3-13 - 2009
On paper the Bucs are not necessarily eye-popping, but they do look to be improving. Not since the Warren Sapp days have they had much luck at DT but by drafting Gerald McCoy and Brian Price they got two guys who could make an impact right away. Both have quick feet, while McCoy is an complete DT (pass rushing and run stopping) Price is more the run stopper but both can pay quick dividends on a young defense. With Ronde Barber still manning one corner spot, last season Aqib Talib showed he has the speed and ball-hawking skills to make alot of plays in the NFL. Look for continued from this entire unit, anchored in the middle by 7th year pro Barret Rudd.
On the other side of the ball, Josh Freeman comes into the season as the starter and will hope for some improvement in his 3rd season. The offensive line is a huge question mark, with Jeremy Trueblood being the only real established vet. However, the have added a great WR in Arreilous Benn and have some other young talent to go around. Kellen Winslow, when healthy, is a great tight end and will likely see some more room with Benn running around the secondary. The running back situation is puzzling for the Bucs. They have 3 underachieving backs in Earnest Graham, Cadillac Williams, and Derrick Ward. None of which had impressive seasons and all should have a chance to show why they deserve more carries.
The one bright spot for the Bucs is their schedule. Many of the games they have seem to be winnable but as with most teams the games could hinge on the QB play. If Freeman steps up and takes some big strides I a big improvement record-wise out of this team. There should be some major improvements on last year's debacle of a season.
-Prediction: 7-9 (maybe a little high but easy schedule so I was generous; also contingent on Freeman)
Boom.
ReplyDeleteI think they're defense will be better than mediocre. The two new DTs should lead to better protection for the LBs and less time for the opposing quarterback to pick apart the secondary. Yes Barber had no picks but he can still cover. They had no D-Line last year and that hurt him. Myron Lewis can be a nice nickel corner for them as well.
ReplyDeleteThe offense will make or break the Buc's season. Maybe 7 wins was too high but i don't think 5 or 6 is out of the question. They need one of those running backs to show up bad.
I thought I'd add, so it doesn't seem like Mazzetti isn't just talking to his imaginary friend. While I do agree that the Bucs schedule is weak, I cannot see them winning 7 games. I'd be really suprised if they won 5 or 6. So, I'd go with a prediction of 4-12, but not much more then that.
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