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Surprising Bucs Cuts
Q: Do you see the Bucs signing a player that was released? Maybe a DT since they released Gibson and now have Damian Gregory as their backup? Were you surprised by any of the cuts made? - Frankie Cabano, Tampa
A: Was a little surprised by the decision to cut Gibson. Leaves them a little small, I think. They may add a DT. They'll always be making moves.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Alstott's Role
Q: How will Alstott fit into the offense this year, and what type of numbers do you expect him to put up for the season? Is his past injury giving him any problems that may reduce his performance this season? -- Nate Hatrdy
A: Look for Mike to do what he's always done - carry the ball in short-yardage and goal line situations during the first three quarters and a lot in the fourth quarter when the Bucs are ahead.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Clayton's Playing Time
Q: How has Michael Clayton looked in camp, and what are his chances being a starter? -- Nathaniel Wright, Cleveland
A: Clayton has looked very good. He's a bit raw and he won't start ahead of Tim Brown but he'll play a lot.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Brooks' Future
Q: What is the future with Derrick Brooks? I heard that this may be his last year with the Bucs because he is due to make over $9 million next year and unless he takes a massive pay cut we will not be able to afford him. I understand Ian Gold will replace him if that may be the case, but can you really replace the fans' ''favorite player?'' -- Thomas A. Posse, Jacksonville
A: Gold is best suited to play Brooks position but Brooks is worth every penny of the $9 million he's owed next year. Can't see him being let go. They may re-work his deal to create some cap space but I can't imagine they'll dump; him. This is not Warren Sapp or John Lynch. Brooks has plenty left to give.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Quarles' Recovery
Q: If memory serves correct, last year's game against 49ers was the first full game back for Quarles, and the Bucs defense didn't look so good that day. With Quarles not having played a down this preseason, is there any concern about the middle LB position? I think his backup is a rookie. Can a rookie really be expected to play this critical position? How's Nate Webster doing with the Bengals? - Saba Sharifi, Boston
Q: Quarles' backup is veteran Jeff Gooch. You make a good point, though, about Shelton struggling the first game back. I can't imagine him being too sharp. Of course, the Bucs haven't really missed him here in the preseason much.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Kicking Problems
Q: Morten Anderson will probably get released. Do you think the Bucs will sign him as their kicker since Gramatica is struggling? Should they? - Frank Cabano, Tampa
A: I think they'll consider it but pass, figuring that Gramatica still has more upside. It's all about Martin and his problems and what the Bucs are planning to do about it.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Will Struggle To Stop Run
Q: Do you think the Bucs defense will be tough enough for the type of teams they will be facing, especially on the D-line? Most of the teams in our division are going to be strong running teams. Can we stop the run? - Larry Wright, Riverdale, Ga.
A: Larry, I think stopping the run is the one area where this defense will struggle. Given that, it's hard to say how they'll do overall. I really think the defense will be strong in general but if I'm Atlanta, I'm running T.J. Duckett right at them until they prove they can stop him. Same if I'm New Orleans with Deuce McAllister and Carolina with Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Starting Defense
Q: As of today who do you see as the starting defensive unit? There have been a few injuries and I wonder what the lineup will look like against Washington. -- Carlos Rivera, Hempstead, N.Y.
A: Spires at LDE, McFarland at UT, Darby splitting time with Oliver Gibson at nose, Rice at RDE, Gold, Quarles and Brooks at LB, Barber and Kelly at CB, Smith and Phillips at S. Mario Edwards will be the nickel corner.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Dewayne White Report
Q: I live in New York and have not been able to see any of the preseason games. Could you let me know how Dewayne White is playing? I was reading a lot of good things about him for a while, but nothing recent. -- Chip Black, New York City
A: Dewayne has struggled with consistency the last couple of weeks. It's beginning to look like he'll back up Greg Spires at left end. It's too bad, because the Bucs were ready to make him the starter and maybe let Spires go. He'll be fine in time, I'm sure. He's a good player and he'll get plenty of work.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Finding Offensive Talent
Q: I'm originally from Cocoa, an adamant Bucs fan, and I was just wondering why they can't have as good of talent scouting on offense as well as defense. They always find a nice diamond in the rough on defense but never on offense. Especially the offensive line. They have to go out and sign aging veterans. -- David L. Ferguson, Corpus Christi, Texas
A: Good offensive line talent is very hard to find. There aren't too many teams boasting of having a great line. And I'm not so sure that Cosey Coleman, Kenyatta Walker and Sean Mahan are all that bad. I really think Coleman and Walker are solid. You're right about the penchant for finding better talent on defense, though. And part of the reason for that is the fact those coaches and their system have been in place for years and the Bucs scouts know precisely the kind of players they need to fit it. That hasn't been the case on offense. Every time they change offensive coordinators, the system changes. And when the system changes, the needs change. That's why a player drafted or signed as a free agent for one scheme may not work in another. The Bucs have been on a bad cycle there for a while now but hopefully, with Gruden, they'll find some consistency.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
King Update
Q: For Bucs fans who don't get all the news, is Shaun King out of football? If not, where is he now playing? If he is out of football, doing what? -- Bill Arnett, Arcata, Calif.
A: Shaun King has signed on with new coach Denny Green in Arizona, where he is likely to be a backup to Josh McCown.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Health The Key For Lee
Q: Charles Lee was looking like a star last year. Will he get a chance to shine this year? - Tim Graves, Hailey, Ind.
A: Tim, if he gets healthy he will.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Playing Hardball
Q: What can Tampa Bay hope to accomplish leaving the McCardell issue unresolved? It takes away from the team's performance on the field and ultimately serves as a distraction. Why has this, especially when the receiver balks at the notion of returning to Tampa, remained an issue? - Jon Mark Hamilton, Charlotte, N.C.
A: Wish I had an answer for you. Bucs won't say why they're taking such a hard stance. My guess is they're trying to make an example of Keenan and that they don't think he's worth any more than the $2.5 million he's supposed to get. And I'm not sure he'll make all that much of a difference. He's a good player but I'm not sure he's a difference maker. He's not in that class.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Feel Set On Defensive Line
Q: Do you think the Bucs would like to take a look at Tony Brackens, or is the feeling that he is more on the decline? I think the Bucs will be solid on the line next year, but a veteran with his ''feel'' for the game and playing in Florida would still be a nice pickup. Thanks always and keep giving the readers what they want to know!! - Ben Shaw, Clarksville, Tenn.
A: If Brackens could catch passes or pass block, he'd be a lot more attractive to the Bucs at this point. They think they are well set on the DL, especially on the pass rush. Brackens is known for his pass rushing skills, but I don't see the Bucs bringing him in at this point. If he was a 320-pound run stuffer, he'd have a better chance.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Trick Plays In The Book?
Q: I can't remember the last time I saw a fake punt, field goal, flea-flicker or someone else throwing the rock besides the QB. Do you think deception is something the Bucs will add to the playbook? - Kevin Dixon, Sarasota
A: Kevin, their idea of deception is lining up Warren Sapp at tight end and throwing to him. They'll probably try that with somebody else this year and they do have some fakes in their playbook. You could see one or two during the season.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Cover 2 No Mystery
Q: My belief is that the Cover 2 defense is no longer a mystery to opposing offenses. What, if anything, have you seen Kiffin change in the Cover 2 scheme to keep it a viable force in the NFL? It seems that all an opposing team has to do is establish the run, and we're done. - Mike Gray, Gulfport, Miss.
A: The Cover 2 defense doesn't appear to have lost any of its appeal. In fact, more and more teams are adopting the Buc scheme. The Bucs will be a difficult team to beat through the air in 2004, but their run defense may be vulnerable. Power backs have given this undersized defense problems in the past. You're better off running in between the tackles against Tampa Bay because they have too much quickness to run wide.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Bad Offseason For Dolphins
Q: Why are my beloved Dolphins having such a terrible offseason? Do you think they could trade for, let's say, Travis Henry or another elite tailback? -- Robert Fransen, New Port Richey
A: What an offseason for the Fish. Very little has gone right and Wannstedt's days appear numbered. Travis Henry would be an excellent addition, taking some pressure off the passing game, and he'll probably be traded by Buffalo within a year. Miami will have to win a bidding war for Henry's services and they don't appear to have a lot of bargaining chips at this point.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Can Graham, White Make The Cut?
Q: Thank God Alstott is back. I hope his neck holds up. But my question concerns Earnest Graham and Jamel White. I am very fond of how these two play and I would really like to know if you see these guys making the team. I think they are definite sleepers and better yet unnoticed in the NFL, but could be sleeping giants just waking up. - William Carden, Tampa
A: William, I think White will make the team as a third-down back. Not sure about Graham. He's versatile, which helps, and the Bucs will need an extra back for the first three games when Michael Pittman will be serving his suspension.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
A Weighty Consideration
Q: Do you think Coach Gruden should add more weight to the blocking sleds so that the ''offensive'' line can learn to maintain their blocks? - Gregory Donoghue, Bradenton
A: Greg, not a bad idea.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Gibson Signing An Interesting One
Q: Roy, the Bucs signed Darrell Russell, who did not work out, and now they have signed a 32-yeard-old DT, Oliver Gibson, to plug the middle. Do you think the Bucs wished now they would have tried harder to sign Warren Sapp? This is telling me that Darby, Wyms or McFarland can't replace Sapp. What is your take on this? Thanks, Roy. - Donna Spindola, Wellington
A: Donna, I too found the signing of Gibson interesting. I plan on writing a story about it for Monday's paper. Hopefully I'll find out what it is they're thinking.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Experience Counts In A Backup QB
Q: Brad Johnson is a right-handed quarterback. Do you think that Brian Griese would have an edge over Chris Simms as No. 2, or does that not matter? - Scott Hay, Lakeland
A: Scott, I think Brian Griese has an edge over Simms because he's more experienced, not because he's right-handed.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Alstott Rumors Unfounded
Q: I heard a rumor that Alstott would be released prior to the season start to save cap room. Is there any merit to this? Do I have to order another jersey this year? - Cathy Moore, Merrimack, N.H.
A: Cathy, none.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
No McCardell Trade Talks
Q: I've seen and heard rumors about other teams such as Miami interested in acquiring Keenan McCardell. Is there anything going around One Buc Place that would indicate a possible move? If so, what are the Buccaneers looking for in return? -- Ben Shaw, Clarksville, Tenn.
Q: Talked with GM Bruce Allen today and he said NO team has called to discuss a trade for Keenan McCardell. Keep in mind that McCardell will want the same $4.4 million from any team he's with and nobody has that kind of cash available at this time of year.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Gruden-Allen Approaches Toward Building Team
Q: Hey guys, I've heard a lot of people complain about Gruden and Allen. Mostly about the free agents and the ''revolving door'' theory. Wouldn't you agree that after many winning seasons in Oakland and a Super Bowl championship in Tampa that Gruden AND Allen know what they're doing? So they added players with age. You can always replace old players with younger free agents. I believe that when you're a losing team, you can afford to build your team through the draft. But when you compete for a Super Bowl each year, you go with what will get you there because, let's face it, Tampa fans are now spoiled and anything less than the playoffs this year and the fans will be calling for Gruden's head. - Ryan Clark, Tampa
A: We've heard the same complaints and some of the are valid. Both the Bucs - led by Gruden - and the Raiders - led by Allen - fell off the map last year. Let's see what happens. A lot of the people griping are made because Rich McKay is gone. That's valid. He did a heck of a job building the Bucs into contenders and probably didn't have to go. Allen has another approach. Before we say one is better than the other, let's see if both work or not.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs' Strength
Q: What has the coaching staff done to upgrade the strength department of the Bucs' D-line? Late in the fourth quarter last year (both Panther games/Packers), they showed speed, but no strength. But the opposing line showed less speed, but was able to collapse the Bucs' O-line. What is the general feeling of if these issues have been addressed as a coaching staff? Or have you guys overheard any talk of these things in the locker room? -- Cortney Edwards, San Antonio, Texas
A: Haven't heard much about what they've done to get stronger. All I know is they feel they have a great strength coach in Garrett Giemont. If he does his job, strength shouldn't be a problem.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
On McCardell, Losing
Q: What do you think the Bucs should do with Keenan McKardell? Also, what/how do you think another losing record would affect this franchise, Gruden and Allen? Lastly, do you believe Gruden and Co. will be active in signing available athletes throughout the begining of the season? -- Terrence Trent, Atlanta
A: I think the Bucs are doing the right thing with Keenan. He'll report eventually. Another losing season won't change much with Allen and Gruden. By hiring Allen, Gruden bought himself another three years as head coach - no matter what. This team will always be looking to sign available athletes.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Flying Under Radar
Q: After reading all the so-called experts in the new football mags, they all say the same thing - that the Bucs will finish third at best in the NFC South. I know with the holdout of McCardell and some of the other setbacks in camp, I think they are a much better all-around team from last year and do have a shot at a Super Bowl run. So why does everyone think they are out of gas before they even start the car? I will miss Warren Sapp and John Lynch as leaders, but someone will step up and grab the skull by the crossbones and take the lead. What do you think? -- Tony Sicari, Douglas, Ga.
A: The Bucs are flying well under the NFC radar this summer and like most teams, they have their share of question marks. If key players remain healthy, Tampa Bay has a good chance to make the playoffs, but the team is old and veteran players are more prone to injury. The lack of premium draft choices the past few years is starting to take its toll and quality depth is a festering problem, especially young depth.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Injuries To Older Players
Q: Good day Roy. Help me out. Am I the only one to notice the Bucs are suffering from some extensive injuries before the season? Also, most of the injuries are these "vets" who are supposed to "save the day." Would it be possible that Gruden has done this to himself, quite possibly running these athletes into the ground, forcing this competitive atmosphere to resemble season-playing attitudes? Despite all the new additions on offense, I predict the defense will be the dominant force and closely match the offense in scoring. Your views? -- Terrence Trent, Atlanta
Q: You are certainly not the only one to notice the rash of injuries that have hit the Bucs. We were in the media have been keeping a close eye on them. All seem to be typical early-camp things like hamstrings and bruises, but there are a significant number of them. I don’t think they are the result of Gruden’s intense practice schedule, but rather a result of the age of the players. It’s mostly the older guys going down, so the Bucs may have hurt themselves by loading up with so many vets. As for your prediction, I agree that the defense will be this team’s strength. The running game should be pretty good, too, but I’m not sure about the passing game or the special teams.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
O'Dwyer Injury
Q: With the injury to O'Dwyer, any chance the Bucs will take a look at Pete Kendall, the C/G that was recently cut from the Cardinals? - Ron, Fort Myers
A: I don't see that happening just yet. The Bucs have plenty of depth along their offensive front, including formers starting right guards Jason Whittle and Cosey Coleman.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Brown A Possibility
Q: Now that the Raiders cut Tim Brown, do you think it's possible the Bucs will sign him, since there seem to be more and more questions with the passing game? - Chris Cline, Marion, Ill.
A: Yes, Chris, don't be surprised if they sign him in the next day or two.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Farmer Talk
Q: What do you think of Danny Farmer? Tall wide out when he played with UCLA with good hands. How does he look in camp and can he fill the Jurevicius role on the team? If he's given a chance maybe Gruden can make better use of him than when he played with the Bengals. What about any of the other FA WR pickups the Bucs made in the offseason that you never hear about? Are any of them standing out? Thanks. - Scott Roiz, Tampa
A: Scott, the Bucs seem pretty happy with Bill Schroeder and Edell Shepherd, but they haven't talked about much about anyone else. Farmer has a shot at making the team and making an impact but he has to be at his best. He'll need to shine in the preseason games.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Casey Cramer
Q: How does Casey Cramer look early on? Will they be playing him at tight end or H-Back? -- Mike Ribero, Palo Alto, Calif.
A: Still too early to make a judgment on how he looks. He'll play mostly H-back if he makes the team.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Never Had Chance With George
Q: How has your summer been, Roy? I was interested in the release of Eddie George, and the inquiry of Gruden. If George was actually signed, who would be cut? Would Pittman's spot be in jeopardy? Surely a three-game suspension is not much to panic over. Lastly, do you think Gruden sees Pittman as an asset to the offense? - Terrence Trent, Atlanta
A: Terrence, I had a relaxing summer, thankfully, and thanks for asking. As for George, I knew the Bucs would express interest, but only because Gruden truly wants every player that's available. I also knew they wouldn't get him because A) they couldn't afford him and B) they would never be able to work out a system of carries that made George, Pittman and Garner happy.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Kicking Worries
Q: Gramatica was awful last year. He also can't kick off deep. I know the Bucs have invested a third-round draft pick and cap money in Gramatica. Why not bring in some serious competition? - Jack Karako, Coral Springs
A: Jack, I've been asking that same question for two years. My guess is that they don't want to waste a roster spot on a kicking specialist.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Darby And Wyms At NG
Q: With Darrell Russell being cut, does that open the nose tackle job for any more competition, or will it be Darby or Wyms? - Joseph White, Port Charlotte
A: Looks like Darby and Wyms to me, Joseph. But I wouldn't be surprised if McFarland goes back there at some point and Wyms takes over at under tackle.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Trade McCardell?
Q: Do you think the Bucs would consider trading McCardell for a younger, unproven WR like Kelley Washington in Cincy? The Bengals would get another Pro Bowler to go along with Chad Johnson and give QB Carson Palmer some great targets. Meanwhile, the Bucs would get another tall, fast young WR to go with Clayton and have the depth to let Washington develop. Can you see Simms, Clayton and Washington in a few years? - Barrett McIver, Tampa
A: Barrett, I think the Bucs would consider that trade, but I doubt the Bengals would.
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Roy Cummings
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Strike Gold
Q: If Ian Gold can remain healthy, I feel like his signing will go under the radar similarly as Simeon Rice's did with minimal public attention, but noticable on-field production. He knows how to tackle, he gets to the QB, and best of all, he will turn 26 right before the season starts. Losing Sapp and Lynch on defense hurts, but I think it's a matter of time before Gold's name is mentioned as a key figure on this current staff. Do you think this signing is bigger than it's getting recognition for? Thanks again! -- Frank Stazzone, Long Island
A: Signing Gold was a savvy move, if he comes back to full speed following his off-season surgery. Down the line, don't be surprised if his acquisition provides the Bucs with the flexibility to play hardball with Derrick Brooks. Gold's speed makes him a natural for this defense and he fits the competitive mold Gruden and Kiffin demand.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Pursuit Of Gardner
Q: Hello, I'm from the Tampa area stationed in Grand Forks AFB, N.D., and have been a Bucs fan since the days of John McKay. My question is since Darrell Russell isnt going to be a Buc, will the Bucs go for Darryl Gardner? If so what kind of impact will that make to the D-Line rotation? -- Anthony Everhart, Grand Forks AFB, N.D.
Q: Gardner is a remote possibility, but at this point the Bucs don't feel a desperate need to upgrade at NT. They will let Darby and Wyms duke it out in training camp, with the belief either can do an adequate job of tying up blockers and plugging the middle. Dana Stubblefield may have gotten a look before his documented problem with steroids.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Griese Impresses
Q: How is Brian Griese doing? I thought that he would solve the problem here in Miami, but I was wrong. I felt that we should have given him another chance in camp this year but the Bucs grabbed him fast. Hes a smart guy and throws a nice ball but he has to work on his mobility and holding onto the ball. I was sorry to see him go. I hope he stays healthy so he can do well. - Elliott Zvi, Miami
A: Griese has made a favorable impression on the coaching staff and Gruden likes Griese's intelligence. His lack of mobility is a concern, but if Brad Johnson should tweak an ankle, Griese is likely to get the call in Tampa ahead of young Chris Simms. He should definitely make the team out of training camp.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs Predictions
Q: Most professionals in your field seem to think that the Bucs have not improved this offseason. I see it a bit differently. What is your take on the Bucs overall and what is your prediction for wins and losses this year? Thank you. - Dirk Smith, Cape Coral
A: The magazines have not been kind to the Bucs this summer, but Jon Gruden loves the idea of laying in the weeds instead of being the hunted. My early prediction is 9-7 and an NFL playoff slot, but this is a difficult team to handicap. Never have the Bucs been so vulnerable to the key injury, but Gruden may have enough to make one more run.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
Bucs' Revolving Door
Q: Ira and Roy, it seems to me this new regime is intent on bringing in older veteran players (ala George Allen) on a regular basis. Ian Gold was a great pick-up providing his knee is sound but he could be defensive player of the year in 2004 and they still won't pay his 9.6 million dollar roster bonus in 2005. Allen and Gruden are going to turn this franchise into one big revolving door. There will be no cohesiveness and certainly no fan/player identification. I suspect we will be a team capable of beating anybody on "any given Sunday" but not a true super bowl threat. This requires teamwork and chemistry. We'll be known as the Tampa Bay Bandaids. Your thoughts? - Alan Moore, Greeley, Colorado
A: Alan: There's a new way of doing business in Tampa, more short-sighted to be sure. We won't be able to make a fair judgment until the end of the season. You are correct on one key point -- the roster will be churned over annually, except for the core players. Don't forget, it was GM Bruce Allen's dad, George, who coined the phrase ''the future is now,'' and Bruce brings that attitude to the Bucs, for better or worse.
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Ira Kaufman
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Tampa Tribune
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