Bucs Give Generously In 16-23 Loss

Well, what can you say about that game? I'll do a full game review tomorrow, but it's clear which team is better of the two. The Bucs dominated the Lions in all but the most important stat: the score. A blocked punt, a bad penalty that led to a missed field goal, a fumble on a hand off during an impressive drive, and another fumble at the Center-QB exchange when it's first and goal at the one all conspired to doom the Bucs.

Quite frankly, if not for actually losing this game, I would be thoroughly impressed with what the Bucs did on offense. The defense was up and down, and allowed too much time for Kitna to throw, and allowed too many yards on the ground. Despite that, the Bucs should have thrashed the Lions. Had they not had those 4 key miscues, the Bucs likely would have scored in the 30's and eliminated half of the Lion's scoring. Unfortunately, they gave away a game they should have won, and now must face a very tough Jags team, which will, thankfully, be coming off of a Monday Night Football game (tonight versus the Colts). Hopefully they'll come in a little sluggish and the Bucs can get another tough win and take care of Arizona the following week and enjoy the BYE week.

Graham was impressive in this game, falling just 9 yards shy of 200 all-purpose yards. Bennett was highly limited in his action, but, on just one play, he showed his homerun capability when he burst straight down the middle of the field and nearly made it to the endzone. It's unfortunate that he didn't make it, because then the fumble would not have happened, and the Bucs would likely have won that game.

Ugh, is about all I can say.