NFL Two-A-Days: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2010 Season Preview

This idea originated from ESPN's Mike & Mike. I realize this is not an original article, but at least I'm not taking credit for the idea. It is important I let you know I am a Falcons fan. I write this on the Bucs because it is a series of every NFL team.

1.) Will Josh Freeman cut down his turnovers (20 in 10 games) in 2010?

Out of Kansas State, Josh Freeman showed star potential in his rookie year. Parts of his game still need work, including a more complex offense. Freeman showed his clutch ability, which some quarterbacks don't have. If Freeman's progress continues at the pace it has been, he'll be a pro bowl quarterback in the next few years.

2.) Does veteran Cadillac Williams still have enough left in the tank?

History would say at 28, he has two more years left. The only time he has rushed for 1,000 yards is his rookie year in 2005 (See I am doing some research!). In 2007 and 2008 he was plauged by injury. Last year was his best year since his rookie season, which would suggest he is returning to his younger form. Cadillac looks to be on the brink of rushing for 1,000 yards for the second time in his NFL career. 

3.) Can rookie wide receivers Arrelious Benn and Mike Williams make an immediate impact?

Arrelious Benn has the ideal size for an NFL WR, but needs to improve his catching ability. Mike Williams has had questionable character, especially when he quit the Syracuse football team. These two can create a good duo and legit weapons for Josh Freeman. I like the upside this group shows, but with so many young players, it will take some time.

4.) Can Raheem Morris revive the Bucs' once-formidable defense?

The defensive line is full of young players to help revive this dying defense. Brian Price and Gerald McCoy were both high drafts picks ( McCoy 1st round, Price 2nd round.)  McCoy is expected to be a reincarnation of Warren Sapp. Brian Price can also dominate in the middle, if given time. Kyle Moore should start opposite Stylez G. White to give the Bucs a pretty solid defensive line. The Bucs need more rotational players, but the starters are set.

The linebacking core starts with Barrett Ruud. Ruud has some of the best stats of any middle linebacker in the league. Geno Hayes and Quincy Black are very inconsistent  and may need to be replaced long term.

The secondary is very solid. Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber start at the corner spots. Sean Jones should help the secondary and even improve the play of Tanard Jackson.

This defense is young, but building well.

5.) Record?

5-11, last place in the NFC South.

Bonus thoughts

The offensive line was disapointing in 2009, and will move from the zone-blocking scheme to man-to-man scheme. All offensive lineman are very big and athletic, which should help with the change of schemes. Kellen Winslow proved to be the elite tight end that the Bucs traded for.