Monday Morning QB - 10/31

Happy Halloween!

And what a horror show the Bucs displayed yesterday against the awful 49ers. For the second time this season the Bucs played below lowly competition (see Jets game) and lost a sure win. The game was ugly and boring and ugly. It was the last game before we moved into the meat of our schedule and we blew a perfect opportunity to retain the overall lead in the NFC.

My prediction: Bucs 24, Niners 9

Score: Niners 15, Bucs 10

Offense: F. No running game. No passing game. No nothing.

Defense: F. A long run at the end of the half to allow a leading field goal. Allowing a fourth string QB to drive in the final half of the fourth quarter to basically put the game away. Sad, sad, sad.

Special Teams: C. Punting was average. We were 1 for 2 on field goals.

Coaching: C. This team was not ready to play. They had two weeks off and they looked uninspired. A pathetic display.

Outstanding Players: None.

Things That Drove Me Nuts: Everything.

Bucs Record: 5-2.

Next Opponent: Next week we begin the heart of our conference schedule. Before the Niner game, the Bucs needed to go 5-5 to end the season 10 and six, which would probably mean a playoff spot. We lost a very winnable game. Now, we have to face real opponents with better offenses and defenses.

I was one of the people screaming for Griese's removal and I guess I got my wish. That request, however, was with the expectation that the running game would not evaporate. I'll give Simms three games to show dramatic improvement. He sure set the bar low enough that he can only get better. After three years in the Gruden system, he should be much more adept than he's shown. It's his career to make or lose.

This season could get ugly quick.