Offense
The pressure is now on for quarterback Chris Simms. There is no more backup plan or insurance in case he fails. He is the man and it is expected that he will answer the call. But for all the pressure, he is in an enviable position among quarterbacks with a set of dangerous receivers and a workhorse back.
The most impressive thing about Carnell Williams last year was his work rate out of the gate. He was carrying the ball 30+ times in the first few games of the season. An injury stunted what could have been an 1800yd season. There were worries, though, about the workload he got. Jon Gruden would be wise to limit his carries to 20-25 per game.
Third year WR Michael Clayton may be the key to the offense. He was unbelievable as a rookie and often showed flashes of dominance.
The offensive line has been considered a weak link the past couple of years. The group is still not overly strong, but they seem to be coming around. Having Williams as their back is only helping their case.
Defense
Is age finally catching up with the group that terrorized offenses over a five-year span? The recent re-signing of CB Ronde Barber is a good move, but the mystique, and the original players, have passed their primes.
To begin with, talented young secondary coach Mike Tomlin departed to become defensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings. He is considered one of the better young defensive minds in football.
On the line, NT Anthony McFarland has stalled a bit. During his first couple of seasons he was looked at as a potentially more dominating force than Warren Sapp. Although McFarland is solid, he has by no means reached that plateau. Simeon Rice was the most feared DE in football a couple of years ago but has also been less effective as of late. His incredible explosion off the line seems to have slowed, and he is too small to overpower most LTs.
Derrick Brooks is no spring chicken either. Will he be able to carry a defense for much longer?
The secondary looks to be in good shape. Barber and Brian Kelly make a formidable CB tandem and S Will Allen is emerging.
Synopsis
Will Simms thrive as "the man?" Will Carnell Williams wear down or become a top-3 back? Will Michael Clayton become as great as everyone expected? Can the new wave of talent on defense pick up where the legends left off? There are just a few too many questions here. Although I like Simms and love Williams, I am afraid the Bucs may underachieve once again. I see an 8-8 mark and no threat to Carolina.
