Tampa Bay Buccaneers Endure First Loss: Growing Pains or Just Plain Ouch

A young team needs time to grow, but the recent and stinging Pittsburgh loss may or may not inhibit progress. Coach Raheem Morris commented about team status on www.Buccaneers.com:

“Obviously, that was a disappointing game,” Morris said. “We have to build on this during the bye; we are 2-1. There are a lot of things positive from beginning of the season to now, and a lot of things we need to work on.”

Linebacker Barret Ruud (No. 51) summed up the loss and the meaning of their bye week:

“We saw what we did wrong,” Ruud said. “It wasn't like they were overwhelming us. It would be nice to play right away because you don't want to deal with this loss for two weeks, but at the same time there's a lot of things we'll be able to work on over this week and a half."

So, it seems the team is not concentrating on the “ouch” of the lop-sided recent loss. It’s back to work.

Wide receiver Arrelious “Rejus” Benn (No. 17) is set to start at flanker where duties include blocking. At 6'2" and 220 pounds, Benn is expected to improve the running game with his blocking ability as he can take on big cornerbacks. His size is an asset to the passing game, too.

“I know my ability and I believe in my ability, and what I displayed is what I can do,” Benn said. “It's all about me knowing what I'm doing, so I can do it full speed and just go out there and do it with ease."

Quarterback Josh Freeman (No. 5) is positive about Benn.

"I've got a lot of work in with Rejus the last few weeks," said Freeman. "I have a lot of confidence in Rejus. I'm excited to see his progression and see him get more in the mix.”

Benn may not be the only rookie with an increased role. Running back LeGarrette Blount (No. 27) is getting more practice reps to see if he can step up the running game. At 247 pounds, he averaged 4.5 yards per carry against the Steelers and scored the only Buccaneers’ touchdown.

Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy (No. 91) continues to provide push for the defense and has proven to be adaptable too with the 4-3 front and changes to a 3-4 setup also. Coach Morris is confident about McCoy.

“Our defense needs him to move around and be productive, be smart, be sharp and be wise beyond his years,” Morris said. “And he has been.”

The Buccaneers face a tough opponent in the Bengals at Cincinnati on October 10. 

“The bye week, is about us," Morris said. "It's us getting together and doing what we need to do.”

If the young team has grown during the bye week, then the next game could be a significant measure of maturity.

Photo credit: Dwight Drum @ Racetake.com