Gators and Bucs team up

The Bucs worked out at Raymond James Stadium today as they occasionally do during the offseason, and they brought along a few guests: the University of Florida coaching staff.

UF Urban Meyer and some of his staff joined the Bucs in meetings Thursday morning then had a front-row seat for practice. Meyer was joined by co-defensive coordinators Charlie Strong and Greg Mattison, as well as several other members of the staff, each hoping to take something away from the day.

But Bucs coach Jon Gruden saw it as a two-way street.

"We’re going to go back to the facility and maybe learn a couple tricks from the Gators," he said. "A great coach, a great staff and a great program. I’m pleased to have (Meyer) here today."

Asked later how he dealt with watching the national championship game pitting Florida against Ohio State -- Gruden is good friends with OSU coach Jim Tressel -- Gruden did the smart thing.

"Man, I live in Florida," he said. "If I say I was pulling for Ohio State. . . I got enough problems. You always have to root for the hometown team. I’ve known Jim Tressel for a long time, but I was happy to see the Gators win."