Monday Morning QB - 12/19

As stated in an earlier posting, the Bucs got crushed by the Patriots Saturday, 28-0. The young offense showed its inexperienced as they could get nothing going on the ground or in the air. The only good thing that came out of this was that the Cowboys, Falcons and Vikings all lost, which help the Bucs playoff chances.

My prediction: Bucs 17, Patriots 10

Score: Patriots 28, Bucs 0

Offense: D. No running game. No passing game. Seven sacks. No touchdowns. No field goals.

Defense: C. The D Line was dominated by the Pats offense. Bad penalties. 28 points scored against.

Special Teams: C. No points. Punting was okay.

Coaching: D. Bucs got out coached today on both sides of the ball. Bucs looked like a southern team unable to adapt to the cold.

Outstanding Players: None.

Things That Drove Me Nuts: Roughing the kicker penalty on Ryan Nece that led to a 14-0 lead against the Bucs. Early in the game, it was all about field position. The Bucs had held the Pats and were only one score away from tying it up. A roughing the kicker penalty extended the drive. Later, a facemask penalty gave the Pats another 15 yards. A couple of plays later, the Pats score. The game was never in reach again.

Bucs Record: 9-5.

Next Opponent: The Bucs finish out the season against divisional foes at home. Next week they play the Falcons, who lost to the Bears. The Bucs control their destiny and if they win out, should make the playoffs.