For the second game in a row, Jon Gruden gave running back Thomas Jones a good look at running back. Thomas Jones rushed 34 times for 134 yards and 1 touchdown. I can't remember the last time a Buccaneer running back received that many carries. It's plainly obvious that Gruden is taking a close look at Jones to better decide whether or not the Bucs will resign him next year. If he continues to perform the way he has lately and is able to hang onto the ball, he has a good chance of being signed next year. Brad Johnson turned in another solid performance completing 17 of 28 passes for 237 yards. That's a completion rate of 60.7% and an 87.95 quarterback rating. Up and coming wide receiver Charles Lee led the team in receptions with 3 for 95 yards, which included a 72 yard completion. He's a big receiver with good speed and has a chance to be a good receiver for the Bucs. Keep your eyes on this kid he continues to impress. The Bucs defense had very little problems with the Texans holding them to just a field goal all game. The defensive line kept plenty of pressure on the quarterback and collected 4 sacks on the day. All this was done with Warren Sapp not playing. Shelton Quarles led the team in tackles with 8. For the second game in a row, the Bucs defense is flying to the ball and playing with a lot of confidence. Granted they haven't been playing against offensive juggernauts, but they're looking more like the defense from last year. If the Bucs are lucky enough to sneak into a wild card slot, it would be a big advantage if the defense is still playing well. Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons will be the next opponent for the Bucs. Michael Vick is back, but the rest of the Falcons are pretty banged up. Michael Vick hasn't had a good game against the Bucs ever and this weekend shouldn't be any different. I predict the Bucs will give Thomas Jones the ball a lot and play dominating defense and should handle the Falcons 24 to 9. |
