Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2009 Preview

In 2008 after 12 weeks the Buccaneers were 9 and 3 and looked like they were headed to the playoffs for the second straight season. But they lost the last four games to finish at 9 and 7 and missed the playoffs. The disastrous finish led to the firing of Head Coach Jon Gruden and the promotion of defensive back coach Raheem Morris to Head Coach. But that was not the only changes made by the Buccaneers in the off-season many familiar faces including linebacker Derrick Brooks, running back Warrick Dunn and wide receiver Joey Galloway were also let go during the off-season. With so many changes it is anyone's guess how good Tampa Bay will be in 2009.

The biggest question facing the Buccaneers in 2009 is who will be the starting quarterback. With the departure of Jeff Garcia, free agent Byron Leftwich and first round draft choice Josh Freeman will battle it out in training camp. Early indications are that it will be Leftwich. Regardless of who throws the ball Antonio Bryant the teams leading receiver in 2008 will be there to catch it. He will be joined by tight end Kellen Winslow Jr who was brought in from the Cleveland Browns via trade. The Buccaneers running attack could be one of the leagues best with Carnell Williams, Earnest Graham and free agent pickup Derrick Ward. If all three can remain healthy and content sharing the running duties, the Buccaneers could have a very potent rushing attack in 2009.

The Buccaneers defense which helped them win a Super Bowl in 2002 is long since gone with only Rhonde Barber remaining. New Head Coach Raheem Morris is looking to restore the defense to its former glory and has young core group of players to rely on including Barrett Ruud at linebacker. Look for second year cornerback Aqib Talib to build on the success he had in his rookie season and blossom in to one of the defensive backs in the game. Defensive end Gaines Adams who has improved in each of the past two seasons will be the leader on the defensive line. This very talented and young group of defenders could become a force to be reckoned with in 2009.

The Buccaneers could be a very tough team in 2009 and should be a playoff contender but the question mark at quarterback and a relatively young defense will prevent them from reaching the playoffs. Look for Tampa Bay to finish a strong third in the tough NFC South with a 9 and 7 record.