SB Nation - Torrie Cox

Grading out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Defense

Buc Wild — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 03:00:11 -0000

Looking back to Thursday's game, it's hard to imagine the way our defense played led to a loss. Granted, allowing 10 points is not bad, but a loss is a loss, or so I've been told. Let's take a gander at each of the units/positions on defense and how they fared.

Defensive Line

To me, this has been the biggest surprise. With a highly touted 3rd year player (Gaines Adams), some re-treads (Hovan and Sims) and Wilkerson, I don't think this group screams trouble. But after three games, they've been pretty stout against the run (though the end of the year isnt here yet) and have generated some pressure on passing downs. Adams hasn't quite made the impact I've expected, but I won't pitch a fit until the regular season comes. Wilkerson showed some nice moves and explosion on Thursday night. The big additions have been mid round picks Roy Miller and Kyle Moore. These guys not only add some depth, they have added playmaking abilities, shown in the game against the Dolphins. Chris Bradwell continues to show up. An interception and a forced fumble were generated by the DL, along with 4 sacks (only one by the first string). Grade: B

Linebackers

A mixed bag on Thursday night. Against the run they appeared to flow to the ball, and make some nice plays. Able to read and react. Against the pass, there a bit iffy. When picking up tight ends or running backs in man to man, they seem to use the trail technique, which is fine. But in zone, they appear lost. Not a good sign. Mystery man Barrett Ruud has yet to do anything in preseason. Count me as concerned. Geno Hayes has stepped up, and I'll admit, as an FSU fan, I'm happy to see him do well, but he was my pick to start all along once we let 55 go. Flip and Hayward are nice players at WLB, but I think Hayes is the right guy here. Quincy Black still hasn't showed that flash that the coaches talked about. Koutouvides and McCoy played well. The touchdown pass by Pennington was a result of too much time in the pocket and getting lost in coverage. All in all, not a bad night, but room to improve Grade: B-

Defensive Backs

If you remove Torrie Cox from the equation, the secondary played pretty well. No big plays, a sack (E.J. Biggers), and though some spotty communication, no real downfield threats. When you put Torrie Cox in, it wasn't pretty. Down the field plays, a few muggings, just not a good night. It's hard to predict how our secondary will do without T-Jack and possibly without Talib. Elbert Mack will need to step up and we will most likely have to count on Cox to some degree if Talib misses game time. If this group can maintain discipline as they did most of Thursday night, should be a decent group. And thus far, Ronde Barber has stepped up. My only question? We haven't played a team with a dominant receiver yet, will have to see how we match up there. But for Thursday night, I'll take the few big plays against Cox with everyone else showing up. Grade: B-

Overall

10 points, thats all that was given up and the touchdown came after undisciplined coverage by Cox, and Pennington playing sandlot football and hitting his tight end. Our first string gave up 3 points over one half of football, and didn't allow Miami to become any kind of threat. That's a pretty darn good performance right there. All in all, 4 sacks, a pick, a forced fumble and recovery, and 10 total points. You hold the opponent to 10 points, I'll take it every week. The defense has progressed and continued to look good in preseason. Though we had 4 sacks, one was by the first team. I'd like to see a bit more pressure generated. Grade: B

Few questions answered as Bucs fall to Fins 10-6

Buc Wild — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:33:40 -0000

Thursday night was supposed to be a wrap up of everything we've seen in camp thus far. The excitement of the first home game with new coaches, getting to see the players for the first time, and settling the position battles heading into the last week of preseason. Only a few of those things were accomplished. The much publicized battles for certain positions were in full swing, but no one seemed to take control.

The game opened up and finished in some rain, with heavier rain falling in the 2nd quarter and the game even being delayed about 45 minutes due to lightning. And to be honest, the two lightining strikes were just about more exciting than anything the Bucs did on Thursday night.

The Bucs first string offense would take the field and after a nice drive to about midfield, they were stopped. Out came the punting team. Only this time, we were struck with some good fortune. The punt was blocked, but as the Fins recovered it, the Bucs were able to strip the ball and recover, giving them a new set of downs. They'd make it count, somewhat, as the drive stalled inside the 20 and led to a Nugent field goal.

The first team defense did a fantastic job of shutting down the Dolphins attack, holding them to a three and out before taking over on offense. The offense again would make their way down the field, converting some 3rd and longs to cash in another field goal to make it 6-0 Bucs.

The teams would trade punts, and Leftwich would give way to McCown after the lightning delay. McCown would get the team in field goal range, but take two sacks to knock them out of field goal range.

The only other scoring play of the half would come in the two minute drill as the Dolphins marched down the field and netted three points just before half, brining the score to 6-3 Bucs.

The first drive of the second half saw all the scoring it would take to win the game. The Dolphins would receive the kick and picking on Torrie Cox made their way down to the two yard line. The Bucs had their second string defense in at this point, but on a sandlot play, Pennington droppd back, spun around, reversed fields and found Anthony Fasano wide open in the end zone on a busted play with busted coverage. 10-6 Dolphins.

The Bucs offense tried to get in gear, but their next drive ended in a missed field goal by Nugent. He had two shots at it, made the first called back by penalty and missed the second. A third miss in three games isn't gonna bode well for Nugent.

The action slowed considerably until the 4th quarter when the back up Tampa defense forced two turnovers. Kyle Moore forced a fumble and Chris Bradwell intercepted a Chad Henne pass. The offense would slow and as Freeman tried to gain a foothold on a possibly starting job, he wasn't able to get it done. His drives were filled with misfired passes, bad protection and scrambling attempts.

The game was still within reach at 10-6 but on the Bucs last drive, Freeman went no huddle and though he moved the ball, couldnt convert a 4th and 10 to extend the drive.

A night that had the potential to set the team up for the long run ended up posing more questions than answers. The Bucs fall to 1-2 on the preseason and will have a full week of practice as they prepare for their final preseason game.

The Good - The running game. Cadillac and Graham looked great, while Ward struggled a bit. This is a huge luxury the Bucs have and it played out well last night.

The Bad - Failing to cash in on several red zone opportunities. Field goals wont get it done.

The Ugly - The quarterback battle. No one stepped up. There were no winners last night, only degrees of failure. It will be interesting to see how Morris and company approach this.

Game Preview (Preseason Game 2): Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) at Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1)

Buc Wild — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:00:13 -0000

More photos » by Steve Nesius - AP

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Training camp is over. The first game is under the belt. As we head into the second preseason game there is a lot at stake. Not only the learning and retention of new schemes and systems, but with Coach Morris stating that most of the depth chart (particularly the quarterback position) will be decided by the third preseason game, this is the last chance for players to put together solid film to be considered for any starting position. Both teams are trying to respond to a somewhat poor first outing and get headed in the right direction.

As the Bucs head up to Jacksonville to take on the Jaguars, let's take a look at the storylines of the game and a few things to watch for as the game progresses.

Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009

Time: Kickoff at 7:30 PM ET

Where: Jacksonville Municipal Stadium (Seating capacity of 67,164)

Where to Watch: In the Bay area, WFLA-TV - Channel 8 (Brighthouse/Verizon) or 508/608 in HD (Brighthouse/Verizon)

Where to Listen: 103.5 FM or WDAE 620 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jags are coming off a down season, mainly due to their inability to stop the run and the loss of half their offensive line to injuries. Their top two picks went towards offensive line in hopes of building some depth and re-establishing the run game and protection of the quarterback. After going 5-11 year, the Jags are looking to get back to being a top tier team in the AFC.

Offense

A new identity should be forming as Fred Taylor is gone, making way for Pocket Hercules aka MJD aka Maurice Jones-Drew. He will be asked to carry the load as "the guy". Backing him up is former 'Nole Greg Jones and Rashad Jennings. The wide receivers are a mainly unknown and young group, with the exception being free agent signing Torry Holt. Holt may not have the YAC ability anymore, but should be a solid possession guy. Running the show is David Garrard. After a stellar 2007 season that had the media praising him and Del Rio (for sticking with Garrard over Leftwich), 2008 was a return to Earth. A slightly better than 1:1 TD to pick ratio won't get it done this year. When Garrard gives way, we'll be treated to Todd Bouman. I think it's safe to say that the Jags need Garrard healthy and upright. The OL had a ton of injuries last year and has to remain healthy for the Jags to have a chance to win a few games this year.

Defense

The defensive unit has seen some slippage. First round pick Derrick Harvey remains an enigma, and Quentin Groves, starting left end may not have the size needed to play with his hand down. Their secondary does have playmakers in Rashean Mathis and Reggie Nelson, and while they have great ballhawking skills, must work on positiong and reading plays and avoiding the mental lapses that plagued them last year. You can run against the Jags, so look for the Bucs to exploit that. The Jags have been seen as a defensive stalwart in the past and look to get back after a slip in 2008. They were 17th in 2008 in total yards allowed, while ranking 24th against the pass and 13th against the run.

Previous Game

The Jaguars lost their first preseason game to the Dolphins in a shootout, 12-9. Jacksonville couldn't find the endzone, relying on 3 field goals for their scoring. While it's early, the turnovers (two picks, neither by Garrard) and penalties (11 for 98 yards) have to be a concern. This will be their second game and first home game. On a side note, will be interesting to see how full the stadium is. In fact, some Jacksonville media are already reporting a full blackout for all 10 home games this year. Yikes!

Top Story Lines - Jacksonville

The most notable is MJD taking over the starting role. While he always was a featured back, this time there is no Fred Taylor to help with the workload. Will he be able to withstand the touches given to him? Garrard looks to rebound, which will depend on how and if the O line can protect him. A lot of hype has been fed to Rashad Jennings, this will give a good glimpse into a potential back up to MJD. Who will catch the passes? Holt is here, but with leading receiver Matt Jones leaving, someone else needs to step up. On defense, can Nelson and company rebound from a down year? For other news on the Jags, head over to Big Cat Country.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

We find the Bucs stumbling into this week on the heels of a suspension and arrest. Getting back on the field should prove to be a good thing for the team. The Bucs will continue with the installation of the new schemes and look to make some progress on that front, as well as solidify the lineup. The rookies and young players know this may be the last chance they have to hit the field and show their worth. The first game really didn't show too much in terms of progress. If nothing else, it created some bigger questions and fueled the pessimism surrounding the team.

Defense

Coming off a better than expected performance against Tennessee, the defense looks to hold serve and continue shutting down the opposing team. The goal for this game should be consistency, particularly from week to week and then from first team to second team. The pressure on the quarterback has to be ramped up, no questions there. The secondary may also be cut in half, as T-Jack and Talib both appear ready to play, but Morris will need to find out what kind of depth we have at those positions as we know Jackson is out the first 4 games and it looks like Talib will miss a game or two. Look for Elbert Mack and Torrie Cox to try and step in to fill the voids left by Talib and T-Jack. I'd like to see some consistency from the linebacking corp also. Quincy Black needs to translate his camp hype to game performance.

Offense

There's just no good place to start here. The offensive line has to block someone and help out the running game. With Faine likely out, Mahan will be the guy again, and that doesn't bode well for the Bucs. Leftwich will get the start against his old team and looks to lock down the starting job. McCown will try to rebound from a pretty bad performance and Johnson and Freeman continue to look for playing time to show their worth. The first string tandem of Ward and Graham need to get going and this looks like the optimal time to do it. At wide receiver, we should have Clayton back, but beyond Stroughter, we have more questions than anything else. Brian Clark could claim the 3rd WR spot this week with a strong performance. It all starts up front, and while many say it takes half a season to learn the new zone blocking scheme, I'd just like to see progress.

Previous Game

The loss to Tennessee seems like a long time ago, but nonetheless, we're 0-1. The Bucs were able to limit the Titans on offense, but their inability to get anything going on the offensive side, coupled with an untimely pick 6 from Freeman cost the Bucs the game. The good news is, the team did show positive signs in the loss. A better than expected defense, and some flashes from all QB's minus McCown

Top Story Lines - Tampa Bay

From a team standpoint, the top story lines are can the offense get going, and will the defense continue. On a player basis, it's the Jackson and Talib story. Who will step in and how much will it hurt us? A fair amount of playing time and starting jobs are on the line as Morris has said and confirmed repeatedly that most of the depth chart will be decided before the first home preseason game. The QB battle should end on Saturday, witha winner declared in the next week. The pressure is on, who will step up?

Players To Watch

- Luke McCown - This may be his last viable chance at winning a starting job here (or anywhere else).

- Bryan Clark - Will he step up and claim the 3rd WR spot?

- Stylez G. White - Had an excellent first performance in the new scheme. Will need to continue it

- Elbert Mack and Torrie Cox - For reasons listed above, will need to show they can fill in when/as needed.

- Mario Urrutia - A late addition to the Bucs, he has a chance to show his size and speed will fit well with the Bucs.

Things to Watch For

- How will Leftwich do in his return to Jacksonville?

- The entire first string offense, but mainly the offensive line with the new scheme.

- Will Jacksonville's OL be able to contain the pass rush?

- How Talib, Jackson and the team handle the latest commotion

- Does Josh Johnson really have a chance at making the team?

- Will there be any fans in the seats for the game?

Injuries

It sounds like Michael Clayton will be able to go, but Jeff Faine may be out. Also mentioned as a possibly injury casualty is Gaines Adams. Will keep you posted on any other injury news.

Update: Dexter Jackson and Will Allen did not make the trip.

Prediction

Always tough to predict who wins these meaningless games, but I think Tampa and it's defense play well and the offense does enough to win. We'll call it Bucs 20 - Jags 17.

(Editor's note: This is preseason for the staff also. If there are other looks, pieces of info or segments you want, let me know. I figure a look at each team, their injuries, stat leaders, team stats, and stories on each side of the ball should work, but as always, I'm open to suggestions).

The Point After - Grading out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Defense

Buc Wild — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:45:08 -0000

We've graded out the offense after the first preseason game (can be seen here), now let's turn our heads to the defense. This is a unit that not only lost on field and locker room leaders, but guys that were counted on to make plays. We've taken some of the same players and shuffled the deck, moving them to a new spot on the field. We've asked some players to bulk up to fit the new scheme, and others to learn new moves to become the player they should have been. Let's see how the defense grades out.

Defensive Line

First String - When looking at an entire unit, the grading becomes more a function of the team than the players. The first string D line provided some good plays, but seemed inconsistent overall. Stylez G. White had a great game, and it only took a quarter to put the numbers up, going for 3 tackles, a sack and a pick. Overall, the line wasn't creating the pressure needed to wreak havoc and keep it at a 4 man rush. In his limited time, Gaines Adam didn't record anything statistically significant (no tackles or sacks). The run was shut down with a mob attack, but the Titans had plenty of time to throw. Grade: C

Second String and beyond- You could almost throw the same analysis in here as we did for the first string. The second string didn't register a sack, and only a very small amount of pressure. The running game wasn't able to get going, minus one long run by Javon Ringer. One of those mediocre efforts that will lose more games than they win. Grade: C

Linebackers

Jermaine Phillips - He did generate one tackle and one assisted tackle but overall, did exactly what I expected. His first game was largely an expirement. He showed the same flashes he did as a safety, and the same problems. Missed a few tackles where he was first to the ball carrier and rather than make a sure tackle appeared hell bent on blowing the play up. Result? He did neither. Will take some time to acclimate, but must prove to be a better tackler to succeed. Grade: C-

Quincy Black - I was as excited as anyone to see him play. Go check the boxscore, he didn't make it in there. Disappointing. For all the hype, all the talk, he didn't show up on paper, but played well on the field. Looked fluid in coverage and was able to get up the field in limited attempts. Need more film to study him in live action. Grade: C+ but should be INC

Rest of the First String - Really just Barrett Ruud. 1 assisted tackle. Have to credit him or Bates' for the run defense. The players were in the right position to shut it down. Excellent job in flowing to the ball as a team. Looked to be more of the same, in a good way. Grade: B

Second String and on - There were some fantastic plays, and some not so good plays. Geno Hayes was flying around, Adam Hayward made some good tackles, but there were plenty of missed opportunites. Guys getting stuck on blocks, not hanging in coverage. Was pleased with their effort against the run game. Grade: C+

Defensive Backs

Sabby Piscitelli - Good play on the interception. Didn't get beat deep. Looked to be in position, played the run well. Great start to 2009. His playmaking ability has always been discussed, but needs to maintain discipline in positioning and stay healthy. Grade: B+

Tanard Jackson - I'll admit, I didn't watch him too closely. Only big play involving T-Jack was a long completion to Bo Scaife with TJ in trail mode. Would like to see tighter coverage, but he gives up side and there are inherent difficulties with a safety on a tight end. Grade: C

Ronde Barber - Pretty darn pleased with his effort. Nice tackles in the backfield. Looked at home in coverage. Was able to read and react. Very positive step for Ronde in shutting the media up. Grade: B

Aqib Talib - Only big play his way was the Sabby INT and Talib was in good position. Will need to see some more time on field or more attempts his way. Grade: INC

Second String - The obvious blown coverage on the VY to Britt TD. Mack, for all his playmaking in camp, was so-so. Made a nice deflection, also lucked out on a pass attempt where he was late to get a hand up in the endzone. Torrie Cox was alright in coverage. An average effort from an average group of players. Grade: C

Overall

The defense as a unit played well, particularly against the run. The defense shut down the Titans after a fumble in our own territory and only surrendered 6 points in first half. Pass defense looked to be in good order, but pass rush was lacking. Was thinking about a B minus, but gave up 20 points (other 7 were from Freeman pick) and didn't allow run game to get going. Very solid first effortFinal Numbers: 17 allowed first downs, 7/15 (46%) on 3rd downs, 92 rushing yards, 186 passing yards (278 total), 2 sacks, 2 INT's. Overall Grade: B

So what do you think Buc's fans? How would you grade out the Bucs defense after their first game?

Cannon Shots: Friday practice over, Morris to take team out

Buc Wild — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:50:20 -0000

The early morning session for the Tampa Bay Buccaneer's is over, meaning the players are free the rest of the day, sort of. More on that later. Let's take a quick trip around the Buc's Friday morning practice.

- Buc 'Em brought you the story of Mario Urrutia being signed to the squad. Well on this first day of practice, in 2 minute drills, he caught a slant from Josh Johnson and took it to the house. He also caught passes from Leftwich over Torrie Cox and Tanard Jackson. Welcome to the team.

- An update on some injuries. Michael Clayton is still out with the hamstring injury. Antonio Bryant did make it back to practice today (more on him later). Kelly Campbell, Jeff Faine, and Angelo Crowell all missed practice, though this was expected. Some new injuries. Greg Peterson hurt his left knee again, Clifton Smith pulled up with a hammy injury, and Jeremy Trueblood hurt his back. None are expected to be major and are just part of playing the game.

- Josh Freeman and Josh Johnson did get some good reps in, but the reports are so-so. Nothing really on Johnson, which makes it seem like he's an after thought. Freeman did throw a TD pass in drills but also overthrew Stovall (all 6'5" of him) along with some other over throws. When Byron Leftwich came in to replace him in the drill, the offense started moving. Leftwich hit Bryant on some nice plays, including one where Bryant got tagged, but held on to the ball. Also made a nice one handed catch.

- McCown was again, steady but not spectacular. It's a two dog race and I'd imagine that the first game Leftwich or McCown run with the ones, and the second game they flip flop.

- The team ran a few special teams sessions, but no kickers were dressed. Just run throughs

- Raheem Morris sounded happy with how the QB's did today, and said that Freeman and Johnson were impressive. Take it for what it's worth.

- As reported yesterday, the Bucs will have Friday afternoon off. The 4:45 practice was canceled. Sounds like Morris is still planning on hitting a movie with the squad. They'll be back at it on Saturday, with two full sessions.

That will do it for Friday. The first full week of practice is in and we've escaped major injuries thus far. Keep it tuned to Buc 'Em for all your Bucs info.

Cannon Shots: Quick hits on Wednesday's morning practice for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Buc Wild — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 17:39:26 -0000

More photos » by Brian Blanco - AP

STRANGER DANGER! STRANGER DANGER!

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Wednesday morning's practice is over, after being delayed a bit by rain. All accounts had it being a slick, muddy surface they were practicing on, which may not be a bad thing. You don't always get 80 degrees and sun on game day. Couple of injury updates, some playmaking abilities on display, and one of the old-timers makes a play.

Click on over to the info after the jump

- Geno Hayes is getting to run with the ones on defense. While no one will ever be able to replace Derrick Brooks, Hayes comes from the same lineage as Brook. Undersized linebacker with great speed from Florida State. Hayes is still raw and coming off an injury, but I thought he was a bit of a steal last year, and I'll continue to think that until proven otherwise. Dominik said our deepest position was linebacker. I'm starting to believe him with Hayes, Barrett Ruud, Angelo Crowell, Jermaine Phillips, Quincy Black, Adam Heyward etc.

- Antonio Bryant, Kellen Winslow, Torrie Cox, and Angelo Crowell all sat out with injuries, though Raheem Morris said he expects Bryant and Winslow to be back tomorrow.

At the tail end of practice, Michael Clayton looked to tweak a hamstring after a touchdown catch. Dude is on fire right now. It's practice, but he's improving.

- Josh Vaughan is getting some snaps at fullback. Alot of people feel he could be squeezed out of a roster spot with four quality backs ahead of him, but depth at FB is key, and if he can pick up special teams, he may find a niche with the Bucs

- Phillips drew alot of praise from the coaches. He was challenged to be physical and to play at full speed and he did so today. I've never been worried about him being physical, it's more the wrapping up of ball carriers I'm concerned. Still early in the project though, keep it going Flip.

- Some trickery in the red zone as a reverse was run. I hear that Trueblood annihilated Stylez G. White. He's got a mean streak, if he can keep from the troublesome false start.

- Byron Leftwich was the QB of the day, looking the best. He was zipping throw around the field and threw no picks. Always a key. Luke McCown looked adequate today, and while he made no mistakes, didn't appear up to par with Leftwich. Seems he's still the leader though.

- The running game had some ups and downs. A few good runs by Ward and Clifton were the good, a few guys being hit in the backfield was the bad. The new scheme is coming along nicely though.

- Quincy Black is shaping up to be a force. If he can translate his practice play to game play, he will be a treat to watch. It'll be interesting to see how they use him throughout the game.

The team has a second practice this afternoon, weather permitting. All things are shaping up on schedule. Of course, this is just training camp. We're still facing our own guys, and alot of the time not even going first string against first string. It's always tough to read what performance in training camp means, especially for veterans. You can usually predict who will or won't make the team, but with guys like Clayton, it's tough. You know he's on the team, he's had some trials the last few years, but this training camp, he's doing everything and doing it well. Does this mean he's a 100 catch 1,400 yard guy? Maybe. You don't know until you get on the field and see it happen in live action.

As always, Buc 'Em keeping you updated on the Bucs training camp.

Tuesday Morning Links for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Buc Wild — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:23:29 -0000

One of the features I want to have on the site is a fairly regular story containing links and stories for the Bucs from around the internet. This won't be a daily feature, but will provide some quick info without you having to do any of the searching.

New Starting Nickelback - The competition looks to be between two players, Elbert Mack and Torrie Cox. A few new players could challenge for the spot since none of these players are familiar with the new 4-3 scheme. Mack should be the favorite going into camp though.

Could the Bucs surprise in 09? - A quick recap of the busy offseason for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A comparison is also made to the 2008 Atlanta Falcons with the question posed "Why can't the Bucs use a similar formula in 2009?". My answer? Maybe we can duplicate that success, but I'm not holding my breath.

Is Morris already on the hot seat? - A look at all 32 head coaches and their apparent positions on the so-called hot seat going into 2009. [Ed Note: Morris appears on the "Should Be Safe" list. Now, unless the Glazer's either have the quickest trigger finger, which we haven't seen, or are setting him up for failure, there is NO WAY Morris and company shouldn't be on the "No Worries" list. The only speculation I can offer is that the Glazer's picked up a cheap coach and GM to fill as stop gaps until a name they want (hello Mr. Cowher) decides they want to roam the sidelines again.]

USA Today recap of the off-season - Most of this info has been discussed, but there are a few good quotes from Chris Hovan both on the loss of leadership in the locker room and how he will be affected by the switch to Jim Bates' scheme.

That does it for Tuesday Morning's edition. Feel free to use the comments section to let your thoughts be known to everyone in Buc Nation.