Bleacher Report - Articles by Oliver Ellis

Buccaneers Returning To the Tampa-2?: Players React

Oliver Ellis — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:39:29 -0500

The Buccaneers' defense is apparently moving back to wards its older scheme, the one that made them famous—the Tampa 2.

A version of the Cover 2 defense dreamt up by former Buc head coach Tony Dungy and longtime former defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, the zone-based scheme leaves defensive linemen responsible for plugging one gap, linebackers allowed to run sideline to sideline and safeties split the deep halves of the field in half in an attempt to limit the chances and prevent big plays.

Nicknamed the Tampa 2, the Cover 2 scheme requires for players to rely more on speed and athleticism than size and bulk. It is the system many current Bucs defenders, from tackle Chris Hovan to linebacker Geno Hayes, were brought here to play.

Demoted coordinator Jim Bates, 63, installed what was supposed to be a blitz-heavy, man-coverage scheme that often asked for the linemen and linebackers to read and anticipate plays instead of simply crashing through the line to make a stop.

"There's a reason why they call it Tampa 2," Chris Hovan said. "Am I more comfortable? Yes. I'm not a two-gapper. I'm never going to be a two-gapper. I can gap and a half. My abilities are to run, penetrate, and create at the line of scrimmage. With that being said, some of the guys are comfortable. But at the same time, we've got to go out there and just run the defense that is called.''

"Even when Monte Kiffin was here, you saw us dabble with quarters (coverage), with man (coverage) and with two-match (coverage),'' Raheem Morris said. "That's where we wanted to go. I thought we could be that super mega-morph (defense) and that we could get this thing going this year, and I still think we can.

"That's why I put myself in charge of it. There won't be much of a change. There will just be a little more of a Raheem Morris influence. That's what I'm planning to do."

"It's funny. You were hired to be defensive coordinator two weeks before you were hired to be the head coach and you have some ideas and you've got your plans out there,'' Morris said Tuesday.

"Why throw (linebackers coach) Joe Barry out there and let him try to fix it the next six weeks when you think you can? I feel like it's my responsibility, I feel like I have to do it, I feel like it's what I'm supposed to do as a head coach and a man on this football team.

"It's what I owe this organization, it's what I owe this town, what I owe this ownership, what I owe (general manager) Mark Dominik, everybody that's involved with me. It's my job to fix it and that's what I've got to go out there and do.''

"Obviously, we're 1-9 and we've been struggling," middle linebacker Barrett Ruud said. "Hopefully a change will provide some good things. Is it the right move? It remains to be seen. We're going to go in and play and hopefully it turns out to be the right move because we need to get some wins, 1-9 is definitely not good enough.

"One and nine is a wild ride. When you lose, you learn about character. You learn about the guys that are going to play through a lot of adversity. That's one thing our team has never lacked is effort. We haven't executed very good, but the effort has always been there."

"The building is not falling down,'' veteran cornerback Ronde Barber said. ""We're good. This team will stick together as it has all year when we've went through these tough patches. Don't worry about it. We'll find a way.'

Jim Bates Out, Raheem Morris In: What Impact the DC Change Could Have in Tampa

Oliver Ellis — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:31:00 -0500

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive coordinator Jim Bates has been relieved of his play-calling duties as of today.

Bates, who was hired in the offseason, has overseen a defense that has struggled badly this season and as a result is surrendering 29 points and 378 yards per game. It currently ranks 27th overall in the NFL and last (32nd) against the run, allowing 168 yards per game. The team has one win and nine losses to date.

Bates, 63, will stay on with the team at least through the end of the season in a consulting role, breaking down film and assisting Morris on game day from the coaching box.

Bates' previous stint with the Miami Dolphins was successful as he had a top 10—ranked defense in each of his four seasons with the Dolphins. Conversely, Bates' one—year term with the Denver Broncos is a parallel to his time in Tampa Bay. In Denver, Bates was stripped of his play-calling duties and demoted after his defense struggled out of the gate. At the end of the 2007 season, Bates resigned.

Buccaneers’ head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Mark Dominik met until late Monday to discuss the organizational shift, one day after the Bucs were routed by the unbeaten New Orleans Saints 38—7 which was one of the worst home defeats in club history.

All defensive play-calling responsibilities have been taken over by first year head coach Raheem Morris. Morris is expected to immediately return the Bucs’ to their former Tampa Two scheme, which will allow their undersized defensive linemen to benefit from their speed rather than reprimand them for a lack of physical size and bulk. The change in gap disciplines and corner coverages (from bump—and—run to cushioned zones) should help the Bucs’ personnel immensely.

Bucs’ head coach Raheem Morris, 33, is the league's youngest head coach. Prior to succeeding Jon Gruden last January, Morris was named successor to long—time defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, only a month before the Glazer family fired Gruden.

Morris has never officially handled defensive play calling duties in an NFL game before, but did serve as defensive coordinator throughout the 2006 season before accepting an offer to re-join as a defensive backs coach in 2007.

Morris has been more actively involved in the defense in recent weeks. Bates ran a 4—3, two—gap scheme that required the cornerbacks to play less zone and more man—to—man coverage, but the Bucs have been playing more traditional Cover Two as the season has progressed, attempting to eliminate several big plays offenses have scored against them.

Back with a Bang: Tanard Jackson

Oliver Ellis — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:49:00 -0500

Tanard Jackson has made an enormous impact since returning from his season-opening suspension. In just four games, he has recorded 27 tackles, three interceptions, one forced fumble, three passes defensed and two touchdowns. He scored for the second time this season, and the second time in his career against, clinching the game with his 35-yard interception return late in the fourth quarter.

Aqib Talib actually leads the Buccaneers in interceptions with five, but he had three in one game, which means both he and Jackson have picks in three different games.

That makes the first Buccaneer since Derrick Brooks in 2002 to have an interception in three consecutive games. Brooks enjoyed 2002 en route to the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. Brooks eventually snared five interceptions in the regular season and returned them for a total of 218 yards and three touchdowns. So far, has 61 yards and two scores on his picks.

"Tanard had an immediate impact as soon as he got back," head coach Raheem Morris said. "It was 'welcome back' with a hit, a 'welcome back' with an interception for a touchdown—you name it. He's made big plays, he's made big tackles. He's been the guy he was before he left and has come back and developed a little bit of a hunger.

"Some things work out for a reason…I'm not sure if (the suspension) wasn't a good thing for Tanard Jackson."

“T-Jax” had been a regular in the secondary since he was drafted out of in the fourth round in 2007, becoming the first defensive player to start 32 consecutive games to begin his career. His ability made him one of the Bucs' best young players, and he expected to be one of the team leaders on defense this season.

"When you're away from the team, away from everything, away from what you've been doing for years, your livelihood, the approach is now a little more serious," said.

"Tanard has been great," linebacker Barrett Ruud said. "He's just a natural football player. You can play him at corner, nickel, safety, wherever. He's just a guy who goes in and loves to play, and makes a lot of plays when he's out there. You just know what he brings to a team overall. He is such a good all-around football player.

"You can line him up in the nickel; you can line him up at safety. You can have him in the box, you can have him as a hole player. You can do everything. It’s just so nice to have a guy that versatile back there."

“I was heavy on the table for Tanard Jackson and for picking that guy up,” Morris said, “I knew he would go down a little. It was a projection that worked out in our favour in a big way.”

When arrived in , the experiment at safety turned permanent. He won the starting free safety job from Will Allen in training camp and eventually became the first defensive player in franchise history to open all 32 games in the first two seasons after he was drafted. Jackson's third season was delayed by league suspension, but since his return he has played better than ever.

“It was a smooth transition," he said of that first summer in the NFL. "I always said that when I got into the league the transition from corner to safety is much easier than safety to corner. It was different in that I had never played the position.

"I think my ability coming out of college and the ability I have as a player, the natural instincts, fit more as a safety in this league. When Raheem told me that he sees me as a safety in the NFL, I took it and ran with it."

In his rookie year, ranked second on the team with 12 passes defensed with two interceptions. In 2008, he recorded a statistic in every defensive category while ranking fourth on the team with 102 tackles and third on the team with 18 special teams tackles.

“It was very difficult to sit knowing that I had that streak," said , 24. "I had to sit for a reason that didn’t have anything to do with football. It was something that I could have controlled. You learn from your mistakes, you wish you can get that time back but you can’t. All you can do is learn from it and move on. It definitely helped me prioritize my life, what's most important.

“During that time away from football, the time away from something you love; you have nothing but time to think about those things. You think about what you want and what’s best for you."

“You can’t make up for lost time,” said. “You can’t make up for the four weeks that I’ve missed. All I can do is come in day-in and day-out, week-in and week-out and perform my job at a high level and try to pick up where I left off and only get better.”

“Since he’s been back everything has been better," said cornerback Elbert Mack.

"I don’t know what it is; he’s just been making plays and flying around. He had some time to think about what was going on. He is more focused than I have ever seen him. He’s understanding the game more and is taking advantage of every opportunity he see’s on the field. That’s what we love about him. With him back there you get that natural comfort level."

Jackson’s former position coach concurs. “He is a good player. He is a really good player. He’s been that way since he’s been here. He’s been a splash player since he’s been here. When he gets the ball in his hands, he looks like a punt returner. He scores and finds a way to be around the ball. He is a splash play type of player. He is always going to be around the football. He has been since I’ve been here”, said Morris.

“He has the ability to make a play on you. It’s been no different every week that he’s been out there playing.”

The Bucs’ No. 36 agrees. “And my job, the game I love to play, is at the top of my list."

Jeff Jagodzinski: Change of Play in Tampa Bay

Oliver Ellis — Mon, 18 May 2009 13:07:11 -0400

After seven seasons in former head coach Jon Gruden's version of the West Coast offense, Jeff Jagodzinski prepares to take over and implement his brand of attack.

"It has to start with the run game, if you can't run the football in this league, you are going to have a hard time; because off the run, if you get that established everything else will fall into place for you.

"In our game plan, we won't have more than 10 runs; there will be variations of what we do as far as the zone scheme. The thing that we're trying to do right now is teach them the concepts and getting into the fit and the backs seeing it the right way.”

The newly-installed zone blocking (made famous by Mike Shanahan in Denver) allows runners to read the play and find one of the cutback lanes that should develop. Under the man-to-man blocking scheme employed in the past, the objective was to generate a single gap for the runner.

However, if that hole doesn't develop or if the defense commits too many defenders, the back often has to try to break tackles and drop a shoulder. That means more wear and tear.

However, with Earnest Graham, Derrick Ward and Cadillac Williams on the roster, Tampa Bay has a stable of backs capable of carrying the load in rotation.

The zone-blocking system also seems a good fit for the Bucs' offensive line. The young unit is one of the league's more athletic—one of the most important qualities for a group that will employ zone blocking.

The tackles (Donald Penn and Jeremy Trueblood) are good lateral movers, and the guards have shown in the past that they are mobile enough to pull. Center Jeff Faine is regarded as one of the more agile players at his position and has proven that with his ability to get to the second level and take on linebackers.

"Our running game is going to be a downhill and physical [group]. We will run the lead zone, both strong and weak, inside and out, and we'll also run some gap schemes because of the personnel we have. We will run some power gap schemes; the zone scheme is dependent on the whole unit, not just one guy.

"[With this] scheme you really limit negative yardage plays. Even if you get back to the line of scrimmage and its second-and-10, that's okay. If it's second-and-16 because a guy misses a back block that's not okay."

It is well documented that new acquisitions and younger players struggled with their command of Jon Gruden's offense, in large part because of its extensive verbiage and numerous, complex variables. Luke McCown has remarked about the size of his new playbook (three inches) compared to Jon Gruden's (six).

“What I have tried to do is limit the terminology,” Jagodzinski said. “You can say the same thing without a lot of words. I think it will be player friendly.”

Under Jagodzinski, expect to see many elements of the West Coast offense, though the use of five and seven step quarterbacks drops and the shotgun formation will be very apparent. Luke McCown, Byron Leftwich and rookie Josh Freeman all possess the ability to throw the ball deep, unlike players such as Brad Johnson, Brian Griese and Jeff Garcia—hallmark quarterbacks of the Gruden era.

"I don't think you can lock into one thing," said Jagodzinski, who has worked under several coaches who utilize the West Coast scheme. It's a term that Jagodzinski isn't entirely secure with because he thinks the term is too broad and doesn't accurately describe what he plans to establish in Tampa Bay.

Jagodzinski is confident he can get more receivers involved in the passing game. Whereas Gruden's offense tended to feature particular players (Antonio Bryant in 2008, Joey Galloway in 2005-7 and Clayton in 2004), Jagodzinski seems more likely to spread it around.

"(Tight end particularly) always has been a big part of this offense," he said. "Kellen, I think, does some things with match-ups I think we can get that are really going to benefit us this year. We can put him in different spots and move him around to get the matchup that we want.

"He can get in and out of a cut like a receiver. He’s good. I’m really looking forward to working with him. He’s been great out at practice, asking a lot of questions. . . I came off the field (Monday) saying, ‘I think we have something good there with him.’"

There will be opportunities for Winslow and Stevens to run receiving routes on the same play. At least, that's the plan.

"We will do that," Jagodzinski said. "Defenses are going to have to decide whether they’re going to play you in regular personnel, are they going to play nickel. If they play regular, you have Kellen on a linebacker. If you play nickel, then you have the run. They’re going to have to make a decision."

In 2009, Buc fans will see many of the concepts similar to some employed by Gruden, but they'll be used in very different doses and out of different formations and sets.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Training Camp 2009: Wide Receiver Competition

Oliver Ellis — Sun, 17 May 2009 21:00:23 -0400

Like many things unknown at One Buc Place this off-season, the depth chart at wide receiver also falls under that category.

It is difficult to know what to expect from the Buccaneers receiving corps now that the playbook has changed, along with the quarterback. The lack of household names is too intriguing; veterans Joey Galloway (now of the New England Patriots) and Ike Hilliard are long gone, released in the team's purge of veterans in late February.

The only precept of Tampa’s receivers is this: Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton are generally expected to start.

Antonio Bryant had a Pro Bowl-calibre season in 2008 with 83 catches, 1,248 yards and seven touchdowns. He was designated as Tampa Bay’s franchise player for this year, but seemingly as the main aerial threat to opposing defenses and now having to develop a rapport with a new quarterback, his production may suffer.

On the other flank is annual comeback candidate Michael Clayton. The former first round selection had 80 receptions, 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns in his 2004 rookie season but never again reached those heights, citing injury and Jon Gruden’s mistrust as reasons for consecutive disappointing seasons.

New General Manager Mark Dominik resigned the mercurial Clayton to a five-year, $10.5 million deal, believing that new offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski can relight his career and bring back the sensation of 2004.

Now in a more vertical attack, the Bucs expect real improvement on his 38 catches and 484 yards of last year. Encouragingly, Clayton caught a 58-yard touchdown in Tampa’s last game of the season, showing he can still be a danger to defenses.

It's likely a third receiver will loom large in this offense. The Buccaneers’ talented tight-end group will catch plenty of passes too, particularly with Kellen Winslow Jr. on the field.

With such a presence, perhaps a slot receiver can become a true threat in the Bucs arsenal. This is where the interest begins; as that position is wide open come training camp. Three of the following are Buccaneer draftees, whilst four are free agents.

2008 second-rounder Dexter Jackson's still on the roster, though he will have to make one amazing leap to escape his status as perhaps the worst draft pick of the Jon Gruden era.

Jackson is under-sized, but his incredible speed (4.33 at the NFL Combine) can be game-breaking if utilised correctly.

If Jackson can be on the field and catch short-to-medium length passes, he can make the kind of impact he made against the University of Michigan, where he hauled in three passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns in a historic upset.

Meanwhile, Maurice Stovall, who has one career touchdown and who is yet to catch more than 10 passes in a season, is coming off an injury—again. Stovall is a special-teams ace with excellent size and in the right system could resemble something of a poor man’s Terrell Owens.

However, Stovall will have to show more drive and intensity to win a higher spot in the depth chart; he was rarely more than a fourth receiver in Jon Gruden’s offense.

Brian Clark, a special-teams worker, returns. Played in 20 career games with the Buccaneers and Denver Broncos, and career numbers include five receptions for 35 yards and 29 kickoff returns for 636 yards (21.9 avg.) Also has 11 special teams tackles, one blocked punt and one fumble recovery.

Clark is an outside shot at the No. 3, but has as much chance as any at claiming the position for his own in this new offense. May not even make it out of camp should others impress.

Little-known Cortez Hankton is still around after going on injured reserve with a knee injury in the '08 preseason. He originally entered the NFL an undrafted free agent from TexasSouthern in 2003.

Hankton played four seasons for Jacksonville and has 34 receptions for 310 yards and two touchdowns in his career. Signed with Tampa Bay prior to last season and again this off-season—may make it to preseason but probably not to the final 53.

The real wild-card of the wide-outs is 2009 seventh-round pick Sammie Stroughter out of Oregon State. At 6 feet and 186 pounds, has a legitimate opportunity not only to make the team, but see considerable playing time as a slot receiver.

Described as "one of the pleasant surprises of the camp" by head coach Raheem Morris; two 1,000-yard receiving seasons for the Beavers, a third-team All-America punt returner the previous season (after returning three for touchdowns) and 1,293 receiving yards, fourth most in school history—Stroughter will have more than ample opportunity to break into the rotation.

“He’s a guy who can go inside and make plays and get vertical, he's impressive. I like everything about him”, said Morris. And given the lack of depth at receiver, his selection could yet pay dividends.

Beyond that, we're talking about a handful of so-called street free agents. Among them is former Georgia Tech standout Kelly Campbell and former USF star Amarri Jackson.

Formerly of the Minnesota Vikings in 2002, Campbellled the CFL last season with 22.6 yards per reception average, and he caught 54 passes for 1,223 yards while scoring seven touchdowns.

He managed a 72-yard strike in 2003 and has shown some deep-threat promise. At 28, this may be his last chance in the NFL, so Campbell (like Antonio Bryant last year) has something to prove.

Lastly is Amarri Jackson, former South Florida Bull and Floridanative. He is a serious outsider for a roster spot as (like Campbell) an undrafted free agent and just 26 receptions for 393 and 3 touchdowns in his best collegiate year. Again however, the lack of a true slot receiver in Tampa Bay allows open competition and the chance to impress staff.

Morris’ words best some up his attitude towards the roster, and the receivers are no different. "I'm trying to create the most competitive environment as I can… I'm just running a big defensive back room, that's all I'm doing is creating competition. There just happens to be 66 of them right now rather than 15.''

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A Season of Uncertainty

Oliver Ellis — Fri, 15 May 2009 17:06:10 -0400

"It's the media's job to have low expectations," Morris, 32, said. "It's my job to change them."

Raheem Morris and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are faced with a season of certainty. A new head coach and coordinators. A new general manager. A new quarterback. A new defense, minus Hall of Fame bound Derrick Brooks, to say nothing of a gruelling schedule, which includes a trip to London to face the New England Patriots.

"There have been low expectations since I got here," Morris said.
"Expectations were low in 2007, and we went to the playoffs. Expectations were low last year, and we won nine games. We've got some players here. We've got enough. We've got to make it enough."

In the eyes of many, this is the biggest problem the Buccaneers face.

With the 2009 regular season opener less than four months away, several Bucs have much to prove.

Players like DE Gaines Adams, WR Michael Clayton, and SS Sabby Piscitelli now have to deliver as full-time starters.

Gaines Adams led the team with 6.5 sacks in 2008, but new defensive coordinator Jim Bates expects much more from the fourth overall selection in the ‘07 draft. Adams lacks variety in his repertoire and he has been far too easy for tackles to steer him wide and away from the quarterback.

Bates has got production out of pass rushing defensive ends before, most notably former Pro Bowler Jason Taylor in Miami. Morris will hope that Adams can reach double digit sacks for 2009.

Clayton, newly contracted for another four years at around $10 million, has been unproductive since a superb rookie year in 2004. This is his opportunity to succeed under new offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski and prove he was under-utilized in Jon Gruden’s scheme.

Sabby Piscitelli started five games last year for injured Jermaine Phillips and intercepted two passes, but he was caught out of position too often and must prove that he is up to the task, especially now that Phillips has moved to linebacker.

Las Vegas oddsmakers say the Bucs will struggle to win seven games this season and doubt if the franchise can post a third consecutive winning record.

Most outside of One Buccaneer Place do not rate these 2009 Buccaneers. Andrew Perloff of SI.com projects the Bucs to finish the season with the No. 3 draft pick.

Todd McShay of ESPN has them picking 12th. Peter King of Sports Illustrated ranks the Bucs 26th in his power rankings and Pete Prisco of CBS Sportsline ranks them 22nd.

Jason Cole, the NFL columnist of Yahoo.com, has the Bucs ranked 32nd in his power poll. Bodog.com makes them 40-1 to win the Super Bowl, and only nine teams have higher odds.

"I don't care how bad a team is rated coming into the season, nobody is going to give you a win in this league, period," said wide receiver Antonio Bryant after the Buccaneers' "organized team activity day" (OTA) practice on Wednesday.

"Everybody's starting off at zero. A win is a win. No matter how we get those wins, we get them. The goal is to win as many as you can to get to that second tier. The second tier is the playoffs, and then you continue from there."

Morris is attempting to go directly from a position coach (secondary) to a head coach at the age of 32. That’s a tough transition for anyone, especially for the coach of a rebuilding franchise that lacks an established quarterback.

Relative unknown Luke McCown believes that it’s his job to lose, whilst veteran Byron Leftwich is very much in the running. Don’t forget that the Bucs spent a first round draft pick on one Josh Freeman of Kansas State, with whom Morris is particularly enamoured. With this the case, it is not surprising that bookmakers are mistrustful of this new look franchise.

"You can't worry about other people's expectations," Morris said. "We have our team goals, and our team goals are to win championships. NFC South championships. Conference championships. World championships. When we start thinking about those as our goals, we've got issues."

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Training Camp 2009: Quarterback Competition

Oliver Ellis — Sat, 09 May 2009 11:47:05 -0400

New Head Coach Raheem Morris has declared the quarterback position as “open competition” this summer, and with three potential starters on the roster, things should be very interesting.

Luke McCown was re-signed with a two-year, $7.5m contract, which many believe to be starting money. McCown has a career quarterback rating of 75.2; however, he started three games for the Buccaneers in 2007 and finished with a rating of 91.7 and a 67.6 passing completion percentage—not to mention his excellent performance against the New Orleans Saints in the Superdome.

McCown would appear to be the front-runner after several years on the bench. McCown’s athleticism and arm strength are superb, which makes him a natural fit for Jeff Jagodzinski’s offense – but some question marks remain over his decision-making.

The enigmatic Byron Leftwich will be in camp; he should be fresh and raring to compete after back-up duty last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Leftwich appeared in five games, throwing two touchdowns and no interceptions and finishing with a rating of 104.3.

He too has been signed to a similar deal as McCown: two years, right around the $7m mark, though it is rumoured that Leftwich’s deal is more incentive-laden.

Leftwich is a well-known face throughout the NFL, a former seventh overall draft pick in 2003 with the Jacksonville Jaguars and a disappointing season with the infamous 2007Atlanta Falcons. Leftwich admits, “I give myself a mulligan for that year," but the Buccaneers know what they get with the 29-year-old signal caller.

He is strong-armed, solid in decision-making and making reads and not fazed by pressure. However, the big knocks against Leftwich are that his footwork and mobility are somewhat sluggish and his release is a drawn-out process.

With a good offensive line in front of him, Leftwich can be very successful, but asking Leftwich to scramble and buy time—not unlike former teammate Ben Roethlisberger—may be asking too much.

No one was particularly surprised when Tampa Bay selected Kansas State product Josh Freeman with the 17th pick (after trading up from 19) as Raheem Morris has long been enamoured with the young man.

At 6’6" and 248lbs, the 21-year-old Freeman has all the physical tools to be successful as an NFL quarterback. In 35 games with the Wildcats, Freeman finished with a rating of 124.73, throwing 44 touchdowns and 34 interceptions and finishing with a completion percentage of 59.1.

Freeman has the fleet of foot to buy time outside of the tackle box and hit deep completions, or simply stand tall in the pocket and make his check-downs.

The last first-round quarterback pick for the Bucs was Trent Dilfer in 1994, who later went on to win a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens.

Freeman, however, is no game-manager. The Buccaneers’ new No. 5 is being modelled by General Manager Mark Dominik as the new "face of the franchise" in a similar style to the Mannings, McNabbs, and Matt Ryans of the NFL.

Personally, I would expect Freeman to “red-shirt” his rookie year and adjust to the speed and style of pro-football, though the aforementioned Ryan and Ravens’ Joe Flacco broke the mould as rookie quarterbacks leading teams to the play-offs. Should Freeman truly impress in camp, he may well be under centre on Sept. 13 against the Dallas Cowboys.

Draft Preview: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Oliver Ellis — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 18:11:44 -0400

With the 2009 NFL Draft now days away, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (with new head coach Raheem Morris and new General Manager Mark Dominik) have already made several positive moves through free agency and trades, but there is still much to be done with the 2009 Bucs.

The new leadership has talked of a "youth-movement" in purging the roster of some older stars, so finding quick-impact players through the draft is already a must.

Draft order: First Round (19), Third Round (83), 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 7th, 7th

*No second-round selection; 51st pick traded to Cleveland Browns for TE Kellen Winslow Jr.

As always, a question mark remains at quarterback. Luke McCown has resigned for money that suggests he is in position to play, whilst 2008 red-shirt Josh Johnson is back, along with former Gruden favourite Brian Griese. Griese may not make the final roster, as he does not seem to fit with offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzkinski's style of quarterback.

Raheem Morris has openly said he would like a fourth quarterback in camp, and the draft may be where he finds his man. With experience at Kansas State, Morris knows all about Josh Freeman, who is an absolute specimen at 6'6'' and 250lbs. Freeman's arm would be welcome in this new Buccaneer attack, though whether or not he will still be on the board at No. 19 remains to be seen with the 17th pick owned by the Brett Favre-less New York Jets.

With Jim Bates' new defensive scheme relying on larger, run-stuffing defensive tackles, Tampa must see this as a position of need. Career disappointment Ryan Sims is the incumbent starter along with veteran Chris Hovan, but neither truly fit the bill in this change of gap scheme, and the Bucs need some real quality at the position. Peria Jerry out of Ole Miss. would be a nice fit here.

Finally, the Bucs will almost certainly look to cornerback, where veteran Ronde Barber remains. Barber is a play-maker and threat from the slot, and is certainly aggressive enough to play Bates' style of bump-and-run coverage—whether Barber can perform in a man-to-man system is unknown. Remember, Calvin Johnson and Brandon Lloyd had superb outings when alone against Barber, so he may not handle the switch from Tampa-2 zone so well.

Phillip Buchanon has departed for the Detroit Lions, so 2008 first-round choice Aqib Talib takes over at starter. Talib had four interceptions in his rookie season and is incredibly physical at the snap. Behind him is Elbert Mack, an undersized corner the Bucs are high on for his vicious hitting, and Torrie Cox, who spent last season on injured reserve.

Another single-coverage specialist would be welcome in camp. Sean Smith from Utah or Vontae Davis of Illinois would be solid additions, though it is unlikely the Bucs select a corner in the first round for two consecutive years.

Luke McCown: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Starting Quarterback?

Oliver Ellis — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 17:35:22 -0400

Under the new regime of Raheem Morris and Mark Dominik, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers new offense under Jeff Jagodzinski is set to be more aggressive, smash-mouth, and full of big-play, down-field threat.

Such a system requires a certain kind of quarterback, and the Buccaneers have something of a quandary at the position, as it is less than apparent in who will lead the team on opening day.

Though nothing is set in stone for the 2009 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 27-year-old Luke McCown feels he is definitely part of the plan.

"We are getting rolling with the offense," said McCown. "I'm looking forward to the opportunities. We are getting acquainted with the offense and [Jeff Jagodzinski], and his way of doing things. There is a lot of open, real good communication going on right now as far as the offense and his installation of it, and how we the players perceive it.

"Having been through [Jon] Gruden's offense for five years and having that ingrained, there needs to be that communication of translating things. I think of the guys that are here, the receivers, the running backs, have done a really good job. We've have had some time together to pick up on his philosophy of offense."

The Bucs re-signed McCown to a two-year, $7.5 million contract before the free agent signing period began in late-February. The decision to re-sign McCown was one of the factors that led to the decision to not re-sign Jeff Garcia, whom McCown backed up for the majority of the 2008 season.

Moving away from former head coach Jon Gruden's version of the West Coast offense, McCown likes the concepts of Jagodzinski's system.

"Yeah I think so, everybody talked about the complexity of Coach Gruden's system and it was at times, but the volume of it was what made it tough to grasp sometimes," McCown said.

"It was how much he had going into a game plan, and from the installation that we've had with coach Jags we kind of get an understanding that the volume as far as game plans, and overall, is going to be cut down. We can still do all the same things that we did. We can still match up personnel wise in the same ways that we did in previous years. It is just the verbiage and the volume of memorization is not going to be as much, and I think that is going to help."

McCown has a 1-6 record as a starter in the NFL (1-2 in Tampa) and has a career quarterback rating of 75.2. However, he owns a 91 QB rating in the seven games (three starts) with the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay currently has three quarterbacks on its roster in McCown, veteran Brian Griese and untested Josh Johnson, but head coach Raheem Morris and Jagodzinski plan to bring four signal-callers to training camp.

Tampa Bay could still draft a quarterback in April, but McCown feels the Bucs are allowing him to compete for a starting job in 2009. While the Bucs haven't expressed much interest in free agent quarterbacks, they have been linked to rumors and reports that suggest Broncos QB Jay Cutler is on his way out of Denver.

"All anybody ever needs is a chance," McCown said. "A lot of people wanted to cut Matt Cassel after the preseason last year and go with Kevin O'Connell, the guy they drafted, as the two. All he needed was a chance, and he did a hell of a job last year, so all anybody is ever looking for is a chance.

"I feel as much or more skill, athletic ability, ability to throw the ball, and accuracy as anybody in the league. I just need that opportunity to grow into being a proven experienced guy. You can't go out and buy it. You don't get it coming out of college.

"You have to wait your turn, if that is sitting on the bench for five years, six years, then that is just kind of the way it goes. I'm ready. I feel like I'm ready, if I'm not ready now after six years, I don't know when you will be ready. I'm going to take my lumps as everybody does, but I'm going to get better through them."

Despite the Jay Cutler saga, McCown is not disheartened. He feels he is the man to lead the new-look Bucs.

"My job is go out and prove that I'm the franchise guy," McCown said. "I have a year or two to prove that. What they feel like they need to do is what they feel is best for the organization. I love the Bucs. I love being here. I'm glad to be here. I want the Bucs to succeed.

"Mark wants to be the best [general manager] that he can be, Raheem was to be the best head coach that he can be, they have to do their jobs and their jobs is to put together the best team that they can put together.

"If they feel like that is another option, I can't blame them for it. I wouldn't agree with it. I have the opportunity to prove now that I'm the franchise guy that they are looking for. The guy that is going to be the quarterback here for the next seven, eight, nine years, and I'm going to do my very best to prove that."

Buc Stops Here: Raheem Morris "Inaugurated" as Tampa Bay Head Coach

Oliver Ellis — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 16:50:37 -0500

With America's first black president days away from his inauguration, 32-year-old Raheem Morris today went through something similar.

In front of the notorious Tampa media once dubbed the "dumbest in America" by Warren Sapp, Morris smiled and joked with reporters as he faced a range of questions on his new post as Buccaneers head coach, a day after Jon Gruden's abrupt firing.

When his situation was likened to that of Barack Obama's, Morris sheepishly grinned, "I don't want to put President Obama and I in the same sentence right now," before adding, "I appreciate the compliment(!)"

Such was the demeanour of Tampa's new head coach. Taking over from the seven-year stint of Jon Gruden, Morris was defensive backs coach last season.

"I received a call yesterday afternoon. I walked into One Buc Place, met with my bosses, and found out I was getting a promotion."

"I just got a promotion as defensive coordinator with the Buccaneers. I had a chance at that time to talk with my bosses, the Glazers, about my philosophies, beliefs, etc. I got the call on my way to get a haircut."

Whilst the press were keen to get down to business, Morris was quite clear about the nature of the press conference.

"There's a plan in place. We have plenty of time to talk about that. I can't give you any specifics regarding the coaching staff. There is a plan. I'm just trying to enjoy this."

New general manager Mark Dominik has been in the organisation since 1995 and worked as a pro personnel director for the past eight years.

Dominik did not address the media, but Morris said, "Mark and I have worked together a long time. We've seen each other rise and seen each other fall. We've done some great things together. He's going to listen to your opinion, weigh it, and respect it. He's a tireless worker. I have nothing but respect for Mark."

When finally asked about his predecessor, Jon Gruden, Morris said, "It's always bittersweet. I learned so much from Jon and respect him.

"When he says the things he said to me in a text today, I am fine with that. He told me to take this thing and run with it, and that's what I plan to do."

Jon Gruden Gone, Raheem Morris To Be Announced As Head Coach

Oliver Ellis — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 11:09:53 -0500

In the most shocking move of the offseason, Tampa Bay Buccaneers owners, the Glazer family, announced the dismissals of both head coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen.

It is expected that current defensive coordinator, 32-year-old Raheem Morris will be announced head coach today, along with former pro personnel director Mark Domenik to the general manager position.

For Tampa Bay, a 9-3 start preceded an winless December, with the Buccaneers missing out on a play-off berth for the fourth time in six seasons. Whilst many have speculated that former defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin's announcement to leave the team at the end of the season contributed hugely to the defensive collapse, the Glazer family have gone for a full retooling of their ailing franchise.

Jon Gruden became the youngest head coach to ever win a Super Bowl in 2003, but the roller-coaster of results in following years eventually took their toll. The Bucs have been unable to establish a true franchise quarterback, with Brad Johnson, Brian Griese, Chris Simms, Luke McCown and Jeff Garcia all seeing action over Gruden's tenure.

Bruce Allen has always been perceived as a salary cap manager rather than a talent evaluator, and Buccaneer drafts under his tenure would support that. Under his direction, however, the Bucs have around $46 million to spend on re-signing their numerous free agents (including leader receiver Antonio Bryant) and make a run at some upgrades this offseason.

Morris has never been a head coach at any level, although Denver were reportedly very impressed with his interview. The Glazer family seem to be taking an option that much of the league has, in finding a young coach to revitalise a stagnant team. Last time they did it, the Bucs won a Super Bowl.

Morris is a motivator and a high-energy type of character. He is thoroughly popular with the players and has already begun filling defensive vacancies with the return of 2001-2006 linebackers coach Joe Barry to the fold.

New G.M. Mark Domenik has spent 14 years with the Bucs, joining the team in 1995 as a pro personnel assistant under then general manager Rich McKay. He recently interviewed for the general manager position with the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Glazers have shocked fans and players alike with this move, but with nearly $50 million under the cap, the Buccaneers will attempt to affirm the direction of the team over the spring. The Buccaneers have a strong, young core in place, with a sprinkling of veteran leadership on the roster.

More talent is needed at wide receiver, along with some pass-rush from the defensive line. Morris must now select a quarterback, whether veteran Jeff Garcia or unproven Luke McCown returns.

Brian Griese is still under contract, but is not the answer. Josh Johnson is raw and still very much a project. A first-day draft pick may prove to be the answer for long-term stability.

"Our ultimate goal every year is to win a championship," Glazer said. "And that's always been our goal and it will remain our goal and we're going to go about things to attain the goals we believe in.

"And we have core fundamental beliefs that we've had since the day we got here. And we thought it was important for our core fundamental beliefs that we make a change."

Creature Vs. Creature: Buccaneers at Panthers on Monday Night Football

Oliver Ellis — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:53:22 -0500

ESPN’s Monday Night Football will air its biggest game of the season so far Dec. 8, when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to the Carolina Panthers for a titanic clash that could very well determine the 2008 NFC South champion.

Both teams enter the game with a 9-3 record. The Buccaneers are coming off a solid performance at home to New Orleans, where they were able to hold quarterback Drew Brees to under 300 passing yards and intercept him three times. Tampa Bay improved to 6-1 since Jeff Garcia regained the starting quarterback job.

The Buccaneers are a tie-breaker ahead of the second-place Panthers, who had a tough time overcoming the Green Bay Packers last week in a 35-31 win. Running back DeAngelo Williams scored four rushing touchdowns and the rejuvenated Jake Delhomme added another on the ground. Receiver Steve Smith is hitting form at the right time, taking a huge 54-yard reception to the Packers 1-yard line, beating two Green Bay defenders to make the grab.

The Tampa Bay defense will have to perform at its fourth-ranked level to keep these threats under wraps.

The Buccaneers will win if...

Jeff Garcia plays well

The Bucs’ hopes depend on the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback, who has completed 67.2 percent of his passes for 1,902 yards, eight touchdowns and three interceptions this season. If the Buccaneers' offensive line plays as well as it can do (only 11 sacks surrendered) then Garcia can make things happen. The Panthers must be wary of Garcia’s feet, as he scrambled for 42 yards on seven attempts last weekend.

The defense stays hot

Tampa Bay is famous for its defense, and it has been the backbone of the Bucs' success once again this year. The Panthers have surrendered only 18 sacks this season, so the Buccaneers will have to turn up the pressure on Delhomme to force turnovers. Tampa has 17 interceptions and six fumbles on the year, but more will be needed to stop the rugged Panther offense.

If the Buccaneers' defense can hold another run game in check (only one team, Kansas City, have had a 100-yard back against the Bucs) then Carolina will have to rely on their aerial attack. Tampa Bay is ranked third in the league against the pass, so the Panthers must be wary of taking to the air. The Bucs intercepted Delhomme three times in the week six matchup.

The Buccaneers' will lose if...

They can't find a running game of their own

Tampa's rushing attack has been spluttering at times. Warrick Dunn has been very good, but isn't an ideal bruiser. The loss of leading rusher Earnest Graham to IR hurts. With Graham out, the task falls on Dunn and Carnell "Cadillac" Williams. Proving he is back to full fitness, Williams chipped in with an 8-yard touchdown last week against New Orleans’ He may yet be crucial down the stretch.

Their road inconsistencies continue

The Buccaneers struggled mightily in the first half away to Kansas City, a team fighting for wins. The Bucs are 3-3 on the road, and it took big comebacks and overtime field goals in Chicago and Kansas City to win. The Bucs were expected to crush the then Romo-less Dallas Cowboys, but could only stutter offensively and commit multiple penalties in a close defeat. The Buccaneers will not be taking Carolina lightly, as the division crown is on the line—but, judging by the Bucs’ road play this season, don’t be surprised to see the Panthers score first.

The X-Factor

Antonio Bryant

Whilst this former bad-boy receiver spent last year on the couch, he is having a Pro Bowl-caliber year this season. Bryant has excelled in the protracted absence of Joey Galloway, as both the ideal possession receiver and deep-threat.

Prediction

The Buccaneers defense needs to make stops and force turnovers to get Garcia and the offense on the field. If Garcia can find his receivers early, then the hostile Charlotte crowd will quiet, and the Bucs can grind the game out.

If the Buccaneers fail to apply pressure to Delhomme and danger backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart room, then the likes of Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad will hurt the Bucs.

The Bucs last battled Carolina in Charlotte on a Monday Night in 2006. The Buccaneers were crushed that night, and will be determined to not let that happen again. Tampa Bay has won the last three games against the Panthers now, and will hope to make it a season sweep on national television.

Buccaneers 23, Panthers 20

For the Carolina Panthers view, check out Panther community leader Austin Penny's response.

Jermaine Phillips Must Be Re-Signed By the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Oliver Ellis — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 07:28:04 -0500

Jermaine Phillips is one heck of a safety. He's one of the best in the NFC.

He should have gone to the Pro Bowl last year ahead of Dallas' Roy Williams. Injury will keep him out this year. Phillips had 83 tackles, four interceptions, and a sack last season, missing one game through injury. This season, he has missed four games with a broken forearm he suffered at Dallas. A metal plate holds the bones in place.

"I have two plates—one on each side," Phillips explained.

He has 41 tackles and two picks this year. Both have been huge. The first was instrumental in the defeat of Carolina in October, and the second was ever bigger.

Playing his first game in more than a month, Phillips provided a clutch, fourth-quarter interception of New Orleans' Drew Brees to set up Matt Bryant's winning 37-yard field goal with 1:55 remaining in the Bucs' 23-20 victory.

"I like to say I'm a human sacrifice," Phillips said. "I throw my body in there at will for the team. I love to do it. That's my role, and that's what I'm going to do. It's either I'm playing real physical and I'm going to break some bones, which happens, or I've got some really weak bones and I need to drink more milk."

Drew Brees, who hung 51 points on the Packers on Monday and is on pace to break Dan Marino's season yardage record, passed for 296 yards and two touchdowns. But the Bucs intercepted him three times.

The victory improved the Bucs to 9-3 and kept them tied atop the NFC South with the Panthers heading into their Monday night showdown with Carolina.

Phillips can become a free agent at the end of the season and knows Sabby Piscitelli, a second-round pick in 2007, is here to take his job. He doesn't worry about it.

"Enjoy the people you're around while you're here, and if you can help somebody out, help them out," Phillips said. "That's what (John) Lynch and Dexter (Jackson) did for me, and I just want to continue to do that for them. When it comes down to it, this game is bigger than me."

Many Bucs fans are high on Piscitelli as a starter. He reminds many of John Lynch—quick and hard-hitting. But Phillips is a leader on this team. He is a key cog in one of the better secondaries in the league that ranks third against the pass. The Bucs are fourth in total defense.

Jermaine Phillips is too good a safety to lose to free agency. He will command big money this offseason, so General Manager Bruce Allen would be wise to avoid a bidding war for Phillips' services.

In his own words, Phillips said, encouragingly:

"This safety position in Tampa, I want it to carry on."

Bucaneers-Patriots Coming to England in 2009

Oliver Ellis — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 06:18:27 -0500

Hours removed from the Buccaneers' dramatic win over division rival New Orleans Saints yesterday, the news was released that Tampa Bay will be part of the NFL's "International Series" for 2009.

On Oct. 25th, 2009, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will face the New England Patriots at Wembley Stadium in London, England, for the third instalment of NFL football in the U.K.

Both the Buccaneers and Patriots are defending division champions and both are strong contenders to return to the playoffs in 2008. Tampa Bay is 9-3 and tied for first in the NFC South; the Patriots are 7-5 and a game out of first place in the AFC East. Both teams play in ultra-competitive divisions in which all four teams are at .500 or better.

"Over the past two years, we have seen first-hand the excitement that exists for our sport in the UK," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "The games have helped us to deepen our connection with UK fans as well as create new ones. We are looking forward to another outstanding game in 2009."

The Buccaneers owners, the Glazer family, already have ties with the U.K. The Glazers own Manchester United, the world's most popular and valuable sports team. United have won two consecutive English Premier League titles as well as the 2008 Champions League crown, the most prestigous club competition in the world.

"The Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization is extremely excited and honored to be chosen to participate in the NFL International Series," Bucs executive vice president Joel Glazer said in a statement released by the team.

"We look forward to being part of the NFL's global outreach and playing our great game in front of Buccaneers fans overseas."

As a British Buc fan, I am overjoyed at seeing my team visit. As far as the game is concerned, Tampa are losing a home game, which is unfortunate as the Bucs are 6-0 at Raymond James Stadium this year; and New England will almost certainly have Tom Brady back at full fitness, who is arguably the best quarterback in the league today.

The game will be a difficult one for Tampa Bay, but increasing the brand name in the U.K. while performing to their surprisingly numerous British fan-base will be an exciting prospect.

Buccaneers-Saints: Tampa Bay Defense Ready for Drew Brees

Oliver Ellis — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 04:13:42 -0500

This Sunday, the number one ranked offense comes to Tampa. Quarterback Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints are coming, and the Buccaneer defense faces its toughest test of the season. The Buccaneers are ranked second in the NFL, allowing just 174.6 yards through the air, and 274.7 in total defense. They will be stretched to their limits by the black-and-gold No. 9.

Brees is being widely touted as this year's league MVP. It's not hard to understand why. 3,574 passing yards. 22 touchdowns. A passer rating of 99.9. In short, the man is having a superb season. If the Saints had a stronger defense, they would be very much in the thick of the crowded NFC playoff race. But don't count them out yet.

The Saints are coming off an impressive 51-29 win against the Green Bay Packers last Monday night. New Orleans tied a team record for points scored and touchdowns in a game with seven scores.

"They have a great quarterback. It starts right there," said head coach Jon Gruden. "He's in one heck of a scheme...Drew is a great player."

Buccaneers defensive tackle Chris Hovan agrees.

"Drew Brees has had an MVP year. They talk about Kurt Warner in Arizona, and this guy in New Orleans is really leading his team to victories. They are dangerous."

Rookie cornerback Aqib Talib struggled in his first game. That fateful game was opening day, Sept. 7—in the Superdome. The Bucs fell to a 24-20 defeat that day, with Brees firing three touchdowns. Talib was beaten deep by Saints receiver David Patten for a touchdown, but he has since emerged as a playmaker for Tampa Bay and leads the team in interceptions with three.

"We have to keep all of the routes in front of us and let nothing behind us," said Talib. "We have to tackle well. They get a lot of yards after the catch. We're going to try to disrupt their timing and try to get some pressure on them."

Talib feels that he will be more prepared for the Saints in this return fixture.

"I've learned a whole lot," said Talib. "Stay deeper than the deepest."

The Tampa-2 is built on quarterback pressure, and the Bucs recognize that is what they need if they are to win this game.

Through 11 games, Brees has only been sacked nine times. The Buccaneers bring a pass rush into the game with nine sacks in the last two games.

"You saw on Monday night what happens when you don't rush Drew Brees," said Hovan. "They had two sacks, and those were on blitzes and coverage sacks. You need to get pressure on this guy quick, and in his face.

"It is imperative that we get pressure up the middle on this guy. He doesn't like pressure in his face. He is a great quarterback, and we will have to do everything that we can to get to him. It could really determine the momentum in the game."

A Buc success story of this year is defensive lineman Jimmy Wilkerson. A free agent buried on the Kansas City depth chart last year, Wilkerson has hit his form in the last few games, with two sacks last Sunday against the Lions.

"Brees is a smart quarterback, one of the smartest in the league," said Wilkerson. "He knows when to hold it and when to throw it. We've got to get in his face and get our hands up because he's not a very tall quarterback. If we can disrupt him...we have a good chance to pick off some passes and force him to run."

Jeff Garcia Will Make Or Break The NFC South Race

Oliver Ellis — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 06:06:53 -0500

Jeff Garcia is the well-travelled veteran. From San Francisco to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, Jeff Garcia has never been so important as he is now, in Tampa.

In short, the Buccaneers' offensive success hinges on Jeff Garcia. He understands Gruden's scheme. He knows his receivers. He'll happily check down to Warrick Dunn or the clutch Ike Hilliard. He's brought Antonio Bryant back from the wilderness. He's even getting production from Michael Clayton, who has struggled since 2004.

Garcia's ability to stretch the pocket and force defensive linemen to chase him are among his greatest strengths. His legs are his "ally", according to head coach Jon Gruden. There isn't a quarterback like him in the NFL today.

The Buccaneers are 8-3, top of the NFC South. They have a remaining schedule of New Orleans, then at Carolina on Monday Night Football, then Atlanta in the Georgia Dome, before finishing with two home games against the AFC West's San Diego and Oakland.
Tough games. But winnable games.

On Sunday, the Buccaneers face divisional foe New Orleans at Raymond James Stadium. When the Bucs last faced the Saints in the Superdome, Jeff Garcia was distinctly off-colour, and the Bucs fell to a 27-24 opening day defeat.

Garcia lost his starting job that day. Brian Griese came in, and didn't get the job done, despite an impressive comeback win in Chicago. Griese hurt his elbow in the Bucs' loss to Denver, and Garcia took over.

Since then, he has thrown for 1,783 yards and seven touchdowns. He completes 69.8 percent of his passes and has only thrown three interceptions. His rating is 94.5. Simply, Garcia is in excellent form.

He does not have the spectacular stats of Drew Brees, but his efficiency and penchant for ball-security fits perfectly into Tampa Bay's scheme. Providing the top-10 Buccaneer defense stays hot (24 sacks, 14 picks, and averaging only 16.4 points per game), Garcia is always in a position to make plays.

If the Buccaneers can continue their excellent home form (5-0), then they will be well-placed to retain the NFC South. Should they do this, they will be the first team to do so since the league's 2002 realignment.

A road victory at Carolina in front of the nation will go a long way to showing the rest of league exactly what kind of team they are.

If the Buccaneers can win out their remaining five games, they will be superbly placed for a play-off run. If Garcia can remain injury-free, then Tampa could be a surprise package in the NFC race.

The Cadillac Is Back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Oliver Ellis — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:50:11 -0500

Over 400 days have passed since Carnell "Cadillac" Williams tore the patellar tendon in his right knee in September game at Carolina. The former first-round pick, fifth overall out of Auburn, has endured a long and grueling recovery and rehabilitation process. Some predicted he would never play football again.

But as of Wednesday, "Cadillac" is officially back, activated from the Reserve/Physically Unable To Perform list and back on the active roster. To make room for Williams in the 53, veteran running back Michael Bennett was released.

Many had labelled Williams a "bust" after his poor 2006 season and then the horrific injury after a promising start to 2007. His stats however, are good. In 32 games, Williams has rushed for 2,184 yards on 569 carries and 10 touchdowns. Behind Tampa's up-and-coming offensive line of young stars, much changed to the woeful 2006 version. Williams is well placed to get his career back on track.

Fellow backs Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn have had success in this team, and at some stage this season, particularly as Tampa Bay push for the play-offs, Williams may find a key role in this offense.

"If we could ever get Warrick Dunn and Earnest Graham and Carnell Williams [together], that would be exciting for us," said Gruden.

"Obviously, this is a process and we'll take it day by day. As we gather more and more information, get evidence that he's 100 percent back, obviously his role will be determined by that."

The 2005 NFL Rookie of the Year made one of the most stunning debuts in league history that year when he ran for a record 434 yards in his first three games. He is almost starting all over again, just like in 2005.

"I do feel like I can come in and help the team," Williams said. "My role, how much I get to play, is up to the coaches. I'm going in with the view that I'm going to contribute. That's how I've prepared myself.

"I feel like I'm in good football shape. I've been practicing the last three weeks, and I feel really good about it. The number of carries is totally out of my hands. I'm just looking to contribute in any way that I can."

Head coach Jon Gruden remains cautious about throwing his star into the fray too soon.

"I don't know about game-day activations at this point," Gruden said. "This is a process, and right now I want to see if he can carry the ball 30 times again tomorrow.

"I just want to make sure everything is working like we think it is. We need to get his playing strength and stamina back. It's one thing to work out on your own, but he didn't have training camp, and so we're trying to simulate as much real football activity as we can for him."

"This guy is a hell of a back. This guy is a very good back," Gruden said. "We have film to prove that. We want him to be a big part of our organization. So if he's healthy, he's going to play here.

The Minnesota Vikings are the Buccaneers' next opponents. Tough against the run, Gruden may need all his backs at his disposal. Williams will be happy to oblige, should he get the call.

"I've put in a lot of work," said Williams. "I'm just excited. In these next few weeks we'll see what happens."

Improbable Overtime Victory Keeps Bucs In Play-Off Hunt

Oliver Ellis — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:41:42 -0500

In a game the Buccaneers needed to win, the dogfight that ensued was not what they had planned. Kansas City's crowd were raucous, it's players fired-up, and raced out into a 21-10 lead at half-time.

The 5-3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers gave the 1-6 Kansas City Chiefs just about every chance to get their second win of the season. Three fumbles, one interception, and a 21-point deficit. Possibly one of the craziest games of the season. Yet, in true NFL unpredictability, the Buccaneers came out on top with a 30-27 victory in overtime, thanks to a Matt Bryant field goal. It was the biggest comeback win in franchise history.

Rookie Clifton Smith, making only his second career NFL start, took a kick-off 97 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. It was only the second kick-off return of Buccaneer history, and the longest.

Quarterback Jeff Garcia had 339 yards of passing, with one touchdown, one interception, and also threw a two-point conversion to tight end Alex Smith, who caught his third score of the season courtesy of Earnest Graham's 3 yard pass.

Wide receiver Antonio Bryant continued with his fine return to football, with eight receptions for 115 yards and one TD grab, magnificently keeping his feet in bounds to put the Bucs within two points of the Chiefs lead, wth only 19 seconds of the 4th quarter remaining.

Even Michael Clayton got in on the act with four catches, the longest being a 29-yarder in overtime to put the Bucs in field goal range.

The Buccaneers defense was again mistake prone, with Sabby Piscatelli's illegal contact negating Philip Buchanon's interception. Buchanon was beaten by Mark Bradley on a 50-yard catch, and veteran Ronde Barber was fooled by the Wildcat offense as Chiefs quarterback Tyler Thigpen raced by him for a 37-yard touchdown catch.

The Bucs gave up their first rushing touchdown of the year to Kolby Smith, and fellow back Jamaal Charles had 106 yards on the ground.

Crucially, safety Tanard Jackson caused a Smith fumble within the Chiefs' 10 yard line, and recovered at the two-yard line. It was enough to swing the momentum of the game in the Bucs' favour, and despite Matt Bryant missing a field goal from 38 yards, Jeremy Trueblood's false start meant the Bucs would go again on third-and-ten, in which Jameel Cook made the necessary yards from a quick Garcia pass. Bryant did not miss a second time.

Garcia said, "You always talk about a letdown going into the bye week. Not to say that we didn't approach this game right, but Kansas City, I tip my hat off to them, how they came out and battled. They played good football for a majority of the game, but to come back and win this one, it's just going to be hopefully a huge momentum builder for ourselves. We have had a good first half of the season. Now we can heal up these next couple weeks, come back hungry and excited about what is to face in the second half of the season."

The 6-3 Buccaneers' season nearly slipped away from them. Tampa Bay had to win to stay in touch with division-leading Carolina, with their Monday Night Football clash on December 8th looking more and more decisive in the race for the play-offs.

Defensive end Kevin Carter said, "These kind of games give you strength, they give you confidence. Hopefully, we'll win enough games to look back and say, 'We got our momentum in Kansas City."

Pound the Rock: Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn

Oliver Ellis — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:06:37 -0400

Jon Gruden loves to pound the rock. By this, he means "run the football." It is something of a mantra in the Tampa Bay locker room.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 4-2, six weeks into the 2008 season. They are tied for first place in the NFC South.

A big reason for their early success is a tough defense that leads the league with 11 interceptions. But another reason is the Bucs' strong running attack that ranks sixth in the NFL.

This year, Tampa Bay feature two versatile backs in Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn.

Warrick Dunn has returned to Tampa after six years with the Atlanta Falcons, and is apparently the same player as when he left in 2002. Dunn is incredibly patient at the line of scrimmage, and has 386 yards from 75 carries, around 5.1 yards per attempt. He has one touchdown this season and it came against his former team, Atlanta. Against the Carolina Panthers, he gained 115 yards.

In the words of Gruden: "Warrick Dunn’s pretty good. He’s a heck of a football player. And Earnest Graham, he made my Pro Bowl yesterday as a back. He played fullback, halfback, played in space."

Until last season, Graham had been the third back on the depth chart, affectionately nicknamed "Mr. August," before injuries pushed him into starting action. His smash-mouth style and ferocious stiff-arm left him with just under 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns.

This season, Graham has 404 yards in 72 attempts, averaging 5.6 yards a carry. He has three touchdowns, one for 68 yards. He even stepped in as an emergency fullback against Carolina.

Tampa Bay have not been nationally televised at home since 2003. This Sunday, October 19th, the Buccaneers will face the Seattle Seahawks at Raymond James Stadium in the 1976-expansion-bowl, live on NBC (minus John Madden.)

The Seahawks are a perennial playoff contender in the NFC West, but injuries to Matt Hasselbeck and his receiving corps, coupled with the resurgent Arizona Cardinals, have made life difficult for the 'Hawks. Things are unlikely to get any easier on Sunday night.

Seattle's defense are giving up around 355 yards and 30 points per game, leaving them with a 1-4 record.

However, Coach Jon Gruden is not counting Seattle out. They have an excellent ground game of their own and 13 sacks.

"[Lofa] Tatupu and Julian Peterson are great players. [Marcus] Trufant is a top-shelf corner. They’ve got a very good defensive team. [Patrick] Kerney is still a force. I think he led the league in sacks a year ago. They’ve got a very good defense." Gruden said.

"Mike Holmgren is a tremendous coach. Their back is against the wall. We’ll get everything they have and they’ve been a real handful for us to deal with.”

A handful indeed. But, with stability at the quarterback position and the possible return of Joey Galloway, the Bucs have the talent to show the NFL exactly how good they are.

Pound the rock, Jon Gruden.

Jeff Garcia and Jon Gruden's Divorce Not Yet Finalised?

Oliver Ellis — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:26:15 -0400

Jeff Garcia once famously stated that Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden isn’t one to commit to a quarterback.

"He likes to date, but not to marry," Garcia said.

Since Opening Day in New Orleans, Jeff Garcia has been the estranged "ex." On Sunday, in the thin air of INVESCO Field in Denver, perhaps the two finally got back together.

When incumbent starter Brian Griese left the game after a hit by Bronco cornerback Champ Bailey, Gruden turned to the veteran who had taken his team to the playoffs last season with efficient, mistake-free football.

In a heartbeat, all seemed forgotten: the missed playing time and appearance bonus, the summer flirtation with Brett Favre, the lack of a new contract, the list of nagging injuries that hindered Garcia throughout training camp—all ancient history.

"Jon called me over and he just said, 'You need to get back to being you,'" Garcia said. "'Not worry about what has happened, not worrying about trying to score two touchdowns in one series, that's not going to happen. Let's just take one play at a time and be yourself. Scramble. Make things happen. Be the guy you've been in the past.'"

And with those magic words, Garcia was back. Some speculated he would never see another snap in a Buccaneer uniform. But Garcia responded with a 90-yard drive, completing nine passes, including a seven-yarder to Ike Hilliard for the Bucs' only touchdown.

"I want to compete. I want to give back," said Garcia. "Depending on what the situation is, I'll do everything I can do to make sure I'm prepared and ready to play next week."

He may well do just that. With the division-leading Carolina Panthers in town on Sunday, that NFC South matchup is looking like a must-win game. A healthy Garcia gives them a fighting chance.

“I had to see with my own eyes," Gruden said. "I wanted to see him throw the ball on time, crisp. I wanted to see his movement again. Now I'm seeing more and more of that. When Jeff does get healthy and he gets all the traits that Jeff Garcia has back, he's going to be fine."

Though the result wasn't in the Bucs' favour, Garcia believes he proved that Sunday, to his coach and to his teammates.

Maybe he has a future with the Bucs after all.

Galloway Out, Clayton to Start in Chicago

Oliver Ellis — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:32:16 -0400

This Sunday in Chicago, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Michael Clayton will get his chance. With incumbent starter Joey Galloway doubtful to play with a foot sprain he picked up against Atlanta, Clayton has been promoted to flanker, with Antonio Bryant moving to split end.

In an unlikely twist, Clayton will find himself in the huddle with a guy he had his main success with, quarterback Brian Griese. In 2004, Griese connected with Clayton for 80 passes for 1,193 yards and seven touchdowns. Since Griese left at the end of the 2005 season, Clayton has never regained his rookie form, with only 88 receptions in the last three seasons. His last touchdown was in 2006. However, Clayton is not looking at the negatives.

“ I've been told I will be starting, so we'll see what happens," Clayton said.
"This is one I've been waiting for. It's a tremendous opportunity. I feel real comfortable with Brian Griese being back there and what we can do as an offense." Clayton was the first player drafted by General Manager Bruce Allen, 15th overall in the 2004 draft.

This season he is in his contract year, has already hinted that he wants to play or will test the free agency market in the off-season. The Bucs, however, need to see the kind of production from Clayton that has been sorely lacking from the receivers this season. Ike Hilliard is 32 years old and is the Bucs leading receiver this year with 10 receptions for 86 yards and one score.

Sunday at Soldier Field may go a long way in determining not just Clayton's season, but also his future. "We've been through this for a while now," Coach Jon Gruden said. "Some guys are going to have to step up...Michael Clayton I'm sure will get an opportunity to slam down the door and re-arrive here. I think he's worked his butt off, and I'm looking forward to seeing him take advantage of this chance."

At 25, Clayton is a at pivotal point in his fifth year in the NFL. How pivotal will be up to him on Sunday against a Chicago Bears defense that currently ranks 6th against the pass and 10th in points allowed. But Clayton is ready. "I've been hungry, man. I've been hungry for five years.

Nothing has changed, my mentality hasn't changed. Opportunity has changed, and I'm looking forward to taking advantage of it."

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Offense 2008

Oliver Ellis — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:50:33 -0400

No team in the NFC South (since its 2002 inception) has gone back-to-back with division title wins. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach Jon Gruden has failed in 2002 (Super Bowl hangover, see Johnson, Keyshawn) and 2005 (see Shepherd, Edell). But, with a slew of veterans and leaders with a real mix of youth, could this be the year to break the "curse" of the NFC South?

OFFENSE

The team has its best offensive line since the Super Bowl year. So it should be, as it includes the most expensive centre in the league in Jeff Faine, adding some much needed aggression and awareness lacked by his predecessor, John Wade.

Arron Sears, 2007 second-round pick, was a revelation at left guard, whilst 2006's first-rounder Davin Joseph continued to be dominant in the run game, though not quite the finished article against the pass-rush.

On his right, Jeremy Trueblood, a 6'8" tackle from 2006's second-round continued to be as powerful and nasty as ever, though he was schooled by Michael Strahan in January.

However, such experiences will only make him a better player. Over on the other side, left tackle was surprisingly good with relative unknown Donald Penn, who got his chance after free agent Luke Petitgout went down for the season.

Penn looks good enough to start this season. Penn, Sears, Faine, Joseph and Trueblood are a youthful and strong outfit, both athletic and powerful. There is a certain degree of optimism about this group, particularly as it should only get better with age.

With another good year from the offensive line, Tampa's experienced stable of running backs should be successful once more.

The group includes Earnest Graham, who had just under 900 yards and 10 touchdowns last year; along with old Tampa favourite Warrick Dunn, now 33, but a shifty back with over 10,000 career yards and excellent hands; Michael Bennett, adding real speed as a change of pace back; full-back B.J Askew excelled as a blocker and pass-catching threat, and will only improve in 2008; not to mention the wild-card return of Carnell "Cadillac" Williams, a former No. 5 overall pick with a few records himself, could really spark the running game.

Williams is not expected to feature, and with Graham and Dunn to cover the rehab of his torn patella tendon, there is no rush for the one-time feature back to return.

Williams himself has said that he will return this year, and to expect him to be better than ever when he does, according to reports out of One Buc Place. A tough, versatile unit, the most consistent facet of the offense.

At tight end, things have changed a bit. Anthony Becht is gone. Alex Smith is still the starter, and has progressed nicely in his three seasons, with eight TD's and over 1,000 yards in his career. More is wanted from him, though he plays with intensity and effort.

Jerramy Stevens made some nice plays down the stretch last year, and he was resigned (despite the Seattle Times list of supposed felonies to his name despite the fact they are from quite some years ago).

There was some outrage at his resigning by some fans, but this will be a non-factor if he remains the target he was last year.

John Gilmore was signed from Chicago, primarily as a blocker. Ben Troupe has arrived from Tennessee, having played college ball in Florida, he is expected to compete as a pass-catching threat. A solid, if unspectacular group.

The most apparent "weakness" about this offense is the uncertainty surrounding the wide receiver position. The immortal Joey Galloway went over 1,000 yards for the third consecutive season last year, and is one of the less recognised offensive threats in the NFL, with top end speed and excellent hands.

The problem arises with this unit is that they have no receiver to complement Galloway, who is entrenched as the starter at flanker. If a situation where Galloway is injured arises (i.e.—versus the New York Giants in January, when they needed him most) there is no obvious player who carries the same threat for the Buccaneers.

Ike Hillard had something of a comeback season as the number two last year, but lacks deep-threat speed, or big-play ability, despite his veteran cunning and excellent consistency, for which he should be applauded.

Michael Clayton remains an enigma, having never reached the heights of his rookie 2004 campaign (1,193 yards, seven TDs) again, gaining over 1,000 more yards of the next three seasons.

Reports out of mini-camp suggest he is ready to reclaim the starter's role, no rid of turf toe and ankle problems which have plagued him, coupled with a loss of confidence when the ball was ever thrown to him. However, the team desperately wants the 2004 first-round pick to succeed, and it seems Jon Gruden is ready to give him a fair shot.

He will face competition from a man who is even more of a mystery, a certain Antonio Bryant, formerly of Dallas, Cleveland and San Francisco, having managed to fall out with each coach at some stage during his time there, and being suspended for all of last season.

However, he has shown deep-threat ability during his career, who could be something of a poor man's Terrell Owens in Tampa, using both strength and speed to succeed. Reports on him during mini-camp were also impressive.

Throw in special-teams tackling machine Maurice Stovall to the mix, who has size and hands but seems to lack the speed to find real separation against defensive backs, and don't rule out speed demon Dexter Jackson out of Appalachian State making a few appearances either, though more likely as a punt/kick-off returner.

With these five in Disney, there is a real red hot competition in training camp, the number two wide receiver spot being wide open. There is much room for improvement among this group from everyone minus Joey Galloway, this is something of a question area heading into the season. They may yet surprise us.

Sorry to have dragged on, as we now reach the last position on the tour—quarterback.

A position the Bucs have struggled to fill since Brad Johnson in 2002, Jon Gruden has gone through a number of quarterbacks. Bruce Gradkowski is gone. Lets move on.

Brian Griese, the man Johnson was benched for, has returned after his 2005, 5-1 start, going down with a cruciate ligament injury against the Miami Dolphins. Interestingly, the man Griese was cut for to be hailed the future of the franchise, Chris Simms, is still here too.

He was lucky to be given a new contract after 2006 (bleeding internally and losing his spleen against the Panthers, going 0-3 as a starter) he has publicly claimed his relationship with Gruden as beyond repair.

Though the offensive line wasn't exactly the best that season (the Bucs went 4-12) neither was the defense, so the bad start wasn't entirely his fault. However, he threw seven interceptions in three games, so he is on his way out of Tampa.

How and when are a mystery, as the Bucs turned down some trade offers, yet are refusing to cut him. His status is unknown, though he will be at camp. He should be gone by opening day.

The new guy for the future is the "other" McCown, Luke.

He made a cameo appearance last season, starting three games, finishing with a 91.7 passer rating, and rushing 117 yards. He threw five TDs, including a crucial last-gasp one against New Orleans; but was also picked off three times, losing two fumbles and was sacked 15 times in the process.

Clearly, his decision-making needs to improve, but he has the tools (and the arm) to start in the future. Hopefully, that's not too far away.

Josh Johnson is a rookie out of division 1-AA, but he is mobile, accurate and understands the West Coast Offense. He has excellent stats, but he will not feature this year as he learns the system.

Entrenched at starter is number seven, Jeff Garcia, who threw 13 TDs and only four picks with a 94.6 passer rating in 2007. He was a Pro Bowl alternate in Hawaii, throwing scores to old nemesis Terrell Owens.

Garcia gave the kind of knowledge, leadership and ability that the Buccaneers have sorely lacked at the quarterback position for sometime. His veteran cunning, coupled with his quick feet and sound vision, led to a real command of Gruden's offense which should only improve after his full year in the system.

The strike against Garcia is his age (38) and his ability to remain injury free, taking 19 sacks last year. In addition to this, Garcia has something of a contract gripe, a year into his relatively small deal.

However, Garcia lacks leverage due to the problems already mentioned. He will not hold out of camp, so barring injury, Garcia will be the man under centre come September. A deep group (expect four signal-callers on the roster) with a Pro Bowler at the helm, this is a good unit for the Buccaneers.

If Garcia goes down, the Bucs aren't the same threat offensively (Griese is game-manager, whilst McCown is somewhat mistake-prone) so there are reports linking Brett Favre to Tampa Bay.

Should he arrive, the Bucs offense would be more widely respected in the league, but flying under the radar is how Jon Gruden will like his 2008 offense.

More "explosiveness" is needed to become a true playoff contender, but there are players capable of such a step, which is a must if the Bucs are to hold off the challenge of the New Orleans Saints.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Summer of Discontent?

Oliver Ellis — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:57:59 -0400

As Rio Ferdinand put earlier this week, Manchester United's summer of triumph, post domestic and European success, things haven't been quite so... triumphant.

OK, its not been a disaster—there has been no mass exodus a la Arsenal or major pre-season injuries (fingers crossed). But a certain Cristiano Ronaldo has drawn something of a cloud of uncertainty over his future with his continued flirtation with his "dream" club, Spanish champions Real Madrid.

Much has been made of these somewhat ambiguous comments by United's number seven, who hit 42 goals in all competitions last season. It is my guess that Sir Alex has persuaded Ronaldo to stay for one final season at United, before the lures of the sunshine and the Bernabeu prove to much for him, as well as the £50M+ reportedly offered by Real does to United.

In short—every player has a price. If Ronaldo prefers the glitz and glamour of galactico status in Spain, then that is entirely up to him. The slight snag in Ramon Calderon's dastardly plan is that he is under contract until 2011; but as our good friend Mr Blatter, president of world governing body FIFA concluded, a player being forced to remain under contract is tantamount to "slavery".

Funny old game, football.

Ferguson has said that his football will suffer, and I am inclined to agree. His trickery and flamboyance will be more than appreciated in Madrid, but the asset on which his game is based—running at players—will be somewhat compromised in the slower, more technical La Ligá.

It is generally accepted that the Premier League is the fastest league in the world, including the tackles flying in—something Cristiano will not miss over in Espáná.

I for one would be delighted if he announced he will fulfil his contract. But if he should hand in a transfer request—adios, I say.

And for 60million euros, I'd hope David Gill and Sir Alex will say the same thing.