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Indefinite Tampa Bay Bucs thread: Somehow not on the list of teams to never have won a Super Bowl (2 Viewers)

I mean they're a game out of the playoffs right now I'm a soft division. I'm good with going for it now. :shrug:
Sure.  By "true contention" I meant a deep playoff run.  The win against the Bears was the first time they've won at home in what seems like forever.  They still have Seattle and Dallas, a road game against San Diego, two with New Orleans, and the finale against Carolina.  They'll have to go 4-2 at worst to make the playoffs.

They really surprised me yesterday though.  First time they've done that in a positive way in a long time.  We'll see how they stack up with the NFC elite this week.  If they win that one I'll start getting excited.

 
Grahamburn said:
Sure.  By "true contention" I meant a deep playoff run.  The win against the Bears was the first time they've won at home in what seems like forever.  They still have Seattle and Dallas, a road game against San Diego, two with New Orleans, and the finale against Carolina.  They'll have to go 4-2 at worst to make the playoffs.

They really surprised me yesterday though.  First time they've done that in a positive way in a long time.  We'll see how they stack up with the NFC elite this week.  If they win that one I'll start getting excited.
Yep, if they can go out and beat Seattle next week, then I could buy in to the playoff talk but I want to see that type of performance another week before I get too excited about this year. Regardless, it is exciting to actually still be in contention this late in the season. Sunday is a huge game for us and could be a turning point for the franchise if we win.

 
Hell of a game. These past 3 weeks have shocked me. Thought we showed at the beginning of the year that we weren't ready to compete with the good teams, let alone beat them. However, we've come out and punched 2 top 10 teams right in the mouth these past 2 weeks. I think the culture has officially changed for this team and with the momentum we currently have, we definitely have a chance at the playoffs. 

The defense was unbelievable today. One of the best performances I've seen in a longgggg time from the Bucs D.

 
Noah Spence looking like the steal of the draft.  What a monster.  I'll give Licht a pass on Aguayo just for getting that guy. 

Weird game.  Looked like they continued finding ways to lose while also finally learning how to win all at the same time.  First time the defense has won a game in a very long time.  Amazing what can happen when you rush the passer and start getting healthy.  

When was the last time they won three games in a row? 

 
Jameis played a flawless game.  I know I can't ignore the late interception, but I'm ignoring the late interception.  Perfect TD to Brate on a huge 3rd down negated by a phantom penalty.  It really is pretty amazing how the refs continually insert themselves into the game on crucial plays.  The fans can't even get excited anymore until 10 seconds after the play is over.  No wonder the NFL's ratings are tanking. 

 
Jameis played a flawless game.  I know I can't ignore the late interception, but I'm ignoring the late interception.  Perfect TD to Brate on a huge 3rd down negated by a phantom penalty.  It really is pretty amazing how the refs continually insert themselves into the game on crucial plays.  The fans can't even get excited anymore until 10 seconds after the play is over.  No wonder the NFL's ratings are tanking. 
Yea that sucked. I couldn't see it well in the stadium but it seemed like a terrible call. And you're right, the fans were all going nuts and then my wife tugs on my shirt and says there is a flag down. Just saps all the excitement out of the game. 

 
Yea that sucked. I couldn't see it well in the stadium but it seemed like a terrible call. And you're right, the fans were all going nuts and then my wife tugs on my shirt and says there is a flag down. Just saps all the excitement out of the game. 
They called it on Dotson.  His punch was directly to the shoulders of the end.  Nowhere near the face.  I guess they could have had the number wrong, but he definitely did not commit the penalty.  Stuff like that is just inexcusable when these games are on the line.  The refs should know better than to make that type of game changing call on a swing play late in a game.  Jameis and the Bucs sealed it on that play.  I'm glad it didn't cost them but I'm selfish with his numbers.  3 TD's against that defense in a huge game for the franchise would have been great and that was the cherry on top of a flawless performance.

The officiating is so bad.  I realize the plays move fast, but err on the side of not throwing the damn flag.  If they'd let these guys play a little these games would be much more enjoyable to watch.

 
Unbelievable. If you would have told me they would be legitimately competing for a playoff spot after the Falcons game, I would have laughed in your face. These past 4 games have been incredible and you can really see the team growing. Very fun to watch.

 
Did not realize Brate was so young. I'd heard the name in past years a couple times, figured he was 27, 28. He's 25. Fan-freakin-tastic!

 
Unbelievable. If you would have told me they would be legitimately competing for a playoff spot after the Falcons game, I would have laughed in your face. These past 4 games have been incredible and you can really see the team growing. Very fun to watch.
We went to that pasting by the Falcons. Walked out wondering how many years away we were, and a month later we are seriously discussing winning the division. 

 
Russell Wilson, Philip Rivers, and Drew Brees the last 3 weeks.  633 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, 9 sacks, 57% completion, 33 points allowed.

 
Russell Wilson, Philip Rivers, and Drew Brees the last 3 weeks.  633 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, 9 sacks, 57% completion, 33 points allowed.
I just can't believe this is happening. They might hurt Dak next week. 

 
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Sure.  By "true contention" I meant a deep playoff run.  The win against the Bears was the first time they've won at home in what seems like forever.  They still have Seattle and Dallas, a road game against San Diego, two one with New Orleans, and the finale against Carolina.  They'll have to go 4-2 at worst to make the playoffs.

They really surprised me yesterday though.  First time they've done that in a positive way in a long time.  We'll see how they stack up with the NFC elite this week.  If they win that one I'll start getting excited.
Tested again, Bucs.  Time to be relevant.  @Dallas Cowboys, you're next. 

 
Your D seems to have just moved up five levels recently. Got a soft spot for the Buccs, hope you make it to playoffs unless its at the expense of us, or if you end up playing us well then of course, otherwise, would love to see you go deep

 
The D has made a complete 360 and is obviously the main reason for this win streak. I can't believe it, but when you look at the talent we have on that side of the ball, our D really should have been much better than it was earlier in the year. Guess it just took some time for the players to get comfortable in Smitty's scheme. I was pretty critical of Smith the first 5 or 6 weeks, but he has really turned this unit around and has them playing at a very high level. Props to you Mike Smith.

The offense is starting to scare me a bit. It looks like the Saints focused all of their attention on Mike and stopping the run yesterday, and no one else was able to step up. The o-line looked really bad and did not let many plays develop. I also think Dirk is still coaching too conservative at times. With the defense playing at an elite level these past few weeks, we've been able to get by with it, but going forward I could definitely see it costing us.

 
I'm thinking way too far ahead here, but if Winston has a big game and the Bucs win this week, do you think we start to hear his name in the MVP discussion? I don't think he'd ever win it this year, but with no one really standing out much, I think he could be in the conversation given what he has done with an awful supporting cast besides Evans and just turning the team around. Maybe I'm being a bit of a homer, but I think his name may start to get brought up in the discussion with a win over the Cowboys on primetime.

 
Moving to 9-5 with a W in Dallas.....does that stake a claim as a legit contender, or just a really really hot team?
I'd say yes, for sure. Knocking off arguably the best team in the league after already beating KC in Arrowhead and Seattle, and taking care of business against Chicago, New Orleans and San Diego. It's not like this has been an easy stretch of games, we have beaten some legit top 5-10 teams.

 
Well, all that fun evaporated quickly.  The 2016 run is over.  Doug Martin is a malcontent.  Nobody seems to have any idea what happened with him.  Back hanging out with Josh probably.

Why would we go out of our way to bench Doug Martin?  There has to be something else going on.  I knew we should have franchised him.  I hate being right sometimes.  He counts $7M against the cap next year.  He'll probably be released and the Bucs take the hit.  He'll sign with a real organization and go on to several Super Bowl wins.  I doubt anyone will give up anything of value for him. 

Other than Evans we're once again going into another off-season void of weapons.

I now find myself questioning Dirk's on field game management and off field player management.  It's inexplicable to me the way this guy keeps his time outs at the end of the first half like he can redeem them for candy or something.  The Saints are about to score with under two minutes left and he just lets them control the ball and time tick away without giving Jameis an opportunity to get the ball back?  Why?  If you think you're going to shut down Drew Brees and the Saints all day in New Orleans you're an absolute idiot.  Go try to score some freaking points on one of the worst defenses in the NFL!

And they play calling?  UGH!  If Koetter tries that toss sweep or little Jameis pump fake delayed draw gimmick that hasn't worked all year one more ### #### time I might go insane.  There's just very little imagination in this offense.  Maybe it's personnel related?

On to the off-season and what I'd like to see them do. 

A veteran WR is mandatory.  Jameis needs weapons.  At least one more weapon.  Evans is a star and I'd like to get him extended this off-season if possible as well.  Vincent Jackson is coming off the books.  But, do they need another big money WR on the opposite side of Mike?  Probably not, but Alshon Jeffery will be a free agent most likely.  Terrelle Pryor?  Adding one of them opposite Evans with Brate at TE and Humphries in the slot is pretty nasty.  I honestly think those last two guys are "good enough."  They've done some great things this year.  Every QB needs the trust worthy guys in the middle of the field. 

Don't want to commit a five year deal to a guy who has averaged 12 games a year?  Maybe DeSean Jackson or Pierre Garcon on a 3 year deal is more our speed.  Washington can't keep them both and afford to pay Kirk.  If they go this route they need to draft someone at the position in the first two rounds to improve the depth.  

The offensive line is in shambles.  That much was obvious at the end of the year.  They have virtually zero depth at the position.  They need at least one signing here as well to at least get some depth at the position.  It's difficult to speculate who will be available as these guys rarely hit the market. 

Kevin Pamphile played right tackle with Dotson out and Cherilus in a wheel chair.  Will they get any contribution from JR Sweezy?  I doubt it.  If he miraculously heals up maybe Marpet can move to center with Pamphile and Sweezy at the guard spots?  One more year of Dotson and Smith at the tackles and draft more linemen at some point this year.  The draft isn't deep at tackle though so unless someone falls in your lap in the teens they'd need to look at them late.

The resurgence from the defense was impressive.  Hopefully they get Mike Smith for one more year before he bolts for a head coaching job.  If not maybe promote in house?  Jay Hayes stands out.  They need help in the secondary and depth on the defensive line especially if a couple guys leave in free agency.  Another athletic linebacker couldn't hurt. 

Running back is a wasteland, but the draft is full of talent.  They used their early picks on defense last year, so I'm hoping for a WR, a RB, and an offensive lineman in the first three rounds.  Jameis needs some help.

I'd love for them to re-sign Bryan Anger.  He was fantastic.  I hope they can re-sign Gholston and Akeem Spence as well.  We can ignore QB and place kicker at least.  I'd think Hawley would want to stay here?  He's only 28.

Damn, that's a lot.  I thought I was over Saturday.  Guess not.

 
Grahamburn said:
Well, all that fun evaporated quickly.  The 2016 run is over.  Doug Martin is a malcontent.  Nobody seems to have any idea what happened with him.  Back hanging out with Josh probably.

Why would we go out of our way to bench Doug Martin?  There has to be something else going on.  I knew we should have franchised him.  I hate being right sometimes.  He counts $7M against the cap next year.  He'll probably be released and the Bucs take the hit.  He'll sign with a real organization and go on to several Super Bowl wins.  I doubt anyone will give up anything of value for him. 

Other than Evans we're once again going into another off-season void of weapons.

I now find myself questioning Dirk's on field game management and off field player management.  It's inexplicable to me the way this guy keeps his time outs at the end of the first half like he can redeem them for candy or something.  The Saints are about to score with under two minutes left and he just lets them control the ball and time tick away without giving Jameis an opportunity to get the ball back?  Why?  If you think you're going to shut down Drew Brees and the Saints all day in New Orleans you're an absolute idiot.  Go try to score some freaking points on one of the worst defenses in the NFL!

And they play calling?  UGH!  If Koetter tries that toss sweep or little Jameis pump fake delayed draw gimmick that hasn't worked all year one more ### #### time I might go insane.  There's just very little imagination in this offense.  Maybe it's personnel related?

On to the off-season and what I'd like to see them do. 

A veteran WR is mandatory.  Jameis needs weapons.  At least one more weapon.  Evans is a star and I'd like to get him extended this off-season if possible as well.  Vincent Jackson is coming off the books.  But, do they need another big money WR on the opposite side of Mike?  Probably not, but Alshon Jeffery will be a free agent most likely.  Terrelle Pryor?  Adding one of them opposite Evans with Brate at TE and Humphries in the slot is pretty nasty.  I honestly think those last two guys are "good enough."  They've done some great things this year.  Every QB needs the trust worthy guys in the middle of the field. 

Don't want to commit a five year deal to a guy who has averaged 12 games a year?  Maybe DeSean Jackson or Pierre Garcon on a 3 year deal is more our speed.  Washington can't keep them both and afford to pay Kirk.  If they go this route they need to draft someone at the position in the first two rounds to improve the depth.  

The offensive line is in shambles.  That much was obvious at the end of the year.  They have virtually zero depth at the position.  They need at least one signing here as well to at least get some depth at the position.  It's difficult to speculate who will be available as these guys rarely hit the market. 

Kevin Pamphile played right tackle with Dotson out and Cherilus in a wheel chair.  Will they get any contribution from JR Sweezy?  I doubt it.  If he miraculously heals up maybe Marpet can move to center with Pamphile and Sweezy at the guard spots?  One more year of Dotson and Smith at the tackles and draft more linemen at some point this year.  The draft isn't deep at tackle though so unless someone falls in your lap in the teens they'd need to look at them late.

The resurgence from the defense was impressive.  Hopefully they get Mike Smith for one more year before he bolts for a head coaching job.  If not maybe promote in house?  Jay Hayes stands out.  They need help in the secondary and depth on the defensive line especially if a couple guys leave in free agency.  Another athletic linebacker couldn't hurt. 

Running back is a wasteland, but the draft is full of talent.  They used their early picks on defense last year, so I'm hoping for a WR, a RB, and an offensive lineman in the first three rounds.  Jameis needs some help.

I'd love for them to re-sign Bryan Anger.  He was fantastic.  I hope they can re-sign Gholston and Akeem Spence as well.  We can ignore QB and place kicker at least.  I'd think Hawley would want to stay here?  He's only 28.

Damn, that's a lot.  I thought I was over Saturday.  Guess not.


Sign Alshon is priority #1. I see the needs as:

1.  Vet wideout 

2. Olineman, either at RT or C - Smith, Pamphile and Marpet probably around a while. Need a vet here. Too many young kids. Not sure what FA offers but the draft looks terrible for premier OL talent. 

3. Pass rusher and re-sign Gholston. Hopefully Spence becomes a stud but Akers is another year older and J. Smith is dead. 

4. Safety. Might be #1

5. Third corner

6. RB - this may be higher but it's easier to fill imo. I'm a homer but draft Dalvin. 

 
I like Dalvin.  He's a stud.  Still, how many resources can you put in the position?  Doug was a first rounder and now has big money attached to him.  I'll assume there's truth to the chatter that the suspension voids his guarantees, but it's still another year wasted and talented player jettisoned.  Sims was a 3rd round pick.  He's constantly hurt so far in his career.  Cadillac was a long time ago, but he was 5th overall and we passed on Aaron Rodgers for years of mediocrity.  I'm grasping there, but it still stings.  

Of all the teams in the playoff picture this year only Le'Veon Bell and Ezekiel Elliott were picked in the first two rounds for playoff teams.  Bell has been injured and suspended, and Zeke runs behind a powerhouse offensive line.  Honestly, we can do this same exercise almost every year.  Teams that take RBs early don't have much success. 

If they drop some coin on Alson, another lineman or two, Sweezy returns, and they can re-sign a few guys then a luxury like Dalvin is doable and exciting.  If not they need to build the trenches or grab a threat on the outside for Jameis.  He didn't have much of a chance with Dotson out these last few weeks.

 
Unless the o-line was completely revamped through FA, taking Cook in the 1st round would be my final straw with Licht. They need to improve the o-line or getting a RB will be completely pointless. Look at how Gurley did this year in St. Louis. 

O-line and WR have to be the main priorities this season. They simply need to add more around Jameis or it's going to turn into a Luck 2.0 situation, where they're just wasting a great, young QB. For WR, bring in a guy from FA like Robert Woods, who would be a very good WR3 and at least a respectable WR2 if needed. Draft another WR in 1st or 2nd round, who would hopefully step in immediately as the WR2, but if not could be behind Woods or another FA for a year.

There should be at least 2 upgrades made to the o-line. I love Hawley and his attitude, but his play just doesn’t cut it. He’s too small and gets blown up too much. Bring in a legit C. Other than Ali, the rest of the line is pretty up and down and I think we need to bring in another OT. Not sure there are many OT’s worth drafting in the 1st round this year, so ideally we would grab a WR in round 1, and then go OT in round 2. If we can’t find a good C through FA or the mid rounds of the draft, I’m fine with Hawley as a stop gap, but he’ll need to be replaced the following year.

On defense, I think we’re in pretty good shape overall. Safety is probably the most obvious concern, and I think we could find a decent safety in FA. We could use another CB for when Grimes retires too, but can wait a year on that if needed. I always think we should be addressing the d-line as the games are won in the trenches, so if a good pass rusher is available in FA or when we pick, we need to draft them.

 
Also scheduled to have the 3rd most cap room in the NFL, and the only two teams with more are Cleveland and San Francisco.  The Bucs should be able to sign anyone they desire in free agency. 

ETA:  They also have the fewest signed players in the NFL heading into free agency with just 32 under contract.  Should be an exciting FA period.

 
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Bucsfan5493 said:
Unless the o-line was completely revamped through FA, taking Cook in the 1st round would be my final straw with Licht. They need to improve the o-line or getting a RB will be completely pointless. Look at how Gurley did this year in St. Louis. 

O-line and WR have to be the main priorities this season. They simply need to add more around Jameis or it's going to turn into a Luck 2.0 situation, where they're just wasting a great, young QB. For WR, bring in a guy from FA like Robert Woods, who would be a very good WR3 and at least a respectable WR2 if needed. Draft another WR in 1st or 2nd round, who would hopefully step in immediately as the WR2, but if not could be behind Woods or another FA for a year.

There should be at least 2 upgrades made to the o-line. I love Hawley and his attitude, but his play just doesn’t cut it. He’s too small and gets blown up too much. Bring in a legit C. Other than Ali, the rest of the line is pretty up and down and I think we need to bring in another OT. Not sure there are many OT’s worth drafting in the 1st round this year, so ideally we would grab a WR in round 1, and then go OT in round 2. If we can’t find a good C through FA or the mid rounds of the draft, I’m fine with Hawley as a stop gap, but he’ll need to be replaced the following year.

On defense, I think we’re in pretty good shape overall. Safety is probably the most obvious concern, and I think we could find a decent safety in FA. We could use another CB for when Grimes retires too, but can wait a year on that if needed. I always think we should be addressing the d-line as the games are won in the trenches, so if a good pass rusher is available in FA or when we pick, we need to draft them.
You don't draft a center or RT in the first round, or even the second usually. Unless it's a premier guy like Frederick from dallas. You're almost never using the 18th pick on a center and they aren't drafting a LT, LG or RG. 

I agree about signing some more lineman but I want a young dynamic playmaker in the draft. They already have 3 pups on the line. 

 
It just feels like they need an infusion of talent on the offensive line after the last few games of the season.  This is an awful draft to need linemen though.  The top rated tackle may even be available when the Bucs pick. 

It's a great draft to need a RB though.  This could just be hyperbole, but it might be one of the best RB drafts ever.  Fournette, Cook, McCaffrey, Kamara, Chubb could all be first round picks in the right draft, but they'll likely be pushed down because of the depth.  Even the kid from Ohio State, Samuel, as a hybrid player.  Foreman from Texas if he declares.  Several other highly rated players I know nothing about.  It doesn't make sense to me to use a first rounder in a draft this deep at that position.

Throw some cash at Alson and grab some more defense in the first round.  That 18-20 spot is a good area to look at one of the top rated safeties or a pass rusher.  Some defensive or offensive line beef in round 2 and I'd imagine one of these backs is still available in the 3rd.

I effing hate talking draft in December.  Another year discussing the draft and free agency instead of playoff games.

 
It just feels like they need an infusion of talent on the offensive line after the last few games of the season.  This is an awful draft to need linemen though.  The top rated tackle may even be available when the Bucs pick. 

It's a great draft to need a RB though.  This could just be hyperbole, but it might be one of the best RB drafts ever.  Fournette, Cook, McCaffrey, Kamara, Chubb could all be first round picks in the right draft, but they'll likely be pushed down because of the depth.  Even the kid from Ohio State, Samuel, as a hybrid player.  Foreman from Texas if he declares.  Several other highly rated players I know nothing about.  It doesn't make sense to me to use a first rounder in a draft this deep at that position.

Throw some cash at Alson and grab some more defense in the first round.  That 18-20 spot is a good area to look at one of the top rated safeties or a pass rusher.  Some defensive or offensive line beef in round 2 and I'd imagine one of these backs is still available in the 3rd.

I effing hate talking draft in December.  Another year discussing the draft and free agency instead of playoff games.
It's a Bucs Life 

 
You don't draft a center or RT in the first round, or even the second usually. Unless it's a premier guy like Frederick from dallas. You're almost never using the 18th pick on a center and they aren't drafting a LT, LG or RG. 

I agree about signing some more lineman but I want a young dynamic playmaker in the draft. They already have 3 pups on the line. 
Wouldn't want a C in the 1st round, which is why I was saying look for one in the mid rounds (2nd-4th). In regards to a Tackle, I was talking about a LT rather than a RT. If we think there is a good LT prospect available when we pick, we should take them and slide D Smith over to either RT or OG. 

I definitely want a playmaking receiver in the draft too. I think a guy like John Ross would be exactly what we need. Fast and can make plays.

 
Ross was on my radar too after seeing him in a mock, but he looked tiny and soft against Alabama. 

Thank you for a winning season, Bucs. I predicted 8-8, so I can't be too disappointed with the result, but the playoffs were there for the taking with a win against the Saints. 

Its pretty obvious to me where the glaring needs are. Jameis needs multiple weapons pronto. 

What do you do with Aguayo? Just hope he improves? I guess you have to bite the bullet for one more year. He can't make anything outside of 40 yards, and that's just unacceptable in the NFL. 

Licht needs to hit on a late pick or two to make up for that disaster. 

 
Huge for this defense. The guys obviously bought in and picked it up in the second half of the year.

All offseasons are important, but this one is paramount. Take advantage of the current cap space before the young stars need extensions. 

 

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