Kevin_ODonnell's Blog

Every training camp starts with most eye's zeroing in on Jon Gruden's Offense. Jeff Garcia is Gruden's newest QB toy, but success this season will be measured by the defense. Tampa Bay's first goal is and has to be restoring their defensive reputation. In just one year the Monte Kiffin's Krewe fell from the best in the league to 17th. The main reason for it starts up front. The Bucs defensive line couldn't supply consistent pressure. They ranked 30th in the league in sacks which impacted the secondary. Tampa Bay came away with a meager 11 interceptions, 27th in the league.

The key for a return to prominence lies in the interior line... The outside is covered with Simeon Rice, Gaines Adams and Greg Spires, but who wins the job next to Chris Hovan will dictate if the Bucs win the defensive battle. Ellis Wyms hasn't shown the ability to stay healthy and Jovan Haye is unproven. If the Bucs can't generate atleast 40 sacks this season, an improvement of 15 from a year ago. This season will likely reflect last year's finish of 4-12. That would ultimately mean the end of Jon Gruden.