NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Surprise with Young Team

National Football League pundits viewed the 2010 performance of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as likely to match the 2009 dismal results of three wins and 13 losses. As trained journalists, they surely know how to spell, but if observant they may have learned a new way to spell surprise: B-u-c-c-a-n-e-e-r-s. 

On Buccaneers.com, Raheem Morris, the youngest head coach in the league, commented about his young team, the youngest in the NFL at the approximate 25.5 years on earth per player.

"These guys are young and they're just crazy enough not to listen to everybody else and just go out and be their best selves and get wins," Morris said. "And that's what's happening. They believe in themselves. They've got a lot of self-esteem and a lot of pride."

The rushing offense has improved dramatically with the athletic power runs of young LeGarrette Blount whose leaping abilities at 23 will no doubt be textbook video replay throughout the season. He performed elusive leaping in college also, so it may not be his last high dash. 

Also young at 24 is CB Aqib Talib who was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week last week for his two interceptions against the Cardinals. He returned one for a touchdown.

The comeback ability of Josh Freeman has been in part accomplished by rookies plus two and three-year players. 

Rookie wide receiver Mike Williams, left guard Ted Larsen, wide receiver Arrelious Benn and free safety Cody Grimm have contributed with game-changing plays. 

Veterans have showed up too but with so many young players on the team, it’s obvious coaches have to use their ability whether it’s time tested or not. Management has also done a good job of bringing in quality players through the practice squad.

"I stopped counting," Morris said. "We've got a bunch of rookies out there, rookies and second-year players. We just keep piling them in there, putting them in there, letting them learn our system, being a part of our practice, being a part of our ever-changing schedule."

Still, Bucs fans shouldn't be giddy over being 5-2 and having three strong comeback wins. It’s time to exhale, take a deep breath and save energy for the next game.

It’s still one game at a time. Stats don’t cause snaps, fumbles, receptions, yards gained, interceptions or points. No matter what their age, active team members manipulate all the stats by showing up, staying up and playing strong.

One of the best things a fan can hear is the first whistle of the next game. Thinking beyond that can get as muddled as a blowout game.

But as for the pundits learning new ways to spell, they might want to take a look at the word success. It seems the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have found many ways to spell that, but one that surfaces quickly: F-r-e-e-m-a-n.

Photo credit: Dwight Drum @ Racetake.com