The Bucs and Redskins have met ten times in the preseason and all but one of those encounters was in Tampa. The series is tied, 5-5, and the two teams split their last two matchups. In 1999, the Bucs secured a 16-13 win at then-Redskins Stadium to cap their first unbeaten preseason in 16 years. The first preseason contest between the two teams was on August 4, 1979, a 9-7 Redskins win. Tampa Bay exacted some revenge a year later with an 11-6 home triumph. The Bucs also picked up wins in 1982 and 1987. Tampa Bay has met the Redskins in the preseason in six of their ten playoff seasons.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Thursday, September 1, 2011
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
Site: FedExField (85,000)
2010 Records: Tampa Bay 10-6, Washington 6-10
Buccaneers Television: WTSP-TV
Play-By-Play: Chris Myers, Color: John Lynch, Sideline: Dave Wirth
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Up Next: Tampa Bay vs. Detroit (9/11), Washington vs. N.Y. Giants (9/11)

2011 PRESEASON LEADERS
Passing Yards: 272, QB Josh Johnson
Passing Touchdowns: 1, QB Rudy Carpenter, QB Josh Johnson
Rushing Yards: 93, QB Josh Johnson
Receiving Yards: 67, WR Dezmon Briscoe
Receptions: 6, WR Mike Williams
Tackles: 17, LB Quincy Black
Sacks: 3.0, DE George Johnson

UPCOMING NFL DATES
Roster cutdown to maximum of 53 players September 3
Clubs may establish practice squad of eight players September 4

AROUND THE CORNER
After missing his entire rookie season in 2009 due to a shoulder injury, CB E.J. Biggers boasted one of the strongest success rates by NFL cornerbacks in 2010 based on a unique statistic calculated by Football Outsiders.

The Cornerback Success Rate statistic, as defined by the Football Outsiders, is “the percentage of passes that don’t manage to get at least 45 percent of needed yards on first down, 60 percent of needed yards on second down, or 100 percent of needed yards on third down.”

Among all cornerbacks with at least 40 charted pass attempts their way, Biggers ranked seventh in the league with a 63% Success Rate, seven percent behind top-ranked Darrelle Revis of the New York Jets. Biggers defended 65 charted targets in 2010 and limited his targets to only 5.7 yards per pass, the 12th lowest in the league. Buccaneer teammate CB Ronde Barber also faired strongly in the yards per pass category, holding his targets to the NFL’s eighth-lowest rate of 5.5 yards per pass.

Biggers’ targets averaged 2.9 yards after contact on an average pass distance of 13.3 yards. The seventh-round selection out of Western Michigan played in all 16 games for the Buccaneers last year, starting in six, as he recorded 53 tackles and collected his first career interception in his first career start.

INJURY REPORT
Official Injury Report begins with regular season games

ENEMY COACHES
Redskins Head Coach: Mike Shanahan
Redskins Offensive Coordinator: Kyle Shanahan
Redskins Defensive Coordinator: Jim Haslett
Redskins Special Teams Coach: Danny Smith

STATISTICAL RANKINGS: (2011 Pre-Season)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 15th (321 ypg)
Rushing: 23rd (100.7 ypg)
Passing: 13th (220.3 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: na (6)
Points Scored: 17th (18.7 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 3rd (255.7 ypg)
Rushing: 13th (102.7 ypg)
Passing: 2nd (153 ypg)
Sacks: na (13)
Points Allowed: 6th (14.7 ppg)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS OFFENSE
Overall: 4th (402.7 ypg)
Rushing: 1st (152.7 ypg)
Passing: 8th (250 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: na (6)
Points Scored: 13th (21 ppg)
WASHINGTON REDSKINS DEFENSE
Overall: 4th (262.7 ypg)
Rushing: 6th (92 ypg)
Passing: 5th (170.7 ypg)
Sacks: na (10)
Points Allowed: 6th (14.7 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

BUCCANEERS 17
REDSKINS 23

THE GOOD
Josh Johnson exists somewhere in that gray area between first and second string.  He struggled as a starter in 2009—throwing to Michael Clayton and a gimpy Antonio Bryant—and didn’t do much to dissuade Josh Freeman’s ascendancy, but in the preseason, he’s been an athletic, reckless, yardage-eating dynamo.  The Chiefs didn’t have an answer; Johnson passed for 108 yards—more than all three of Kansas City’s quarterbacks combined—and his 57 yards on the ground led all players in rushing.

Josh Johnson (The Associated Press)

He took some unnecessary sacks and was quick to run with the football, but Johnson’s throws were tight and on target.  He didn’t force any passes.  He moved well in the pocket, converted two first downs with his ridiculous speed—and almost a third, scrambling for 17 yards on third and 18—showcased his unbelievable release and quick feet, and left the Chiefs defense a befuddled mess.

He’s auditioning for a starting job in 2012, and if he keeps it up, he’ll get his chance.  Because once Johnson relieved Freeman midway through the second quarter, he became the best player on the field.  And it wasn’t close.

OTHER STANDOUTS: Dezmon Briscoe, Kregg Lumpkin, Anthony Gaitor, Mason Foster, Daniel Hardy, Dekoda Watson, Kyle Moore, Michael Bennett, Michael Koenen, Robert Malone, etc, etc, etc… lots of standouts in a 25-0 victory.

THE BAD
I’m reluctant to call a rookie “bad” in the first preseason game following an abbreviated offseason, especially with Demar Dotson and James Lee’s struggles as the game wore on.  But I kept my eye on Adrian Clayborn for most of the night—not that I had a choice; you can spot the man’s dreadlocks from the nosebleeds—and I saw him play with strength and intensity and fire, but also reluctance.  He made two outstanding tackles in the backfield and applied decent pressure to Kansas City’s quarterbacks, but he looked lost out there on several drives.

On Thomas Jones’s 17-yard scamper in the first quarter, Clayborn beat Leonard Pope with a swim move and broke into the backfield, but hesitated as Jones burst through a gap in the line and into the secondary.  Who knows what his assignment was on the play, but I was hoping to see Clayborn squeeze down the back of the offensive line and meet Jones at the hole before he broke through.  His split-second indecision is the difference between 17 yards and a play for no gain.

And later that drive, tight end Jake O’Connell got under Clayborn’s pads and drove him four yards off the line of scrimmage.  Running back Jackie Battle ran through the vacated gap for a gain of five yards—or what would have been a gain of five, if he hadn’t coughed up the football.

I’m picking on Clayborn.  He did a lot of good last night.  I didn’t expect to see Reggie White in game one, and his effort, though sometimes sloppy, was far from “bad.” I’m highlighting some of the negative here—creating a frame of reference—in hoping that he shakes off the cobwebs quickly and becomes the defensive end we need: that angry, violent presence that we’ve been hearing about in camp.  The signs are there; let’s see how he progresses.

OTHER OFF-DAYS: James Lee, Brandon Carter, Demar Dotson.

THE UGLY
With his oustanding performance, Kregg Lumpkin assumed pole position as the Buccaneers’ third down back.  And after the game Allen Bradford had last night, Lumpkin might also be the leading man to back up LeGarrette Blount.

As I said above, it’s wholly cruel and unfair to judge a rookie—coming off a work stoppage—in his first NFL action, but I was under the impression that Bradford was a power back with a bit of breakaway speed.

And he might be fast, who knows?  He definitely didn’t get a chance to showcase his open field moves in Kansas City, running for only 10 yards on eight carries.  Five of his carries went for less than three yards, and his best run of the night—a five-yard dive into the right side of the offensive line—was negated on the following play by a Demar Dotson false start.

Bradford looked tired.  Uninspired.  Disinterested.  Hesitant.  He looked like he was running in mud, and with the spark Lumpkin created last night—and Earnest Graham waiting in the wings—Bradford’s far from a lock to make the team.

DISHONORABLE MENTION: Devin Holland, big hits are awesome.  But big hits on defenseless players won’t make you many friends and definitely won’t find you a spot on the roster.  I’m sure it was an accident—an error that surfaced amidst the chaos of NFL football—but fans are quick to label players in this league; don’t make too many more of those mistakes.

The Buccaneers have won four of the last six meetings, including five of the last seven road contests in the series. New Orleans leads the all-time series 21-15 while the teams are tied at 8-8 as NFC South rivals. The teams split the series last year, with New Orleans winning in Tampa in Week 11 and the Buccaneers prevailing at the Superdome in Week 16. The Buccaneers swept both contests in 2005 and 2007 after splitting in 2008, including a 10-3 victory in 2005 in a road contest played in Baton Rouge and a 27-13 in the 2005 regular season home finale, a victory that clinched the NFC South title for the Buccaneers. Prior to joining the NFC South, Tampa Bay had claimed three of the previous four meetings, including wins in both 1999 and 2001. The Bucs won the first game between the two clubs, a 33-14 triumph at the Superdome in 1977. Tampa Bay tied an NFL record, which has since been broken, by returning three interceptions for touchdowns. The victory marked the Bucs’ first regular season win after 26 consecutive losses. More than 8,000 fans greeted the team upon its return to One Buccaneer Place. Tampa Bay and New Orleans split the next four meetings, each winning two straight on the other team’s turf before the Saints assembled a six-game winning streak.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, October 17, 2010
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,890)
2010 Records: Tampa Bay 3-1, New Orleans 3-2
Network Television: FOX
Play-by-Play: Sam Rosen, Analyst: Tim Ryan
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay defeated Cincinnati 24-21; New Orleans lost at Arizona 30-20

Head-To-Head
New Orleans leads series 21-15 (Regular Season)

SERIES BY THE NUMBERS
Overall Regular Season Series:…………..New Orleans leads series, 21-15
Home Record vs. New Orleans Saints:…………………………………….6-9
Road Record vs. New Orleans Saints:……………………………………9-12
Current Streak:…………………………………. Buccaneers, one game (2009)
Buccaneers Longest Streak:…………Two games, five times (last in 2007)
Saints Longest Streak:……………………………………Six games (1983-88)
Regular Season Point Total:…………………..Buccaneers 660 – Saints 723
Most Points, Buccaneers:…………………….. 48, Buccaneers 48-21 (2001)
Most Points, Saints:……………………………………44, Saints 44-34 (1987)
Most Points, both teams:…………………………….78, Saints 44-34 (1987)
Fewest Points, Buccaneers:…………………………….. 3, Saints 9-3 (1998)
Fewest Points, Saints:……………………………. 3, Buccaneers 10-3 (2005)
Fewest Points, both teams:…………………………… 12, Saints 9-3 (1998)

What to Watch
Bucs O-Line vs Greg Williams heavy blitz scheme
The Bucs allowed three sacks last week against the blitz happy Bengals, but will face an even stiffer test against the Saints, who love to blitz under the guidance of defensive coordinator Greg Williams. With Freeman still adjusting to calling all the protections and the injury to center Jeff Faine, this unit will have its hands full as they attempt to stonewall the Saints defenders and give Freeman time to throw.  Faine’s replacement Jeremy Zuttah will have his hands full with the emergence of third year veteran defensive tackle Sedrick Eliis who leads the Saints in sacks with 3.

Josh Freeman vs Saints Secondary
Freeman ranks fourth in the NFC (eighth in the NFL) with a third down passer rating of 100.2 and sixth in the NFC with a fourth quarter passer rating of 84.2 through 4 games. He has yet to throw an interception on a third down play. His legs have been just as productive on third downs, as six of Freeman’s 15 runs this year have come on third down, with five of them resulting in first downs. Four of those six scrambles have come on third-and-nine or longer. In just four games, Freeman has already converted two third-and-11s, two third-and-fours and a third-and-nine by running. Through the first 12 starts in his career, Freeman has a 6-8 record including a 5-2 record over his last seven starts and four consecutive road wins. Of his six career victories, four have been fourth quarter comeback wins.

Bucs Secondary vs Drew Brees
This is strength vs strength for both teams. Drew Brees enters the game with a 95.7 quarterback rating and is completing 71.4% of his pass attempts in 2010 with 9 touchdown passes and 1,410 yards and 282-yards per game.  The Bucs secondary has intercepted 8 passes and has held opposing quarterbacks to a 65.1 quarterback rating.

INJURY REPORT
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Out
RB Reggie Bush (fibula)
CB Randall Gay (head)
CB Tracy Porter (knee)
RB Pierre Thomas (ankle)
Questionable
DE Will Smith (groin)
Probable
QB Drew Brees (knee)
WR Marques Colston (rib)
LB Scott Shanle (hamstring)
S Roman Harper (hamstring)
T Jon Stinchcomb (shoulder)
S Usama Young (quadriceps)
T Zach Strief (knee)
DE Jimmy Wilkerson (knee)
LB Stanley Arnoux (ankle)
LB Anthony Waters (hamstring)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Out
C Jeff Faine (quadricep)
Questionable
CB Elbert Mack (foot)
DE Kyle Moore (shoulder)
WR Mike Williams (foot)
Probable
FB Earnest Graham (hamstring)
S Sean Jones (back)
LB Niko Koutouvides (ankle)
TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

ENEMY COACHES
Saints Head Coach: Sean Payton
Saints Offensive Coordinator: Pete Carmichael Jr.
Saints Defensive Coordinator: Greg Williams
Saints Special Teams Coach: Greg McMahon

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS OFFENSE
Overall: 10th (346.8 ypg)
Rushing: 31st (75.6 ypg)
Passing: 5th (271.2 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 9th (8)
Points Scored: 18th (19.8 ppg)
NEW ORLEANS SIANTS DEFENSE
Overall: 9th (306.4 ypg)
Rushing: 22nd (118.8 ypg)
Passing: 7th (187.6 ypg)
Sacks: 13th (10)
Points Allowed: 17th (20.4 ppg)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 21st (313.8 ypg)
Rushing: 18th (103.5 ypg)
Passing: 19th (210.3 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 16th (10)
Points Scored: 21st (18.5 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 18th (340.8 ypg)
Rushing: 30th (143.3 ypg)
Passing: 9th (197.5 ypg)
Sacks: 32nd (4)
Points Allowed: 15th (20.0 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

SAINTS 20
BUCS 19

The Buccaneers lead the all-time series 6-3, including victories in five con­secutive contests. Tampa Bay won the previous meeting at Raymond James Stadium in 2006, 14-13. This week’s game marks the seventh of 10 meet­ings played in Cincinnati. The two teams first met in 1976 in Cincinnati during the Buccaneers’ inaugural season, with the Bengals posting a 21-0 victory. The Bucs won for the first time in the series in 1980 with a 17-12 road win at Cincinnati. Cincinnati captured the next two meetings, 23-17 in Tampa in 1983 and 56-23 at home in 1989. Tampa Bay’s current five-game winning streak has included a 19-16 win at home in 1995, a 35-0 victory at Cincinnati in 1998 and a 16-13 overtime win at Paul Brown Stadium in 2001. Tampa Bay’s victory in 1998 was the club’s first-ever shutout on the road and its largest margin of victory away from home. In 2002, the Buccaneers won again on the road, prevailing 35-7, followed by a thrilling 14-13 win at home in 2006.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, October 10, 2010
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Paul Brown Stadium (65,515)
2010 Records: Tampa Bay 2-1, Cincinnati 2-2
Network Television: FOX
Play-by-Play: Thom Brennaman, Analyst: Brian Billick
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay lost to Pittsburgh 38-13; Cincinnati lost at Cleveland 23-20

Head-To-Head
Tampa leads series 6-3 (Regular Season)

SERIES BY THE NUMBERS
Overall Regular Season Series:………………. Tampa Bay leads series, 6-3
Home Record vs. Cincinnati Bengals……………………………………….2-1
Road Record vs. Cincinnati Bengals:……………………………………….4-2
Current Streak:…………………………. Buccaneers, five games (1995-2006)
Buccaneers Longest Streak:………………………. Five games (1995-2006)
Bengals Longest Streak:………………………………..Two games (1983-89)
Regular Season Point Total:…………………Buccaneers 176 – Bengals 161
Most Points, Buccaneers:………….. 35, twice, last Buccaneers 35-7(2002)
Most Points, Bengals:……………………………… 56, Bengals 56-23 (1989)
Most Points, both teams:…………………………. 79, Bengals 56-23 (1989)
Fewest Points, Buccaneers:…………………………. 0, Bengals 21-0 (1976)
Fewest Points, Bengals:………………………….. 0, Buccaneers 35-0 (1998)
Fewest Points, both teams:……………………….. 21, Bengals 21-0 (1976)

What to Watch
Brian Price & Gerald McCoy vs Bengals Interior Offensive Lineman
With much of the talk centered around McCoy playing exclusively at under tackle after being moved around a lot to start his NFL career and Price’s playing time being increased. Its time for the youngsters to show just why the Bucs picked them in the first two rounds. While both player shave flashed pass rush ability and have come close neither has a gotten a sack through their first three games.

Barrett Ruud vs Cedric Benson
After a lackluster showing against the Steelers ground attack, Ruud needs a statement game, in a big way. He has been openly criticized for his inability to shed blockers, fight his way through trash and meet opposing running backs in the hole with any kind of force. Ruud who  is supposedly the unquestioned leader and general of a young defense, seemingly is more willing to just call the plays with a subdued attitude as a non-vocal emotionless leader.

Bucs Secondary vs Bengals Receivers
The Bucs duo of Aqib Talib and Ronde Barber have the task of keeping the Bengals Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco, who have averaged a combined  11.75 receptions and 167.5 yards per game, in check. If Talib and Barber manage to hold Owens and Ochocinco in check the game will be a lot closer then many are predicting.

INJURY REPORT
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Probable
LB Niko Koutouvides (ankle)
WR Maurice Stovall (back)
TE Kellen Winslow (knee)
LB Adam Hayward (illness)
DE Kyle Moore (shoulder)

CINCINNATI BENGALS
Out
DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring)
WR Jordan Shipley (concussion)
Doubtful
S Roy Williams (knee)
Probable
WR Chad Ochocinco (groin)
LB Dhani Jones (hamstring)
CB Johnathan Joseph (forearm)
RB Bernard Scott (hamstring)
DT Pat Sims (knee)

ENEMY COACHES
Bengals Head Coach: Marvin Lewis
Bengals Offensive Coordinator: Bob Bratkowski
Bengals Defensive Coordinator: Mike Zimmer
Bengals Special Teams Coach: Darrin Simmons

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 26th (288.0 ypg)
Rushing: 20th (96.3 ypg)
Passing: 23rd (191.7 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 11th (7)
Points Scored: 25th (16.7 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 20th (335.0 ypg)
Rushing: 17th (141.3 ypg)
Passing: 10th (193.7 ypg)
Sacks: 26th (4)
Points Allowed: 17th (19.7 ppg)

CINCINNATI BENGALS  OFFENSE
Overall: 10th (349.8 ypg)
Rushing: 23rd (92.0 ypg)
Passing: 6th (257.8 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 11th (7)
Points Scored: 14th (19.8 ppg)
CINCINNATI BENGALS DEFENSE
Overall: 6th (299.3 ypg)
Rushing: 15th (107.5 ypg)
Passing: 9th (191.8 ypg)
Sacks: 32nd (3)
Points Allowed: 16th (19.5 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

BUCS 23
BENGALS 20

The Pittsburgh leads the all-time series 7-1, including wins in the last three meetings. Pittsburgh defeated the Buccaneers 20-3 at Heinz Field in 2006 and also prevailed 17-7 in 2002 on Monday Night Football in Tampa. In 2001, the Steelers won 17-10 in Tampa. Tampa Bay’s 16-3 defeat of the Steelers in 1998 was the Buccaneers first victory in the first five meetings. The Bucs took a loss at the Steelers’ hands in Tampa Bay’s 1976 inaugural season, but then followed with three close losses from 1980 through 1989. Though the Bucs were outscored 42-0 in that first contest, the points margin in the next four games combined was just 75-71 in Pittsburgh’s favor. Five of the seven prior meetings have taken place in Tampa.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, September 26, 2010
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,890)
2010 Records: Tampa Bay 2-0, Pittsburgh 2-0
Network Television: CBS
Play-by-Play: Gus Johnson, Analyst: Steve Tasker
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay won at Carolina 20-7; Pittsburgh won at Tennessee 19-11

Head-To-Head
Pittsburgh leads series 7-1 (Regular Season)

SERIES BY THE NUMBERS
Overall Regular Season Series:……………….. Pittsburgh leads series, 7-1
Home Record vs. Pittsburgh Steelers:……………………………………..1-4
Road Record vs. Pittsburgh Steelers:………………………………………0-3
Current Streak:……………………………….Steelers, three games (2008-09)
Buccaneers Longest Streak:………………………………..One game (1998)
Steelers Longest Streak:………………………………. Four games (1976-89)
Regular Season Point Total:………………….Buccaneers 91 – Steelers 171
Most Points, Buccaneers:…………………………. 22, Steelers 31-22 (1989)
Most Points, Steelers:………………………………..42, Steelers 42-0 (1976)
Most Points, both teams:…………………………. 53, Steelers 31-22 (1989)
Fewest Points, Buccaneers:………………………… 0, Steelers 42-0 (1976)
Fewest Points, Steelers:…………………………. 3, Buccaneers 16-3 (1998)
Fewest Points, both teams:…………………… 19, Buccaneers 16-3 (1998)

What to Watch
Donald Penn & Jeremy Trueblood vs Jerome Harrison & LaMarr Woodley
The Steelers pass rush starts and ends with the duo of Harrison and Woodley. Through two games the two have combined for 5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 28 tackles. The two players charged with at a minimum, of slowing them down are Penn and Trueblood. Penn in the past has done an decent job against some of the leagues better pass rushers.. The same can’t be said for Trueblood who has had problems shutting down quick edge rushers in the past. The fate of the Bucs could rest squarely on the shoulders of its offensive tackles.

Greg Olson vs Dick LeBeau
Olson will be tested early and often by LeBeau 3-4 attacking blitz scheme, Olson who’s had his share of ups and downs as a play caller. Will need to be patient and take what LeBeau gives until he’s sure of what the Steelers game plan is. After last week against the Panthers it’s a safe bet that Olson will continue to call running plays even when they are not working to allow the pressure to be taken off both Josh Freeman and the defense.

Bucs Front Seven vs Steelers Rushing Attack
The Bucs who haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher through two games to start the 2010 season will be tested once again. The Steelers who have the leagues 31^st ranked passing attack and have given up 7 sacks in two games are sure to lean heavily on Rashard Mendenhall and the Steelers other backs to help control the tempo of the game and allow the defense to decide the out come.

INJURY REPORT
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Out
G Trai Essex (ankle)
QB Dennis Dixon (knee)
Probable
DT Casey Hampton (hamstring)
G Chris Kemoeatu (knee)
T Max Starks (ankle)
WR Hines Ward (calf)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Questionable
LB Niko Koutouvides (ankle)
CB Myron Lewis (knee)
C Jeff Faine (calf)
RB Kareem Huggins (groin)
WR Maurice Stovall (back)
Probable
QB Josh Freeman (right thumb)
RB Carnell Williams (hamstring)
TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

ENEMY COACHES
Steelers Head Coach: Mike Tomlin
Steelers Offensive Coordinator: Bruce Arians
Steelers Defensive Coordinator: Dick LeBeau
Steelers Special Teams Coach: Al Everest

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
PITTSBURGH STEELERS OFFENSE
Overall: 31st (240.5 ypg)
Rushing: 10th (124.5 ypg)
Passing: 31st (116.0 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 28th (7)
Points Scored: 21st (17.0 ppg)
PITTSBURGH STEELERS DEFENSE
Overall: 20th (266.5 ypg)
Rushing: 4th (52.0 ypg)
Passing: 17tht (214.5 ypg)
Sacks: 4th (6)
Points Allowed: 1st (10 ppg)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 24th (280.5 ypg)
Rushing: 15th (107.0 ypg)
Passing: 25th (173.5 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 8th (3)
Points Scored: 17th (18.5 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 15th (309.0 ypg)
Rushing: 15th (111.5 ypg)
Passing: 11th (197.5 ypg)
Sacks: 13th (4)
Points Allowed: 3rd (10.5 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

STEELERS 13
BUCS 17

The Glazer clan, consisting of Bryan, Joel, Edward & Malcolm, the father & son hierarchy and owners of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could squash all the rumors and speculation for debate with regards to Raheem Morris‘ future in Tampa, with one well thought out sentence to the local and national media backing their current head coach. But as unusual as it sounds for them to come out of hiding and refute such reports as they did earlier in the year when a certain radio personality over stepped his bounds – suggested the team was for sale -  tied the Glazer family to Bernie Madoff and his scandals business schemes.

When owners of NFL organizations have come out in the past and backed their current coach, it typically has been the kiss of death and the coach was subsequently fired at seasons end.

If anything, this is the most national news exposure  surrounding the team since the old guard purge at the beginning of the year. So why would they come out and refute such speculation, that Morris is safe?

If Bill Cowher, did indeed speak with the Glazers, maybe it was for a roll similar to that of Bill Parcells who oversees football operations for the Miami Dolphins or even that of the newly hired Mike Holmgren of the Cleveland Browns as they want a checks and balance system above that of just Mark Dominik.

When you consider what many pundits suggested at the midway point of the season, should Morris win between 2-4 games and the team make strides down the stretch his job would be secure in 2010, it now appears that Morris and his job security are being directly linked to season ticket renewals and dwindling attendance at Raymond James Stadium.

The Glazers for all purposes are very astute business men and understand that empty stadium seats equals less cash for them to pay down debts incurred with the purchase of Manchester United.

Landing a coach or consultant with the pedigree of Cowher, is an instant boost in season ticket renewals and a renewed since of hope by many fans that they are indeed serious about fielding a competitive team moving forward even it is built through the draft.

Jones leads the Jets with 1,068 rushing yards

The Jets lead the all-time series 8-1, including wins in each of the last six meetings. The last meeting was a 14-12 win in New York by the Jets in 2005. In 2000, the Jets took a trip to Raymond James Stadium and won 21-17. In Tampa Bay’s visit to New York in 1997, the Jets won 31-0. Tampa Bay’s lone win in the series was a 41-21 victory in 1984 in Tampa. New York also owns victories in 1976 (34-0), 1982 (32-17), 1985 (62-28), 1990 (16-14) and 1991 (16-13). Tampa Bay also faced the Jets in the 2003 American Bowl, an exhibition game played in Tokyo, Japan. The Buccaneers won the preseason game 30-14 on August 2, 2003.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, December 13, 2009
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,890)
2009 Records: Tampa Bay 1-11, N.Y. Jets 6-6
Network Television: CBS
Play-by-Play: Ian Eagle, Analyst: Rich Gannon
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay lost at Carolina 16-6; N.Y. Jets won at Buffalo 19-13
Next Game: Tampa Bay at Seattle (12/20); N.Y. Jets vs. Atlanta (12/20)

Key Match-Ups
Bucs Secondary vs Jets Receivers
It seems like every week Talib is matched up against an explosive receiver, but Talib has risen to the occasion more times then not this season, The potential downfall could be the Bucs other corners having to matchup against Jerricho Cotchery who leads the Jets in receptions and yards add to the mix Dustin Keller the Jets field stretching tight end and the secondary will have there work cut out for them.

Bucs Front Seven vs Jets Ground Game
The front seven showed signs of life in the second half last week against the Panthers, but came out soft in the first half. The Jets present another challenge with their vaunted number one rushing attack averaging 169 yards a game on the ground. If the Bucs front seven plays uninspired football out of the gate they might find themselves play catchup the rest of the game.

Josh Freeman vs Jets Blitz Packages
After, throwing five interceptions in Panthers territory last week, Freeman will have his work cut out for him against the Jets number one rated pass defense. The Jets are allowing a league leading low, of just 167 yards per game through the air. Freeman will need to show patience’s and take what the Jets give him and limit mistakes for the Bucs to have a chance this Sunday. Jets head coach Rex Ryan, is sure to dial up a heavy onslaught of exotic blitz’s for Freeman this week.

INJURY REPORT
NEW YORK JETS
OUT
CB Dwight Lowery (ankle)
QB Mark Sanchez (knee)
G Robert Turner (knee)
QUESTIONABLE
G Alan Faneca (illness)
T Wayne Hunter (illness)
PROBABLE
CB Marquice Cole (knee
DE Shaun Ellis (knee)
S Jim Leonhard (thumb)
LB Calvin Pace (shoulder)
CB Donald Strickland (concussion)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
DOUBTFUL
DT Michael Bennett (toe)
WR Michael Clayton (knee)
CB Derrick Roberson (groin)
QUESTIONABLE
LB Geno Hayes (hamstring)
WR Sammie Stroughter (lower back)
RB Carnell Williams (back)
PROBABLE
TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

ENEMY COACHES
Jets Head Coach: Rex Ryan
Jets Offensive Coordinator: Brian Schottenheimer
Jets Defensive Coordinator: Mike Pettine
Jets Special Teams Coach: Mike Westhoff

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 27th (291.0 ypg)
Rushing: 21st (102.8 ypg)
Passing: 26th (188.2 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 15th (26)
Points Scored: 29th (15.6 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 26th (365.8 ypg)
Rushing: 31st (160.1 ypg)
Passing: 11th (205.7 ypg)
Sacks: 21st (24)
Points Allowed: 31st (27.5 ppg)

NEW YORK JETS OFFENSE
Overall: 20th (324.9 ypg)
Rushing: 1st (168.6 ypg)
Passing: 30th (156.3 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 12th (25)
Points Scored: 17th (20.8 ppg)
NEW YORK JETS DEFENSE
Overall: 2nd (276.4 ypg)
Rushing: 17th (109.4 ypg)
Passing: 1st (167.0 ypg)
Sacks: 21st (24)
Points Allowed: 4th (17.3 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

JETS 20
BUCS 13

Can the Bucs knock off the undefeated Saints?

Tampa Bay has won seven of the last 11 meetings, including three of the last four contests played at Raymond James Stadium. New Orleans leads the all-time series 20-14, but the series is tied at 7-7 as NFC South rivals. The teams split the series last year, with New Orleans winning at home in Week 1 and the Buccaneers prevailing at home in Week 13. The Buccaneers swept both contests in 2005 and 2007, including a 10-3 victory in a road contest played in Baton Rouge and 27-13 in the regular season home finale, a victory that clinched the NFC South title for the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay and New Orleans split the series in 2003 and 2004 with the visiting team winning each of the contests. Prior to joining the NFC South, Tampa Bay had claimed three of the previous four meetings, including wins in both 1999 and 2001. The Bucs won the first game between the two clubs, a 33-14 triumph at the Superdome in 1977. Tampa Bay tied an NFL record, which has since been broken, by returning three interceptions for touchdowns. The victory marked the Bucs’ first regular season win after 26 consecutive losses. More than 8,000 fans greeted the team upon its return to One Buccaneer Place. Tampa Bay and New Orleans split the next four meetings, each winning two straight on the other team’s turf before the Saints assembled a six-game winning streak.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,890)
2009 Records: Tampa Bay 1-8, New Orleans 9-0
Network Television: FOX
Play-by-Play: Sam Rosen, Analyst: Tim Ryan
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay lost at Miami 25-23; New Orleans won at St. Louis 28-23
Next Game: Tampa Bay at Atlanta (11/29); New Orleans vs. New England (11/30)

Key Match-Ups
Josh Freeman vs Blitz- Saints Secondary
Freeman, who’s making his third start has shown an uncanny ability to rally the team late in games, Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams is sure to blitz the young signal caller, but with the Saints secondary banged up Freeman who will have his number one receiver for the first time, should be able to elude the pressure and force the action downfield.

DE Stylez G White vs LT Jermon Bushrod
White after sitting out last week with a shoulder injury gets to face Bushrod who has shown a propensity to give up sacks, through 8 starts since being inserted into the lineup, Bushrod has given up 5 sacks, White’s quickness should allow him to get after the first year starter and force Brees to hurry some throws.

Bucs Secondary vs Saints Aerial Assault
The Saints aerial show and furthermore Drew Brees is connecting on 68.4% of his passes, while tossing 19 touchdowns, but he has shown he’s capable of throwing the interception this season with 9 on the year. If the secondary doesn’t get help from the defensive line in pressuring Brees it could be like Thanksgiving at Raymond James Stadium this Sunday with Brees carving up the Bucs secondary.

INJURY REPORT
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
OUT
CB Jabari Greer (groin)
WR Lance Moore (ankle)
CB Tracy Porter (knee)
RB Reggie Bush (knee)
DT Sedrick Ellis (knee)
PROBABLE
C Jonathan Goodwin (ankle)
S Darren Sharper (knee)
TE David Thomas (knee)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
QUESTIONABLE
CB Elbert Mack (ankle)
PROBABLE
WR Antonio Bryant (knee)
CB Torrie Cox (not injury related)
QB Byron Leftwich (right elbow)
CB Aqib Talib (hamstring)
RB Carnell Williams (knee)
TE Kellen Winslow (knee)

ENEMY COACHES
Saints Head Coach: Sean Payton
Saints Offensive Coordinator: Pete Carmichael Jr.
Saints Defensive Coordinator: Gregg Williams
Saints Special Teams Coach: Greg McMahaon

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 28th (276.3 ypg)
Rushing: 25th (98.8 ypg)
Passing: 23rd (177.6 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 14th (19)
Points Scored: 25th (17.4 ppg)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 29th (379.2 ypg)
Rushing: 31st (167.3 ypg)
Passing: 15th (211.9 ypg)
Sacks: 23rd (17)
Points Allowed: 31st (28.4 ppg)

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS OFFENSE
Overall: 1st (426.1 ypg)
Rushing: 5th (151.1 ypg)
Passing: 4th (275.0 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 12th (13)
Points Scored: 1st (36.8 ppg)

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS DEFENSE
Overall: 21st (343.0 ypg)
Rushing: 20th (115.3 ypg)
Passing: 19th (227.7 ypg)
Sacks: 12th (21)
Points Allowed: 17th (21.9 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

SAINTS 37
BUCS 22

Bucs' to honor Selmon, '79 team at half time

The Packers lead the all-time series 29-20-1 but Tampa Bay has won six of the last nine meetings and six of the seven games played at Raymond James Stadium, including a 30-21 win last season. The Bucs and Packers have played at least once in every year except 1976, 1982, 2004, 2006 and 2007 since Tampa Bay entered the league in 1976. Since the divisions realigned in 2002, Tampa Bay has won three of the four meetings with Green Bay. The teams first met in 1977 and the Bucs notched their first series wins in 1979, when they swept the Pack en route to the NFC Central title. After a 14-14 tie in the next encounter, Tampa Bay won three consecutive contests. The Bucs captured four consecutive wins from 1987-89, their longest streak in the series.

This week the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will wear orange jerseys for the first time in almost 13 years when the team will conduct their first-ever ‘Throwback Game.’ In conjunction with the throwback uniforms, the team will also honor the 1979 team that was one game away from playing in the Super Bowl and induct DE Lee Roy Selmon into the Buccaneers ‘Ring of Honor.’

Selmon will become the first inductee into the team’s Ring of Honor after becoming the first Buccaneer player ever inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on July 29, 1995. His number 63 also became the first and only jersey retired by the Buccaneers on September 7, 1986. The Buccaneers’ first draft choice in 1976, Selmon was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1979 and NFC Defensive Lineman of the Year by the NFL Players Association four times (1979-80, 1982-83). Drafted out of Oklahoma where he won both the Outland and Lombardi trophies during his senior season, Selmon went on to become the cornerstone of the Buccaneers franchise for nearly a decade. The Buccaneers’ all-time career sack leader (78.5), Selmon anchored a ferocious defense which led the team to its first-ever NFC Central Division Championship in 1979.

The Buccaneers will don uniforms meant to replicate the team’s very first look from its inaugural season in 1976. The Florida Orange, red and white combination changed subtly over the years that followed, but the Glazer family conducted painstaking research in order to faithfully replicate that 1976 uniform. Digging through historical archives and enlisting the help of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Buccaneers Co-Chairman Ed Glazer worked out the minute details of the uniform, from head to toe, even though the actual equipment from that era was fraught with inconsistency. In the end, a Mike Washington jersey from 1976 helped establish the uniform’s dimensions and stitching and a Council Rudolph jersey from 1977 helped establish the perfect color matches. Glazer also relied on team photo archives, old NFL Films footage, other uniform samples and more.

The Buccaneers will wear “Florida Orange” jerseys, the primary color adopted by the team when it began play in 1976, with red and white trim and white pants with orange and red stripes along with the famous Buccaneer helmet with its pirate head logo, Bucco Bruce. Of note, the orange jerseys were worn just once during the 1976 season, in a preseason game.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2009
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,900)
2009 Records: Tampa Bay 0-7, Green Bay 4-3
Network Television: FOX
Play-by-Play: Sam Rosen, Analyst: Tim Ryan, Sideline: Chris Myers
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay lost vs New England 35-7; Green Bay lost vs. Minnesota 38-26
Next Game: Tampa Bay at Miami (11/15); Green Bay vs. Dallas (11/15)

Key Match-Ups
Bucs DL vs Packers OL
The Packers are the worse team in sacks allowed this year, ranked 32^nd and having given up 31 sacks the Bucs defense might actual be able to apply some pressure on Aaron Rodgers who enters the game nursing a troublesome foot injury. With the Packers starting left tackle Chad Clifton ruled out and his back up hobbling this should allow Greg “Stylez G” White to breakout of his funk.

Greg Olson vs Dom Capers
Olson has abandoned the running game early an often in the teams zero-dash-seven start, with the team turning to a rookie and future of the franchise, Josh Freeman, will Olson provide the rookie signal caller with a balanced attack and allow him to read half the field until he gets comfortable?

Bucs Receivers vs Packers Secondary
With both Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton limited this week in practice, coupled with a rookie quarterback making his first NFL start, the Bucs need other receiving options to step up in a big way against the ball-hawking secondary of the Packers.

INJURY REPORT
GREEN BAY PACKERS
OUT
LB Brandon Chillar (hand)
TE Jermichael Finley (knee)
WR Jordy Nelson (knee)
C Jason Spitz (back)
QUESTIONABLE
WR Jake Allen (quadricep)
S Derrick Martin (concussion)
FB Korey Hall (calf)
OL T.J. Lang (olique)
PROBABLE
T Chad Clifton (ankle)
WR Donald Driver (neck)
QB Aaron Rodgers (feet)
CB Charles Woodson (hip)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
QUESTIONABLE
WR Antonio Bryant (knee)
WR Mark Clayton (wrist)
CB Elbert Mack (ankle)
PROBABLE
CB Aqib Talib (ankle)
G Jeremy Zuttah (shoulder)

ENEMY COACHES
Packers Head Coach: Mike McCarthy
Packers Offensive Coordinator: Joe Philbin
Packers Defensive Coordinator: Dom Capers
Packers Special Teams Coach: Shawn Slocum

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 28th (272.3 ypg)
Rushing: 24th (98.0 ypg)
Passing: 23rd (174.3 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 15th (13)
Points Scored: 29th (13.7 ppg)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 28th (376.4 ypg)
Rushing: 30th (162.4 ypg)
Passing: 15th (214.0 ypg)
Sacks: 29th (11)
Points Allowed: 20th (29.0 ppg)

GREEN BAY PACKERS OFFENSE
Overall: 9th (372.7 ypg)
Rushing: 16th (114.0 ypg)
Passing: 9th (258.7 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 32nd (31)
Points Scored: 8th (26.7 ppg)

GREEN BAY PACKERS DEFENSE
Overall: 4th (283.4 ypg)
Rushing: 9th (99.4 ypg)
Passing: 9th (184.0 ypg)
Sacks: 28th (12)
Points Allowed: 9th (19.1 ppg)

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

PACKERS 29
BUCS 16

Bucs still looking for first win

Tampa Bay leads the all-time series 8-7 in the regular season, including wins in four of the last five meetings. In 2007, Tampa Bay posted a 19- 13 victory at Raymond James Stadium, and also prevailed with victories in 2005 and 2006. The early part of the series was marked by streaks, with the Redskins winning the first four meetings followed by four consecutive victories for the Bucs. The Redskins downed the Bucs 20-17 in overtime at Washington in 2000 before the Bucs won 35-13 at Washington in 2003. In 2004, the Redskins won 16-10 in Head Coach Joe Gibbs’ first game back with the Redskins in Washington. Tampa Bay’s 17- 14 victory (12/18/94) capped the Redskins’ only winless season at RFK Stadium. The Redskins won the first-ever meeting between the teams, 10-0 in 1977 in Tampa.

YOUNG GUN
This week, second-year QB Josh Johnson will make his first NFL start. Last week against the N.Y. Giants (9/27), Johnson made his first appearance at quarterback and in Week 2 at Buffalo (9/20), Johnson made his NFL debut, seeing snaps at wide receiver. Johnson, a fifth-round pick (160th overall) by the Buccaneers in the 2008 NFL Draft, played his collegiate ball at the University of San Diego. While with the Toreros, Johnson set career USD passing records for touchdown passes (113), completions (724), attempts (1,065) and passing yards (9,699). Johnson also owns the NCAA FCS record for passing efficiency (176.68 rating) while playing in 41 games with 34 starts for the Toreros. Johnson also rushed for 1,864 yards and 19 touchdowns during his collegiate career. In all, Johnson totaled 11,563 yards of total offense in college. During his senior season in 2007, Johnson accumulated 43 passing touchdowns and just one interception on 206-of-301 pass attempts for 2,988 yards. Last season, Johnson spent the entire season on the Buccaneers active roster but was inactive for all 16 contests.

GAME INFORMATION
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Site: FedExField (91,704)
2009 Records: Tampa Bay 0-3, Washington 1-2
Network Television: FOX
Play-by-Play: Sam Rosen, Analyst: Tim Ryan, Sideline: Laura Okmin
National Radio: Compass Media Networks
Play-by-Play: Chris Carrino, Analyst: Brian Baldinger
Bucs Radio: US 103.5, flagship station (103.5 FM, 620 AM)
Play-by-Play: Gene Deckerhoff, Color: Dave Moore, Sideline: T.J. Rives
Last Game: Tampa Bay lost vs. N.Y. Giants 24-0; Washington lost at Detroit 19-14
Next Game: Tampa Bay at Philadelphia (10/11); Washington at Carolina (10/11)

Key Match-Ups
Bucs Offensive Line vs Redskins Defensive Line
After last weeks inept performance against the New York Giants, the Bucs now face the man mountain that slipped through there fingers in Albert Haynesworth. The interior of the line must control the game, for first time starter Josh Johnson or else it could be another very long day at the office for the Bucs offense.

Bucs Defensive Line vs Redskins Offensive Line
It seems this is going to end up being the battle cry for the foreseeable future that is the need for a pass rush to emerge. But after witnessing the lack of one, it might be best just to start looking towards free agency and the draft to fix this major area of need. As no single player has stepped up an made the most of any chance afforded them.

Josh Johnson vs Redskins secondary
With not much film to scout at the pro level, how effective will the Redskins secondary be against Johnson, it’s said that Johnson has a gunslingers mentality, but will he be allowed to uncork the right arm or will offensive coordinator Greg Olson play it close the vest and limit Johnson’s reads?

INJURY REPORT
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
DOUBTFUL
DT Anthony Montgomery (knee)
QUESTIONABLE
RB Clinton Portis (calf)
PROBABLE
FB Mike Sellers (thigh)
CB Carlos Rogers (ankle)
DT Cornelius Griffith (thigh)
CB DeAngelo Hall (ankle)
DT Albert Haynesworth (glute)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
OUT
C Jeff Faine (triceps)
DE Kyle Moore (knee)
QUESTIONABLE
DE Gaines Adams (groin)
WR Antonio Bryant (knee)
QB Byron Leftwich (hip)
RB Derrick Ward (knee)
PROBABLE
DT Roy Miller (ankle)
RB Clifton Smith (quad)
RB Cadillac Williams (knee)
CB Torrie Cox (ankle)
RB Earnest Graham (hamstring)
WR Maurice Stovall (knee)
G Marcus Johnson (ankle)
G Jeremy Zuttah (hip)
FB B.J. Askew (hamstring)
K Mike Nugent (left quad)

ENEMY COACHES
Redskins Head Coach: Jim Zorn
Redskins Offensive Coordinator: Sherman Smith
Redskins Defensive Coordinator: Greg Blache
Redskins Special Teams Coach: Danny Smith

STATISTICAL RANKINGS:
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS OFFENSE
Overall: 25th (296 ypg)
Rushing: 25th (86 ypg)
Passing: 17th (210 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 3rd (2)
Points Scored: 27th (13.7 ppg)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
Overall: 31st (432 ypg)
Rushing: 31st (187 ypg)
Passing: 21st (245 ypg)
Sacks: 25th (3)
Points Allowed: 31st (30.3 ppg)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS OFFENSE
Overall: 13th (341 ypg)
Rushing: 24th (92 ypg)
Passing: 10th (250 ypg)
Sacks Allowed: 18th (6)
Points Scored: 28th (13.3 ppg)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS DEFENSE
Overall: 15th (326 ypg)
Rushing: 22nd (128 ypg)
Passing: 11th (198 ypg)
Sacks: 22nd (4)
Points Allowed: 6th (16.3 ppg)

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Tampa Bay leads 8-7 (Regular Season)
Season Result Site
1977 L, 10-0 Tampa
1982 L, 21-13 Tampa
1989 L, 32-28 Washington
1993 L, 23-17 Tampa
1994 W, 26-21 Tampa
1994 W, 17-14 Washington
1995 W, 14-6 Tampa
1996 W, 24-10 Tampa
1998 L, 20-16 Washington
2000 L, 20-17 (OT) Washington
2003 W, 35-13 Washington
2004 L, 16-10 Washington
2005 W, 36-35 Tampa
2006 W, 20-17 Tampa
2007 W, 19-13 Tampa
Series tied 1-1 (Playoffs)
Season Result Site
1999 W, 14-13* Tampa
2005 L, 17-10** Tampa
* 1999 NFC Divisional Playoff game
** 2005 NFC Wild Card game

Buc Central’s Prognostication:
As always we are not advocating gambling based on our views of the game, especially considering we typically are inclined to make such educated guesses using are heart rather the any rational thought applied to picking. We are merely giving an opinion of who we think has the best chance at securing a victory.

Buccaneers 17
Redskins 23