Panthers Keys For Success
1. Establish a running game. Despite having quality backs in DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams the offense hasn't been able to mount a dependable ground game. Last chance, guys: Running the back is imperative to have any success when passing.
Here's the plan: Challenge the Bucs' midsection by having Foster or Williams follow fullback Brad Hoover and center Justin Hartwig as they isolate on linebacker Barrett Ruud. Once Rudd is out of the way, both backs have the quickness to break to the outside and the speed to turn the corner against linebackers Derrick Brooks and Cato June.
2. Get the ball to Steve Smith. No-brainer, huh? Smith might be the NFL's most explosive player. Trouble is, the team's quarterback quagmire turned this stud into a dud. Offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson must devise ways for quarterback Matt Moore to use Smith to challenge the secondary deep downfield.
This scheme goes hand-in-hand with Key No. 1, because an effective ground game would draw defenders closer to the line of scrimmage. It also would give Smith more single-coverage opportunities. Bucs defensive backs are good, but they can't stop Smith in one on one.
3. Deny the deep pass. It all begins up front, especially with standout defensive linemen Mike Rucker, Kris Jenkins and Julius Peppers. Add to the mix Jon Beason, a rookie sensation at middle linebacker. This crew should be able to slug it out with the Bucs but must not get knocked aside by a successful inside running game. They also can't get rendered ineffective by quarterback Jeff Garcia's skillful use of short passes.
Garcia will use play-action to find opportunities to throw to the deep corner to wideout Joey Galloway. Cornerbacks Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble cannot come up too quickly in run support. Neither can safeties Deke Cooper and Chris Harris fill too hard, because that would leave the corners in single coverage. If Garcia gets defenders to bite, he'll pick the Panthers apart.
Buccaneers Keys For Success
1. Pressure the quarterback. Matt Moore should be used to this by now, but attacking him remains the first and best option. Opponents know he lacks experience and mobility, and coaches will have defensive linemen Kevin Carter, Gaines Adams and Greg White bring outside pressure. Tackles Chris Hovan and Jovan Haye will collapse the pocket up the middle and occupy blockers so the ends can converge on Moore. The goal? Keep Moore from getting time to find playmaking wideout Steve Smith. Defenders also must remember that despite being an undrafted rookie Moore makes good decisions and doesn't force throws.
2. Control the clock. Earnest Graham has been key in replacing injured featured back Carnell Williams. He might not be "Cadillac" but he is a luxury. This week's plan is simple: Let Graham run up the middle behind center John Wade and guards Arron Sears and Davin Joseph. Quarterback Jeff Garcia will mix Graham's runs and short-to-intermediate passes in the methodical West Coast scheme. Of course the team wants to score; but it also wants to win time of possession and keep Smith off the field as much as possible.
3. Spread the ball around. Coach Jon Gruden acquired Garcia to lead the Bucs to the playoffs. He's done it, sore back and all, using his skills to elude pass rushers and expertly direct the West Coast offense. The team's cast of receivers and running backs give Garcia plenty of options. These options will keep the Bucs from concentrating on Graham and top wideout Joey Galloway.
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