB from San Diego.

Johnson was blitzed the first couple passes he faced and handled it well, finding his hot reads. You’d think he was the seasoned vet and Leftwich was the guy who never played in a regular season game in the NFL.

It’ll be interesting to see what coach Raheem Morris decides.

Meanwhile, the Bucs head to the nation’s capital to face an embarrassed Washington Redskins team that just lost to the Detroit Lions, snapping Detroit’s 19 game losing streak.

The Redskins are bound to be mad and if you have Clinton Portis on your fantasy team you may be very excited right now.

Don’t look now Buccaneers fans, but the Buccaneers now have the second longest losing streak in the NFL at seven games (the Rams lead the league with 13 straight defeats).

Are the Redskins the NFL’s version of the slump buster or will Raheem and the Bucs have to wait even longer to taste victory?

Should be an interesting week.

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Buccaneers-Giants: Hide The Women and Children, Folks

As the eternal optimist among the Featured Columnists of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it’s been said that I own a pair of Pewter-Colored glasses.

Sure enough, when you look at my first two previews and ultimate prediction, I’ve given the Buccaneers the benefit of the doubt. I truly believed the Bucs could beat the Cowboys and the Bills.

This time though, the glasses are off and folks, what my non-cloudy eyes perceive isn’t pretty.

From the amount of Giants fans likely to invade Raymond James Stadium to an offense that can attack the Buccaneers at both of their weakest points (deep ball and power-run game), to a defense that feeds on statuesque quarterbacks—this has the makings of a mauling.

So naturally, the Bucs will win.

Just kidding, not even I, the President of the Believe in the Dream of Raheem fan club can go there.

No, for Buccaneer fans, this one will have the appeal of a nasty car accident. You don’t want to look, you feel for those involved, but you just can’t seem to look away.

Even if the Giants come in flat after ruining Dallas’ unveiling of Jerryopolis on Monday night, few of the matchups—in fact only one—favor the Bucs.

With that said, in the immortal words of Chris Berman, “That’s why they play the games.” Upsets happen all the time in the NFL, some you just can’t imagine or explain. A team comes in heavily favored but coughs up the ball three or four times. The underdog hangs around long enough to believe there’s a chance and then something happens to burn the favorite.

The Buccaneers better hope this is one of those weeks.

When Last We Met: The Giants began their amazing run to their 2007 Super Bowl Championship by beating the Bucs in Tampa in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs, 24-14

Series: The Giants have won six of the last nine meetings and lead the overall series 11-6.

 

New York Giants Passing Attack vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pass Defense

One of the interesting things about the New York Giants this season is they’ve won with Eli Manning’s arm, not their vaunted rushing attack. The Giants are fifth in the NFL passing the ball. That doesn’t look good for the Bucs 27th ranked pass defense.

The Bucs got a little better against the pass against the Bills, playing more of their familiar Tampa Two than they did in Week One. However, when Buffalo began to run the ball effectively, the Bucs had to creep up their safeties and the Bills began to attack that struggling secondary.

Tampa Bay’s lack of a pass rush continues to hinder their ability to defend the pass. The Giants come in with one of the better offensive lines in the NFL.

Manning was sensational in the Giants’ 33-31 thriller against Dallas, throwing for 330 yards and two touchdowns.

Advantage: New York

 

New York Giants Rushing Attack vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Run Defense

It’s amazing the Giants are 2-0 with Brandon Jacobs struggling to run the football.

The battering ram Jacobs is averaging only 3.3 yards a carry and has not reached the end zone in 2009. The Giants as a whole are a very pedestrian 22nd in the NFL pounding the rock with no rushing touchdowns.

The G-men’s running game will get a chance to get well this week, facing Tampa Bay’s 27th ranked run defense.

The Bucs missed 24 tackles and allowed unheralded running back Fred Jackson to pound out 163 yards on the ground. They are giving up an average of 5.7 yards a carry.

While the Giants may miss Derrick Ward, it’s hard to imagine Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw not being effective against Tampa Bay’s defense.

Advantage: New York

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Attack vs. New York Giants Pass Defense

Yet another surprising statistic regarding the New York Giants is their lack of sacks through the first two games. They have three—the same amount as the pass rushed starved Bucs.

Meanwhile, despite losing starting center Jeff Faine to a triceps injury in the season opener, the Bucs have only allowed Byron Leftwich to be sacked twice this season.

While sacks haven’t been abundant, hits on Leftwich certainly have. Part of that is due to his style of holding on to the football until the last available second. Sometimes that gets him in trouble—as it did against the Bills last week when he held the ball too long, overthrew running back Cadillac Williams in the flat, and it was intercepted for a touchdown the other way.

The Bills also blitzed the statuesque Leftwich unmercifully. While the Giants like to apply pressure with their front four, it wouldn’t surprise me to see defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan add a few wrinkles for the fifth-ranked pass defense in the NFL.

The Bucs are ranked sixth in the NFL in the passing game, despite missing the services of their top wideout Antonio Bryant (knee).

If the line can give Leftwich time and he avoids the turnover, the Bucs may be able to sustain some drives.

Advantage: New York

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Attack vs. New York Giants Run Defense

Typically stout against the run, the Giants have been just as bad as the Buccaneers in defending the ground game this season. They’re tied with Tampa Bay for 27th against the run.

That bodes well for the Buccaneers 14th-ranked running attack, which had to be shelved last week when the Buccaneers quickly fell behind 17 points.

This can be an advantage for the Buccaneers if the offense can avoid turnovers and the defense can keep them within a touchdown.

Cadillac Williams and former Giant Derrick Ward are really the strengths of the Buccaneer running game. Earnest Graham has yet to really have an opportunity but has shown in the past he can be capable.

Jeff Faine’s absence is probably felt the most here as his replacement, Sean Mahan, isn’t as strong at the point of attack.

Advantage: Tampa Bay

 

New York Giants Special Teams vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Special Teams

Lawrence Tynes is a solid kicker while the ageless Jeff Feagles continues to punt well for the Giants. Sinorice Moss has shown some flash ability as a kick returner.

Tampa Bay’s Mike Nugent has yet to make a field goal in 2009 but Dirk Johnson has been a pleasant surprise, averaging 42.1 yards a punt and pinning five inside the 20.

Clifton Smith is averaging 26.5 yards a return but has yet to make a major impact in the return game this season.

Both coverage units are solid.

Advantage: Push

 

New York Giants coaching vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers coaching

Giants coach Tom Coughlin is in his 14th season as a head coach. Coughlin is 210-117 (89-49 as coach in New York), has six division championships, and a Super Bowl victory on his resume.

Raheem Morris is coaching his third game as an NFL head coach. He is 0-2.

Advantage: New York

 

Intangibles

The heat and humidity in Tampa Bay may become a factor if the game is close in the fourth quarter. The temperature is expected to be in the high 80s during game time.

The Giants are also coming off an emotional Monday night battle with rival Dallas and are in the midst of a three game road trip—a rarity in the NFL.

The Bucs continue to struggle with inexperience and confusion on defense. Several players have spoken out this week about playing soft.

Advantage: Push

 

Prediction: For the past few weeks this is where I wax poetically about how the Bucs are going to do the things necessary to win this game. Are there avenues that could lead to victory for the Bucs in this game? Definitely. If they can control the Giants early and get a lead, be able to sustain their running game then there’s a definite chance. Turnovers would be helpful, too.

However, seeing this team struggle to figure itself out and considering the Giants may be the best team in the NFC, it’s hard to imagine the Bucs being able to stay in this one for long.

It may be a little closer than most pundits expect, but in the end the Giants will walk away with a convincing victory.

Score: NY Giants 23, Tampa Bay 10

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Tampa Bay-Buffalo: Bills Blast Bumbling Bucs, 33-20

It may be quite a while before Tampa Bay Head Coach Raheem Morris experiences the thrill of his first NFL coaching victory.

Tampa Bay saw their best opportunity of the first quarter of the season slip past their fingers as the Buccaneers had turnovers, penalties, and some defensive lapses in a uglier then the score indicates 33-20 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo, coming off a tough loss against their rival New England Patriots, came out fired up and blasted Tampa Bay in the first quarter.

Trent Edwards connected on a 32 yard touchdown to Lee Evans to open up the scoring for Buffalo. Like against Dallas, the Bucs secondary allowed Evans to slip behind them and it was a pinpoint toss by Edwards for the touchdown.

On the ensuing offensive possession, Buffalo Safety Donte Wintner intercepted Bucs QB Byron Leftwich and took it 76 yards for a touchdown and suddenly the Bucs were down by two scores.

On the next drive, Leftwich and the Bucs would be victimized again but this time with a controversial call. It appeared that Buffalo Safety Byron Scott trapped an interception by Leftwich. Morris challenged but inexplicably, despite clear evidence that the ball had touched the turf, the call was upheld.

The pick would lead to a 31 yard Ryan Lindell field goal and before the first fifteen minutes of the ballgame had expired the Bucs were down by 17 points.

Give credit to Tampa Bay as they didn’t quit after the forgettable first, the Bucs marched down the field and capped a five play 77 yard drive with a beautiful strike by Leftwich to Kellen Winslow. The score went for 42 yards and cut the Buffalo advantage to ten.

The Bills would come right back, using the battering ram Fred Jackson to pound the rock deep into Tampa Bay territory before settling for another Lindell field goal.

After the Bucs were stuffed, the Bills marched back down the field again and were in point blank range to put the Bucs away early.

Instead, Buffalo running back Fred Jackson lost the handle on the football and the ball bounced into the hands of much maligned Bucs Safety Sabby Piscitelli. Piscitelli would be off to the races and only a touchdown saving tackle by speedster Rosco Parrish prevented a scoop and score.

Leftwich would cash in a play later, connecting with Cadillac Williams for a eight yard touchdown pass. The Bucs found themselves back in the ball game down by six at the half.

The Bills defense turned to blitzing the Buccaneers unmercifully in the second half and it befuddled the Buccaneers offense. Tampa Bay’s offense would suffer three and outs on three drives and lost on downs on a fourth drive.

Buffalo’s offensive would be stymied until late in the third quarter, when they completed a 13 play, 64 yard drive with another Lindell field goal. As the fourth quarter began, Buffalo led 23-14.

After another stalled drive, the Bills blew the game open as Terrell Owens, who had been quiet the entire ballgame finally made a play for the Bills. T.O. went step for step with Bucs cornerback Aquib Talib who had no safety help. Talib let up one step trying to make a play on the football and the perfectly thrown ball by Edwards fell into the hands of Owens for a 41 yard score. Owens, who was booed after he dropped a potential big catch in the first half motioned to the crowd.

Tampa Bay inched a little closer with 5:32 remaining in the ball game when Leftwich on fourth and goal connected on a circus catch by tight end Jerramy Stevens for a 6 yard touchdown score. The Bucs went for two points but failed and the Bucs were down 30-20.

Lindell would add a field goal late to provide the final margin.

For the Buccaneers defensively, they cut down on the deep balls, limiting the Bills to only two big plays through the air – unfortunately both went for touchdowns. Where the Bucs were really gashed was on the ground, where Fred Jackson’s 163 yards powered a rushing attack that wrung up 218 yards on the ground.

For the second straight week, the Buccaneers allowed over 400 yards of offense.

Unlike last week, the Bucs offense couldn’t move the ball with the efficiency we saw against Dallas. Tampa Bay managed 353 yards of offense but only 57 of that was on the ground.

Sabby Piscitelli redeemed himself with that big fumble recovery and an interception of Edwards. On the other hand, Gaines Adams continued his disappearing act. He was a non factor in the pass rush and was in on only a few tackles.

Kellen Winslow had a good game for Tampa Bay, nabbing 7 passes for 90 yards and a score. Maurice Stovall, playing for the injured Antonio Bryant also played well, hauling in 80 yds on three catches.

Leftwich would finish 26 of 50 for 296 yds, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.

The Bucs were also penalized 13 times for 112 yds including four personal fouls for facemask penalties.

As Tampa Bay tumbled to 0-2, any positive vibes that could be taken from the Dallas loss were gone in this poorly played ballgame by the Buccaneers.

Buffalo outplayed the Bucs in every facet of the game and won this one convincingly.

Former Patriots/Jets/Giants head coach Bill Parcells once said, “You are what your record is.”

The Bucs look every bit an 0-2 team, and its seems as if it may be awhile before they get that zero out of the win column.

After a tough home game against one of the best teams in the NFC in the New York Giants, they head on the road to Philadelphia and Washington – places where the Bucs typically struggle and they’ll be facing two teams that will be desperate for victories after losses today.

The optimism of a new season quickly slips away when it becomes painfully obvious this team is far from contention.

Buckle up, Buc fans. It’s going to be a long season.

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Bucs At Bills: Two Teams Try To Recover From Week One Disappointment

The Bucs were victimized at home while the Bills were heartbroken on the road. As both Tampa Bay and Buffalo set their sights on major opening upsets, both teams fell short and find themselves staring at an 0-2 start.

For the Bills, it’s a bit tougher. Not only do they have to recover from their heart wrenching loss to their hated rival, the New England Patriots, they have to do it in a short week.

Tampa Bay battled the Cowboys tooth and nail, putting up big numbers on offense, but special teams and mental breakdowns in the team’s secondary led to their demise.

When the Bucs head to Buffalo for the first time in franchise history, they bring with them the knowledge that both squads are better than previously believed. But each have flaws they need to solve if they’re going to be competitive this season.

Let’s take a look at the Buccaneers and Bills showdown.

 

Records

Buffalo 0-1, Tampa Bay 0-1

 

Location

Ralph Wilson Stadium, Orchard Park, NY

 

Buccaneers Passing Attack vs. Buffalo Bills Pass Defense

The Bills pass defense contained Brady and Moss for 55 minutes of their Monday night matchup. By the end of it though, they had surrendered 366 yards and two gut wrenching touchdowns.

The yardage was more than the much maligned Buccaneers defense surrendered against Dallas in week one.

If Tampa Bay proved anything on Sunday, it’s that they could move the ball through the air or on the ground. Byron Leftwich stood in the pocket delivering strikes to a rejuvenated Michael Clayton, Kellen Winslow, and a whole cast of characters.

The Bills applied pressure to Tom Brady all night, giving him little time to get settled in the pocket and forcing the veteran into mistakes.

You have to wonder though if the issue was due more to Brady being tentative in his first game back from a major injury rather than the Bills playing above expectations.

Tampa Bay’s offensive line handled the vaunted Dallas Cowboys pass rush (which led the league in sacks in 2008), not allowing one quarterback take down.

They will likely be without their Pro Bowl caliber center, Jeff Faine, for this one. So his replacement Sean Mahan will need to step up and prevent penetration from the middle of the line by Marcus Stroud and company.

With Buffalo running a lot of cover two shell, Kellen Winslow may get a good opportunity to exploit the middle of that Bills defense, especially with veteran Paul Posluzny out with a broken forearm.

Advantage: Tampa Bay

 

Buccaneers Running Game vs. Bills Run Defense

The Buffalo Bills contained the Patriots running game, limiting New England to 3.2 yards a carry. The Patriots however, only ran the ball 23 times despite having 77 plays with the football.

As New England continued to get Tom Brady into rhythm, the running game became an afterthought.

Tampa Bay will test that Bills run defense. Tampa Bay rung up 173 yards rushing against one of the best defenses in the NFL.

If Tampa Bay can sustain drives with their running game, the Buffalo defense will be in deep trouble due to their offense’s fast break approach. Buffalo’s going to be on the field for a lot of plays against Tampa Bay’s three headed monster at running back.

Advantage: Tampa Bay

 

Bills Passing Attack vs. Buccaneers Pass Defense

We’ve all seen the replays—Cowboys wide receivers streaking down the field and dancing untouched into the end zone. It’s tough for the Buccaneers defense because with the exception of those four breakdowns in coverage, they pretty much held the Cowboys in check most of the game.

Ah, but that’s like saying despite losing 18 straight games the Lions are a darn good football team. You can’t dismiss the plays. They happened, and they will continue to happen until the Buccaneers prove they can stop it.

Trent Edwards had a good game for Buffalo against the Patriots, tossing for 212 yards and two touchdowns. Despite having time to throw, it seemed Edwards was content in checking down to his running backs. RB Fred Jackson led the Bills in receptions and yardage.

High priced free agent acquisition Terrell Owens only caught two passes, while speedster Lee Evans only caught three.

Can Edwards take advantage of Owens and Evans downfield against the Buccaneers secondary the same way Tony Romo did? He’ll need to.

Buffalo’s fast break offense affords him limited opportunities to throw the football. The Bills have to take advantage of any mismatches in the secondary.

Advantage: Buffalo

 

Bills Running game vs. Buccaneers Run Defense

Once again, the Bills fast break offense limited their opportunities in the running game. Without suspended back Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson carried the load for the Buffalo attack.

Jackson was decent, rushing for 57 yards on 15 carries for a 3.8 yard average.

While the Bucs run defense held Cowboys running back Marion Barber to 75 yards rushing, there was still a sense they gave up too much on the ground. The Cowboys finished with 118 yards on the ground, averaging 4.9 yards a carry.

The Bucs have to get tighter at the point of attack if they hope to win this ballgame.

Advantage: Push

 

Bills Special Teams vs. Buccaneers Special Teams

The Buccaneers special teams had a day they’d soon like to forget, fumbling once and having some break downs in coverage, a field goal blocked and another going wide right. This is not the Buccaneers special teams we’re used to seeing.

It will be interesting to see if this was a week one aberration or a sign of things to come.

Buffalo had their own fumble issues against New England on Monday night but kicker Ryan Lindell is as solid as they come.

Advantage: Buffalo

 

Buccaneers Coaching vs. Bills Coaching

Both teams fired their offensive coordinators a week before the season started.

Raheem Morris (0-1) lost in his debut as head coach of the Buccaneers, but his team fought hard and played the physical style he was looking for. Mental breakdowns cost them against Dallas.

Dick Jauron (57-77) is in a fight for his coaching life. After three consecutive 7-9 seasons, Jauron needs to get the Bills into the playoffs. Buffalo came out fired up to play on Monday night football and had the heavily favored Patriots on the ropes, only to let Brady and company escape.

Advantage: Push

 

Intangibles

This will be the first road test for the young Buccaneers under head coach Raheem Morris.

This is Buffalo’s home opener and it’s also the Bills’ opportunity to celebrate their 50-year all-time team.

(By the way, how O.J. Simpson cannot be on this list is beyond me. He may be a murderer, but he was one of the greatest players in Bills history. He’s a hall of famer for crying out loud and the first guy to break the 2,000 yard rushing barrier. How can you not have the Juice on your all-time team?)

The Bills will have a short week to prepare for Tampa Bay and they’ll need to recover from one of the most disappointing losses in recent franchise history.

Blowing a 13-point lead with just a little over two minutes left in the game is just gut wrenching and reminiscent of some other Buffalo collapses on Monday night football, such as last season’s Monday Night loss to Cleveland.

It sent the Bills into a tailspin. They lost four out of their last six games and missed the playoffs after a 5-1 start.

Advantage: Push

 

Prediction

On the surface, it’s tough to go against a team that nearly defeated the New England Patriots on their home turf with all the nation watching. The Bills looked fast and strong, giving the Patriots fits on both sides of the football. It took a miracle fumble to allow the Pats to escape from the brink.

Dig a little deeper though and you see a football team that was out gained 441 yards to 276. You see an offense that managed only 17 points and was on the field 15 minutes less than their counterpart. And you see a team that blew a 13 point lead.

Meanwhile, in Tampa Bay you see a club that can not only throw the ball but also run it and when not blowing coverages can play pretty decent defense.

The biggest questions in this game are can the Bucs sustain a running game and/or can Trent Edwards get the ball downfield to Owens and Evans?

Which team answers the question successfully will likely be your winner on Sunday.

Pick: Buccaneers 24, Bills 17

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