Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Final Preseason Game Not Final for Some

The last 2010 preseason game for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is history and the game on the road in Houston, Texas, produced the desired result: a second preseason win. The 24-7 victory had many good Buccaneer moments.

The defense scored and held when it counted. The offense, lead by efficient backup quarterback Rudy Carpenter, produced touchdowns and scored more than their preseason average.

Safety Corey Lynch’s two interceptions with long returns and aggressive play established momentum and maybe even a spot for him on the roster.

Running back Kareem Huggins played early and continued to chug away with yardage.

Wide receiver Arrelious Benn (a/k/a A.B.) connected for two outstanding catches for touchdowns and may have begun to justify his high-draft price.

All said, a second victory might breathe a needed dose of confidence and hope for players and fans.

But, the “W” doesn’t count, the opponent played its third string, and many who played Thursday night will be turning in their playbooks. 

A bright spot: Local consensus seems to be that if the defense is more effective this year, the Bucs will get more wins. 

If the draft picks fill the gaps and young players produce, then an improved record is likely.

Should Freeman get a hot hand—one that’s not throbbing—and the receiver corps compete at leaps and bounds over last year, scoring might get contagious.

Should the defense gel and swarm to play like past Buccaneer defenses, accumulating leads would be protected.

Many expect little from the young team, but others feel they may have the ingredients for a successful season. With every game, the experience factor might have a big effect on results.

Only one thing is certain, the next “hike” heard from under a pewter and red helmet at Raymond James Stadium will count for points. 

It’s a stretch to hope for the playoffs, but this Buccaneers team has talent. Those selected will go through a development process for the next four quarters times 16.

For a few players on the bubble, this final preseason game of 2010 won’t be their final NFL game. And although some of the many cut may find opportunities with other NFL teams, here in Tampa and around the league, many will have had their one big chance to break into the NFL.

The final cut day is always sad for many. NFL rosters must be reduced to 53.

The NFL has always been known as “Not For Long," and the cutting and trading have been an essential part of playing the game, a constant must-do for every coaching staff.

The decisions made are never easy, just essential. Sixteen games will tell if those decisions were effective.

For a few, that last cut is all about NFL survival. The final game that didn’t count saved them. 

Photo credit: Dwight Drum @ Racetake.com