Vying Bucs: Will It Be Freeman, Leftwich, or McCown?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face a tough start to the 2009-10 season with the question still looming, who will lead us?

Leading their division in late November last season, Bucs fans were hoping the momentum would continue.  Unfortunately, with a four game losing streak, hopes faded fast.  They finished 3rd in their division.  Bucs fans are hoping with the changes to the roster and coaching staff, they can come out on top this year.

After cleaning house with the coaching staff, new head coach Raheem Morris has some big decisions to make.  Will it be emerging rookie, 1st round draft pick Josh Freeman, Kansas State, former Jacksonville quarterback and most recently back-up to "Big Ben", Byron Leftwich, or Luke McCown, who had appearances in the Bucs 2007 season?

At this point it's anybody's game, but my money is on Leftwich.

The left side

Starting out his rookie season with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2003, Leftwich showed some promise.  After a fluke, Jacksonville dropped to pick 7th and landed Leftwich.  In 2005 he had blossomed, obtaining a 89.3 passer rating, 9th best in the NFL.

So, what's happened since?

Bouncing from Atlanta to Pittsburgh in the past years Leftwich earned a Superbowl ring as back-up to Ben Roethlisberger, current QB.  Only playing in five games, he performed well completing 21 of 36 attempts for 303 yards, two touchdowns.

The most experience of the three, Leftwich is my choice.  Even though he might not be the franchise QB the Bucs are looking for, he is consistent.

Consistency wins games not favorites.  QB's lead teams and with the shifts on the roster we can finally look to someone reliable since Garica is finally gone.

Fan favorite

After a disappointing season the Bucs could switch gears and go for rookie Freeman.

He is sure to make an impact on the roster, just how much?

Freeman had 34 TD's in 2008 and many KSU fans think he was held back by a poor coaching staff.  If that is the case, Freeman could blow everyone away at training camp and that is the obvious reason why he is the Bucs franchise QB.

Coming out as strong as last season may not pan out.  If that is the case, the fans will, with out a doubt push for Freeman. 

He seemed to of stayed low on the radar at Kansas State.  Not making that many waves and being just above average.  This doesn't always make a starter.  Plus, being a rookie, it is clear from mini-camp that the team is divided between Leftwich and McCown, not leaving much room for Freeman.

Our Incumbent

As most Bucs fans did, I scratched my head when Freeman was picked up in the first round.

As we all knew, McCown was not franchise quarterback material but, as a whole-hearted rooter for the underdogs I thought he would of been given a chance.

McCown produced some fine numbers as back-up to Jeff Garcia, former Bucs QB.  An impressive performance in 2007 against the New Orleans Saints, McCown threw for a 313 yards and two touchdowns.

It is expected that McCown will come with his A-game at training camp and fight for the position.

What's Next?

One of the finest quarterback battles will ensue.

There is no doubt about that.

Possibly the finest in NFL history, at least since Kyle Orton and Rex Grossman fought for the top spot in Chicago.

I think McCown will give seven-year vet, Leftwich, a run for his money, but Leftwich will come out on top.