So many quarterbacks, so little certainty

So, coach Jon Gruden is sticking to his guns, saying rookie Bruce Gradkowski could still become the No. 2 quarterback. And after Gruden used Gradkowski for the entire second half against Jacksonville Saturday -- and didn't use Tim Rattay at all -- you have to believe the coach is serious.

No one knows exactly what will happen, but this much we're sure of: what a mess the Bucs' quarterback situation is. After starter Chris Simms, it's a bunch of guys with numerous imperfections. If they're not hurt (Jay Fiedler, Luke McCown), they're inexperienced. If not that, then they're just simply underwhelming (i.e.,  Rattay).

So, when Gruden says the Bucs "have a crowded house" at quarterback, he is right. They just don't have anyone who is unquestionably ready to take on the job of being the first quarterback off the bench.

Is Gradkowski ready? Is Rattay really this average? When will Fiedler ever return? And what's the plan for McCown after his knee surgery? We hear he's supposed to be ahead of schedule on his rehab, which begs the question, is anyone ever BEHIND schedule?

As you can see, it's a bit of a muddled mess. Most likely, the situation will sort itself out in time. But time is running short with the regular season fast approaching.

We at the Times are admittedly confused. So help us out: If you were the coach, what would YOU do? Comment below.

Comments

[Billy]

I would cut Rattay and save the cap room. Go with Gradkowski and Fiedler. Leave McCown on the shelf for the year.

[jobo42]

"We hear (McCown) supposed to be ahead of schedule on his rehab, which begs the question, is anyone ever BEHIND schedule?" Um, _Fiedler_ is at least a month behind schedule, which is part of the reason the Bucs are in this mess.

FWIW, I'd start the year with Simms-Rattay-Grad on the roster, McCown on IR, and Fiedler on PUP. Then, in October once Fiedler's PUP status expires, either activate Fiedler and cut Rattay, or cut Fiedler loose.

[Buc-N-Nutz]

Gradkowski needed the reality check, but now that he knows how high the bar is, I think he is the best bet for #2 until Fiedler is back. However, as long as they keep 67 "Kenyatta out Walkin" on the team they better keep the whole house, cause none of them will last more than 3 to 4 games of poundings from the tight ends they'll be facing.

[Buc-N-Nutz]

Gradkowski needed the reality check, but now that he knows how high the bar is, I think he is the best bet for #2 until Fiedler is back. However, as long as they keep 67 "Kenyatta out Walkin" on the team they better keep the whole house, cause none of them will last more than 3 to 4 games of poundings from the defensive ends they'll be facing.

[mike marston]

Run the WISHBONE.

Three very good running backs.

Pittman and Williams leading the way for Alstott.

Better yet Pittman and Alstott leading the way for Williams.

Maybe Alstott and Williams leading the way for Pittman.

Very good tight ends and a couple of great wide outs. I think the Bucs have both of these too.

Hmmmn, 5-6 yards a carry could be possible in the second half.
The Wishbone is designed to wear out a defense so that during the second half the yardage racks up against a physical beat defense.

Google Wishbone offense.

PLEASE RUNS THE WISHBONE ONCE FOR ME MR. GRUDEN. Please during a game televised in Texas as I am living here now. My collection of Buccaneer memorabilia verifies I am the number 1 Bucs fan.

Mike Marston

stinkydogfilms@sbcglobal.net

[Simeon Smashes Vick All Day]

The quarterback situation should be cleared up by using Simms/Gradkowski/Rattay, at least at first. Please cut Fielder loose. I know Gruden likes him cause he's a veteran QB, but he's butt, he's hurt, he doesn't know the playbook & he didn't go through training camp. Don't think everyone can pick up Gruden's offense the way Gradkowski did. Gradkowski is the truth, he's young but he's so good. He is such a steal as a 6th round pick. He had a bad last game, right, but he was still 10 for 17 with 124 yards. After you put Gradkowski as the backup, Rattay should be 3rd string until Luke McCown is healthy. He knows the offense, and Rattay hasn't shown me anything to be confident in. But Gradkowski will be a GREAT QB in this league and hopefully this team.