Kiffin: It's just speculation

Defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin downplayed reports that he is leaning toward joining his son, Lane, on the University of Tennessee coaching staff, saying "it's all just speculation."

Monte Kiffin has one year remaining on a two-year contract extension he signed in January. But with his son reportedly to be named head coach at Tennessee on Monday, Kiffin is reported to be seriously considering becoming his defensive coordinator.

If so, the elder Kiffin wouldn't go there Sunday.

"I'm just telling you, I can honestly tell you it's just speculation, just like it came up with the Raiders," he said. "It came up two years ago. It came up last year. I'm still here. All I'll talk about and focus on is Monday Night Football, Carolina Panthers, and how about the game we just played?"

It's believed that Lane Kiffin was rebuffed by Raiders owner Al Davis in an effort to hire his father after last season, when Lane was Oakland's coach. Kiffin also has been linked to job opportunities in recent years with the 49ers and Rams, who were considering him for head-coach vacancies.

Asked about the story, coach Jon Gruden said, "It's an outstanding opportunity for Lane and I'm happy for him. He's a good coach and a great guy. . . I know this: We don't want to lose (Monte). He's my friend and, obviously, I want for Monte to answer those questions."

Bucs-Saints: Tell us what you think

At the end of the game, give us your assessment of the Bucs' performance. Leave your name and hometown and you'll have a chance to see your comments in tomorrow's paper.

Live from windswept Raymond James

The winds are gusting here at RJS in advance of the approaching front, and it's going to make for an interesting afternoon throwing and kicking the football. Things will get even more dicey if and when the storms roll in, as expected.

As for the guys who will do the throwing and kicking, the Saints get RB Reggie Bush (knee) back today as he is in the starting lineup.

For the Bucs, SS Jermaine Phillips returns after breaking his arm last month. He, too, is in the starting lineup.

Off the field, we're hoping to get some time with defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin after the game to address reports he is seriously considering an offer to join his son, Lane, at Tennessee, where Lane is expected to be named head coach tomorrow.

It's all fair game on the blog, so log in and let's chat in the comments section below.

Monte Kiffin considering joining son with Vols

Bucs defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin is considering joining his son, Lane Kiffin, at the University of Tennessee, according to a report on ESPN Sunday morning.

The younger Kiffin was hired as the Vols head coach this week and will be introduced in Knoxville Monday.

Monte Kiffin, 68, has been the Bucs defensive coordinator since 1996 and his defense has finished among the top 10 in the NFL 11 times in the past 12 years. The Bucs defense is currently ranked fourth overall.

ESPN reporter Chris Mortensen said 'it's not a done deal yet,' but indicated that's the direction Monte Kiffin is leaning.

One of the rifts that formed between then Raiders coach Lane Kiffin and owner Al Davis was that the younger Kiffin wanted to fire defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and hire his famous father.

Now it appears that he will get that chance. Mortensen said sources have confirmed that Monte Kiffin is expected to join the Vols coaching staff when the Bucs' season ends.

When asked if Monte had expressed a desire to coach with his son, Bucs general manager Bruce Allen said, "I would never answer that question.''

   

 

Ho, hum: Trueblood fined -- again

RT Jeremy Trueblood has been fined by the NFL again, this time a $7,500 penalty for unnecessary roughness against the Lions on Sunday.

Trueblood grabbed an opponent's face mask and held on past the whistle at Detroit, an infraction that wasn't flagged during the game, leaving many scratching their heads.

Trueblood has been fined at least four times this season for on-field conduct and is gaining a reputation -- fairly or unfairly -- for being a dirty player.

Bisaccia: No news on Clemson

Meant to post this on Wednesday, but associate head coach Rich Bisaccia, who oversees running backs and special teams, told me he hasn't been contacted about the head-coaching vacancy at Clemson University.

Bisaccia reportedly is a candidate for the job and was said by the Charleston (S.C.) Post and Courier. to have been contacted by athletic director Terry Don Phillips.

Bisaccia has extensive experience at the college level and served at Clemson's running backs/special teams coach and recruiting coordinator under head coach Tommy West from 1994 to 1998.

Jermaine Phillips' return looks likely

Good news for the Bucs on Thanksgiving Day: S Jermaine Phillips looks likely to return this week from his broken forearm, solidifying the Bucs' secondary.

It's not clear whether Phillips would start ahead of his replacement, Sabby Piscitelli, or come off the bench, but Jon Gruden seems confident Phillips will play now that he's four weeks removed from the injury.

"We're excited about Jermaine," Gruden said. "It looks like he'll be able to go."

Also, TE Alex Smith "has a chance" to play Sunday, Gruden said. Smith has a sprained ankle.

In New Orleans, the Saints report that RB Reggie Bush practiced for the second straight day, increasing the likelihood that he returns from his knee injury this week. Bush has been out since last month.

Bucs change playoff ticket purchase policy

The Bucs announced a change in their playoff ticket policies today that should work in favor of fans.

In the past, the team required season-ticket holders to pay for two potential home playoff games in advance, long before knowing whether the Bucs would win and advance to the next round. If the team did not advance, the money paid for the next game would be credited to the following season's tickets. No refunds were issued.

Now, season-ticket holders will no longer be charged in advance if the purchase is made using a credit card. If and when the team advances, the charge for the second game will then be applied to the credit card on file.

This is clearly a reaction to the slow economy.

"We have the best fans in the NFL and we knew this was the right thing to do after consideration of current economic conditions," director of ticketing and sales Jason Layton said.

On a related note, the Bucs said postseason ticket prices will be lower than last season. For the Wildcard round, the team says prices will be, on average, 10 percent lower than last season.

FOX to give Bucs a little pub

For all those who have been complaining about the lack of national airtime devoted to the Bucs, you'll have less reason to moan as FOX is planning to air a feature on the Bucs during Sunday's pre-game show.

Reporter Pam Oliver was here this morning interviewing coach Jon Gruden and several players, including Jeff Garcia and Ronde Barber. She didn't drop any hints about the content, but said I should definitely tune in.

So, there you have it. A little pub is better than none.

Barber named NFC Defensive Player of Week

Cornerback Ronde Barber had been named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his two interception performance in the Bucs' 38-20 win over the Detroit Lions.

Barber, 33, returned the second interception 65-yards for a touchdown.

Warrick Dunn to carry the load

With Earnest Graham out for the season with an ankle injury, 33-year-old Warrick Dunn will continue to carry the rushing load for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, coach Jon Gruden said.

"We want to put the ball in our best player's hands,'' Gruden said Monday during his weekly news conference at One Buc Place.

Dunn had 127 total yards during the Bucs' 38-20 victory over the Lions Sunday in Detroit. He rushed for a game-high 90 yards on 14 carries, including a 13-yard touchdown, and caught five passes for 37 yards.

Cadillac Williams closed out the fourth quarter and finished with a team-high 16 carries for 27 yards in his first game back from a severe knee injury.

"I thought the more (Williams) ran, the better he got,'' Gruden said. "I thought it was very good for him. He needed that live activity for himself to get acquainted to what it's like.''

Other highlights:

+ There is a chance injured safety Jermaine Phillips (forearm) and tight end Alex Smith (ankle) could return for this weekend's game against the New Orleans Saints, Gruden said.

+ As Antonio Bryant has emerged as the Bucs' go-to receiver, it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Bucs to find playing time for Joey Galloway, who missed much of training camp and the early part of the season with groin and foot injuries.

"We're hoping to get him on the field more and more,'' Gruden said, "but the bottom line is us trying to find a way to win a football game.''

+ Gruden praised the quickness and elusiveness Clifton Smith showed during his 70-yard punt return for a touchdown and 49-yard kickoff return, saying "it takes a lot of guts to do that job.''

But Gruden said he had to speak with Smith about ball control after Smith fumbled (the Bucs recovered) for the fourth consecutive game.

"We'd like to clean up the fumbles,'' Gruden said. "We talked about that yesterday. That's all part of becoming great, being completely reliable.''

With five games left, Bucs NFC's second seed

That's right: If the season ended today, the Bucs would be the second seed in the NFC courtesy of Carolina's loss at Atlanta today.

The 10-1 Giants currently own the top spot in the NFC, but after that, the 8-3 Bucs would be No. 2 by virtue of their head-to-head win over the Panthers. Can you say "first-round bye"?

Of course, we're getting ahead of ourselves. The Bucs visit Carolina next month, and the Bucs still have three division games remaining. But it's certainly interesting to consider what could happen if things fall into place for Tampa Bay.

The next three weeks are pretty much going to decide things: home against New Orleans, at Carolina and at Atlanta.

Hold on to your seats.

Caddy rolls again

Cadillac Williams returned to action today for the first time in 14 months. None of his plays will be replayed among the day's biggest highlights, but his feat might have been the most amazing of all.

You'll have to cut Williams some slack for finishing with 27 yards on 16 carries. Most of his attempts came late in the game when the Lions knew the Bucs were merely trying to run the clock out and they had eight or nine defenders near the line of scrimmage.

Here's what Williams and coach Jon Gruden had to say after Williams' performance.

On his first hit, Williams said, "I believe that's one of the best hits that I've ever had in my life. Just to go out and get hit, I was so excited. It was like I had scored an 80-yard touchdown. It was like, 'Wow.' It felt good. I'm really blessed. In my mind I'm thinking, 'I'm going to do good.' But this is a tough sport. There's guys flying at you, guys flying at your knees. But once you just start playing football, it comes natural."

Gruden said, "I think he looked good. He didn't make a lot of yards. The stat kings out there will criticize us. But he looked good in his uniform, he looked confident, he had a vibe about him and he finished his runs at the end. It's the first time he's carried the ball in a year and a half. I'm emotional about this comeback and I'm really happy that he feels good about the next step. All I know is we have five games left and we're going to need him. Earnest Graham ain't coming back."

Bucs-Lion postgame: Tell us what you think

After watching the game, give us your thoughts on how the Bucs played. Leave your name and hometown and you'll have a chance to see your comments in tomorrow's paper.

Bucs ready for kickoff in Motown

They're getting ready for kickoff at Ford Field here in downtown Detroit, where you can apparently sit wherever you'd like in this near-empty stadium.The game is blacked out locally because, well, it's not even close to a sellout.

Anyway, as we told you in the previous post, RB Cadillac Williams appears set to make his 2008 debut after missing the past 14 months with a knee injury. He was placed on the active roster two weeks ago but was inactive against Minnesota last week.

Elsewhere, TE Alex Smith didn't make the trip because of an ankle injury, pushing John Gilmore into a starting role. But expect to see a whole lot of Jerramy Stevens, even though Gilmore is technically starting. At WR, Dexter Jackson is inactive -- again -- and I'm beginning to wonder when and if we'll see him again.

For the Lions, injured DE Dewayne White, an ex-Buc won't play today because of a calf injury. Ditto for WR Mike Furrey (concussion). In the secondary, S Dwight Smith (foot) won't start and will give way to Kalvin Pearson in a swap of ex-Bucs.

I'll be here all day ready to address your questions or just to chat. See you in the comments section.

Cadillac will play today

Cadillac Williams will re-start his career in the Motor City.

Williams was listed as questionable Fruday with a hamstring strain. But he is not among eight inactive players listed today by the Bucs.

That means Williams could make his first appearance in uniform since suffering a torn right patellar tendon 14 months ago.

The Bucs designated newly acquired running back Noah Herron as inactive Sunday.   

Garcia late hit draws $25K fine

AN NFL spokesman tells us the Vikings' DE Ray Edwards has been fined $25,000 by the NFL for two infractions against the Bucs last Sunday, including a vicious late hit on QB Jeff Garcia that opened a gash in his chin.

Edwards also committed another foul that was deemed unnecessary roughness when he "leg whipped" an unidentified Bucs player, the league said.

Bucs DL Jimmy Wilkerson was not fined for a hit that drew an unnecessary roughness penalty because he made contact with Minnesota QB Gus Frerrotte's head.

Edwards is permitted to appeal the fine, though it's not known whether he intends to. The $25,000 sum is a sizable fine. Based on his 2008 base salary of $445,000, Edwards makes roughly $27,812 for each game.

Cadillac has a hamstring injury?

The injury mysteries continue at One Buc Place.

The daily 4 p.m. injury report surprisingly lists RB Cadillac Williams as having a hamstring injury and lists his status for Sunday's game as questionable.

This is the first mention of any such injury for Williams and it comes only hours after Jon Gruden indicated there was a good chance Williams would play at Detroit.

"Carnell has done some good things and I think he'd be ready to play," Gruden said earlier this afternoon. "There's a chance."

A player listed as questionable has a 50-50 chance of playing in a game. Hopefully we can get to the bottom of this business between now and Sunday's kickoff at Ford Field.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Joey Galloway's broken foot point of irritation?

Tampa Bay Bucs receiver Joey Galloway missed five weeks with what the Bucs orginally described as a right foot sprain he suffered against the Atlanta Falcons.

For weeks, coach Jon Gruden bemoaned the loss of Galloway, whom he referred to as the 'White Tiger,' for his rare appearance this season. Remember, he missed all of training camp and the preseason with a groin strain.

Now Galloway has come forward to admit that in fact his foot was broken against the Falcons and the club did not want that information public because they wanted other teams to prepare for the speedy receiver.

It's hard to imagine that was much of a competitive edge for the Bucs, but so be it. Now that Galloway is completely healthy, he rarely gets on the playing field. Antonio Bryant has taken Galloway's split end position and Michael Clayton is playing well at flanker. Because the Bucs rarely use three receivers, Galloway is the odd-man out, a tough position for a player who has enjoyed three, 1,000-yard receiving seasons with Tampa Bay.

But the Bucs and Galloway's reluctance to disclose the foot was broken made him appear like a player who didn't have the toughness to play with a foot sprain.

In the past three games, Galloway has four catches for 60 yards and did not have a reception last week against the Vikings.

"I'm sure it is tough on him,'' Gruden said of Galloway's new role. "It's been tough on us. We've had to make a lot of adjustments, not only at running back but in our receiving corps. But he plays the same position that Antonio Bryant plays and he can't deny the fact that Antonio is playing great. Not good, he's playing really outstanding football. They're kind of stacked at the same position. We're trying our best to utilize them both and we'll continue to do that.

"But Mike Clayton is having a solid year. His statistics may not say so, but put the tape on. He's really playing well, as is Ike Hilliard. Joey missed a lot of time late last season, missed a lot of the preseason -- all the preseason - he missed five or six games. We're in the process of doing the best we can to use everybody.''

When asked Thursday if Galloway's injury was more serious than he portrayed, Gruden said, "It was a six-week injury. I don't know how you portray anything. It was a six-week injury. I'll let him answer those questions. All I know is we play Detroit Sunday.''

Then Gruden ended the news conference.

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Jermaine Phillips, Alex Smith practice a bit

It's hard to say whether either is close to returning to the lineup, but the Bucs' official injury report today lists S Jermaine Phillips and TE Alex Smith as having practiced on a limited basis.

Phillips broke his forearm at Dallas three weeks ago while Smith suffered a badly sprained ankle at Kansas City on Nov. 2. For Phillips, it's the first time he's seen the field since his injury. Smith said it was premature to say whether he might be able to play this week or not.

Maybe we won't see Caddy after all?

UPDATE, 3:55 p.m.: So, now we're thinking maybe Jon Gruden isn't kidding.

There's a chance that perhaps we won't see Cadillac Williams Sunday at Detroit. That opinion is based on comments from both Gruden and Williams after today's practice, which just concluded.

Gruden indicated that the backup running backs on the roster Sunday will have to be someone who can contribute on special teams. That person is more likely to be newly-signed Noah Herron than Williams, who has never played special teams here.

"I don't know that he'll play a major role in this game yet or not, or even if he'll be active," Gruden said of Williams.

Gruden called Herron "a guy we know can help us on special teams."

Additionally, I asked Williams whether his role in practice has changed much from the past couple of weeks, when he was limited to mostly scout-team duties.

"It's slowly changing, but I didn't really get too many (reps)," he said. "Who knows?"

Right now, things are pointing to a limited role for Williams, if he has any at all, even though the Bucs' backfield is certainly a little thin.

1:43 p.m.: Coach Jon Gruden spoke to the Detroit media today as it is customary for an opponent's coach to conduct a conference call with the other city's media.

He was asked during that call about the chance of RB Cadillac Williams playing this week given Earnest Graham's move to injured reserve.

Gruden's answer wasn't all that clear.

"I don't know that he's going to be active for this game," Gruden said. "There is a chance he could be. We're taking it day by day. I'll tell you guys: If you could see the injury he had and where he is now, it's something that is really a good story. We're doing everything we can to get him back in football condition."

Who knows what the truth is? The view from here is that Gruden is being coy for competitive reasons, not wanting to give up any strategic plans. If Williams isn't going to play under these current circumstances, then why did the Bucs even bother placing him on the active roster? My guess is he plays, unless Gruden is being completely honest here.

This seems like the perfect chance to get Cadillac that first carry, which would seem to be the next major hurdle he has to clear -- both physically and mentally.

Graham, Hayes to injured reserve

As expected, the Bucs have placed RB Earnest Graham (ankle) and LB Geno Hayes (knee) on injured reserve after their respective injuries on Sunday.

Those moves opened up two spots, which the Bucs now have filled. We told you last night about the signing of RB Noah Herron. Now, the Bucs have announced the addition of LB Matt McCoy, who was cut last month after he was arrested on a drunk-driving charge in Tampa, opening a roster spot for WR Brian Clark.

McCoy played in three games earlier in the season.

Herron adds a little backfield depth

The Bucs signed former Northwestern University and Packers RB Noah Herron to a free-agent contract Tuesday, adding depth to a thin backfield after the loss of Earnest Graham to a severe ankle sprain Sunday (see previous posting for details).

Herron missed all of 2007 with a knee injury and hasn't played in 2008. He last saw action in 2006, when he rushed 37 times for 150 yards and caught 29 passes for 211 yards. He was among a few backs worked out by the Bucs on Tuesday.

It's not clear whose spot on the active roster Herron is taking, but the Bucs are likely to place both Graham and LB Geno Hayes on injured reserve. Hayes suffered a serious knee injury against Minnesota on Sunday, the details of which have not been revealed. He is expected to be replaced by a free agent who will provide help on special teams, Hayes' primary role.

As for Herron, it's not known where he will factor in the backfield, but the most likely scenario is that he'll be kept around in a role much like that of Michael Bennett, who played only sparingly before his release last week. Herron was a seventh-round draft pick of the Steelers in 2005 and later that year was signed by the Packers off Pittsburgh's practice squad.

Graham has severe high ankle sprain

We've learned some specifics about RB Earnest Graham's ankle injury.

It appears Graham has a high ankle sprain and also sustained ligament damage, too. It's still expected that he'll be placed on injured reserve before the week is out.

You might recall RB Michael Pittman suffered a very similar injury last season at Indianapolis. He missed the next five weeks before attempting a premature return that sidelined him for another game.

High ankle sprains can be very slow to heal, particularly when there is ligament damage, as in Graham's case.

A little security for Josh Johnson?

Because we've been wondering what kind of strain it has been to keep four quarterbacks on the roster this season, we asked Jon Gruden today about the possibility of a still-injured Brian Griese going to injured reserve or another quarterback losing his spot on the active roster.

Gruden responded with a couple of points: The Bucs are going to give Griese's elbow more time to heal and rookie Josh Johnson isn't going anywhere.

"You don't see Josh Johnson on the practice field, but I assure you, we're not going to do anything to lose Josh Johnson now."

The fifth-round pick out of San Diego is essentially stashed on the active roster this season while he is groomed for the future. The Bucs, who have had to release several players this season to open up needed roster spots, would risk losing him for good if they attempted to release him and subsequently place him on the practice squad. Players on the practice squad can be signed outright by any team, so long as they are placed on that team's active roster.

You might recall the Bucs initially kept four quarterbacks on their active roster last season, but Chris Simms was placed on injured reserve when Michael Pittman was injured and the need to sign a free-agent running back arose.

What They Are Saying About John Lynch

(Courtesy Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders:
''Meeting John was at the top of my list when I made the Pro Bowl after my second year," said Sanders. "His longevity, respect and playmaking ability are what I strive for in this league. His play changed the dynamics of the safety position.”

Buccaneers Executive Vice President Joel Glazer:
“John Lynch is one of the core players who turned this team around and made it great, and I mean that in regards to both his play on the field and the way he conducted himself off the field. He was always one of those players you couldn’t help rooting for, because he worked so hard at the game, obviously cared very deeply about the team’s success and was a true professional in every sense of the word. We’ll miss his big hits and his timely picks, but we’ll always consider John a part of the family.”

Former Buccaneers Fullback Mike Alstott:
“It was an honor and privilege to have played with John for so many years. I was just glad to have been on his team because of the punishing blows he inflicted on the opposing running backs. As a young player coming into the League I was lucky to have a vet like John around as a mentor to show me how to be a professional, how to prepare and how to succeed in this game. John was the true definition of a leader, hard worker and punishing hitter but more so, a great human being. The NFL and the game of football won’t be the same without number 47 lurking in the defensive backfield. As he approaches the next chapter in his life, it’s a pleasure to know that John and I, as well as our families, will remain close friends.”

Bucs offense stopped A.P., too

Coach Jon Gruden made an important point this morning that probably got lost in the shuffle after Sunday's game.

For all the credit we gave the Bucs defense for limiting Vikings RB Adrian Peterson to 85 yards in the win, the Bucs' offense did a yeoman's job, too.

How, you ask? By playing keep away. Frankly, the Vikings didn't have the ball long enough to do a whole lot of damage, particularly in the second half.

Minnesota ran 32 offensive plays in the first half, but in the second half, it was held to just 20 snaps. Meanwhile, the Bucs ran 39 plays in the second half, keeping the Vikings offense off the field, even if Tampa Bay couldn't convert on many of its possessions.

"I thought the offense did extremely well, limiting (Peterson's) opportunities," Gruden said. "That's the best way to shut him down: Leave him on the sideline. I thought our defense tackled, we got people to the football and it's a credit to Coach (Monte) Kiffin and the defense. It's also very much a credit to the offense for keeping them off the field, possessing the ball as long as they did."

Peterson was limited to 14 yards on six carries in the second half.

Graham's season in jeopardy

Bucs running back Earnest Graham's season "could be in jeopardy," coach Jon Gruden said during his news conference Monday at One Buc Place.

Graham sustained an unspecified ankle injury on his first carry of Sunday's 19-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

"Earnest Graham's ankle looks to be a serious injury," Gruden said, "and his status for the rest of the season is very much in question right now."

Graham landed awkwardly in a pile, Gruden said. Gruden said he "didn't have the exact medical terms right now," but expects to get final test results on the ankle in the next couple of hours.

"He means a lot to us," Gruden said. "He's done so much for us the last couple of years. He's a key reason why we are where we are (7-3)."

With Graham out, the Bucs will have to lean even more heavily on Warrick Dunn, who carried 20 times for 53 yards and caught four passes for 65 yards on Sunday, and Clifton Smith, who fumbled for the third time in three games. Fullback B.J. Askew might have to carry the ball as well.

It also means Cadillac Williams, who was activated from the physically unable to perform list last week but was inactive on Sunday, is one step closer to returning to the lineup.

"We brought Cadillac up with the understanding he was ready to go," Gruden said.

Rookie linebacker Geno Hayes, formerly of Florida State, left with an injured knee. His season also "could be in jeopardy right now," Gruden said.

NFC playoff picture coming into focus

We're probably a little early with this, but there was an interesting nugget in today's paper that I thought I'd pass along for those who missed it.

Our editors included a snapshot of the playoff picture in the NFC through Sunday's games, showing you what the playoff lineup would look like if the postseason started today.

DIVISION WINNERS

Giants (East) 9-1*

Panthers (South) 8-2*

Cardinals (West) 7-3

Packers (North) 5-5

WILDCARDS

Bucs 7-3

Redskins 6-4

(* denotes first-round bye)

A great deal is going to change between now and the end of the season. The Bucs play at Carolina, for example, in three weeks. And the Cowboys and Falcons are still very much in the thick of the wildcard race, too. And who knows which teams will rise or fall that we're not even considering?

Guess we'll have our answers soon enough.

Bucs stay perfect at home

One of the little facts that might get lost in the flood of post-game analysis is a very basic fact: The Bucs are still perfect at Raymond James Stadium in 2008.

Today's win takes Tampa Bay to 5-0 in those friendly confines with New Orleans, San Diego and Oakland left on its slate of home games.

"We play hard at home," defensive lineman Jimmy Wilkerson said. "Our fans get into it and give us extra motivation. We just have to find a way to carry it through next week (on the road)."

Bucs-Vikings: Tell us what you think

After the game, tell us what you think about the play of the Bucs on Sunday. Give us your name and hometown and you'll have a chance of seeing your comments in tomorrow's paper.

Vikings-Bucs from RayJay

The Bucs are back for their first home game in a month, hosting the Vikings at Raymond James Stadium.

Per usual, we're here to bring you all the action, whether good or bad.

As for today's lineup, the Bucs won't use RB Cadillac Williams, as expected. He'll be inactive in his first game back on the active roster since coming off the physically unable to perform list.

Elsewhere, TE Alex Smith (ankle) is out, as is QB Brian Griese (elbow). Josh Johnson is the third quarterback. The good news is FB B.J. Askew is back for the first time since Week 3.

Go to the comments section below to read my analysis and updates throughout the afternoon. Feel free to join in, too.

Sapp on Lynch: "Best I ever played with"

The reaction to the John Lynch news is already rolling in.

First up: Warren Sapp.

He just responded to a text message from colleague Rick Stroud, saying the following about Lynch: "He's the best strong safety I ever played with and the second best safety ever behind only Ronnie Lott -- period."

The big man has spoken and I wouldn't dare take issue with him.

John Lynch to retire a Buc -- sort of

UPDATE, 2:11 p.m.: This is rather bizarre, but now we've learned the Broncos will be a part of Monday's ceremony, too. According to ESPN, the Broncos will send representatives of their organization to Tampa after their game in Atlanta on Sunday. They, too, will participate in the retirement proceedings, which effectively means Lynch will retire as a Buc and Bronco.

2:01 p.m.: John Lynch's career has come to an end, and he will make it official here in Tamp, where he spent 11 of his best seasons.

The Bucs have announced the nine-time Pro Bowl selection will announce his retirement in a news conference Monday at One Buc Place.

Lynch won't technically sign a one-day contract to retire as a Buc, so to speak, but his decision to announce his retirement here speaks volumes about his relationship with the team given his unceremonious exit from Tampa Bay in 2003.

We understand a Mike Alstott-like tribute is being planned for Monday afternoon. We'll bring you all the details as they unfold.

Lynch was released by the Broncos before the season and promptly signed with the Patriots, with whom he visited Tampa Bay for a preseason contest. But roster constraints prompted New England to cut Lynch just prior to the season, leaving him no place to play.

Lynch ranks second in NFL history in Pro Bowl selections among safeties, trailing only Hall of Famer Ken Houston (10 selections). Lynch figures to get much consideration for Canton, too.

Cadillac to be inactive Sunday

RB Cadillac Williams is back on the active roster, but he'll almost certainly be inactive against the Vikings on Sunday.

That's the word from coach Jon Gruden, who just conducted the team's final practice of the week at One Buc Place.

"I don't foresee (Williams) being a part of this game," Gruden said. "We'll see how the next 48 hours unfold. We seem to have had some injuries in the backfield. If everything goes as planned, I don't see him being active."

Williams was activated from the Physically Unable to Perform List on Wednesday after spending 14 months rehabbing a severe right knee injury. But Earnest Graham (knee) looked good for the second straight day today and Warrick Dunn (back) appears to be progressing nicely, so there doesn't seem to be a need to rush Williams into action this week.

Williams is okay with that.

"I knew coming in that my chance of playing wasn't too likely," he said. "It's not a big surprise."

Graham returns to practice

Running back Earnest Graham, who has been battling a knee injury, returned to practice Thursday. That's a great sign for the Bucs heading into Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, who are third overall in rushing defense.

Michael Bennett saw it coming

It might surprise you to learn that Michael Bennett, of all people, is signing the praises of Cadillac Williams, but that's exactly what he did in a phone conversation with me earlier this evening.

Bennett -- who was claimed off waivers by the Chargers after his release today and will leave for San Diego on Sunday -- said he pretty much knew where things were going based on Williams' recent practices and Bennett's own inactivity.

"I saw the handwriting on the wall," he said. "I knew from watching Cadillac in practices because of how good he looked. He's their franchise back and they wanted him out there. On Monday, I didn't even get a rep in practice and I knew what was coming."

Bennett's not angry, even though he had little chance this season to prove his worth with seven carries for 12 yards. But his past year in Tampa Bay was, at best, frustrating.

"I understand," he said. "I just wish they wish they had told me what was going on instead of kind of getting strung along like a puppet. To re-sign here (in March) with expectations, it's disappointing. It just didn't pan out."

Earnest Graham absent again

RB Earnest Graham was not present for the start of today's practice in the limited time allotted for the media to watch the workout.

That raises concerns about Graham's knee which he injured against Kansas City. Graham was sidelined for Monday's practice and coach Jon Gruden said Graham's condition is a concern. If the Bucs are without Graham this weekend against Minnesota, it increases the likelihood Cadillac Williams will be pressed into service. The Bucs also could look to rookie Clifton Smith, who took snaps at running back against the Chiefs.

We'll update Graham's condition after speaking with Gruden following practice.

Still hurting from hit, Hilliard could miss games

The hit that knocked Ike Hilliard unconscious Oct. 19 could force him to miss some games and threatens to end his season.

Hilliard, 32, still is experiencing headaches from the helmet-to-helmet blow he sustained when he was sandwiched between Seattle linebackers Leroy Hill and Lofa Tatupu nearly four weeks ago.

Hilliard has not missed a game since but said his condition has not improved and worried earlier this week he might need surgery.

As a rookie with the Giants in 1997, Hilliard underwent spinal fusion surgery, so the latest injury is particularly worrisome. But after consulting with doctors Tuesday, Hilliard has decided to rehab the injury and is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Vikings.

"I've been dealing with something on and off for the last five years, but now it's constant,'' Hilliard said. "Obviously, after the hit, it's something I've got to get control of.''

Hill was not fined for the hit because the league determined Hilliard had established himself as a runner. Hilliard has 33 catches for 281 yards and three touchdowns this season. Against Kansas City, he tied a season high with six catches for 55 yards.

Hilliard beat some tall odds to return to the NFL. As a rookie, he took a hard hit from behind in a game against Jacksonville that snapped his head forward. Doctors fused the sixth and seventh vertebrae in Hilliard's neck.

According to MayoClinic.com, about 20 percent of people who receive spinal fusion surgery need another operation within 11 years.

"I saw three specialists. Two told me I could play again and one told me I should never step on a football field again,'' Hilliard said of his injury with the Giants. ""I had to deal with that. It's a decision you make. My mon, God bless her, I miss her, she was a spiritually-grounded woman. She was one who really didn't want me to play but she turned it over for me and we all have to turn it over at some point if you believe in something.''

          

Tampa Bay Bucs release Michael Bennett, send Maurice Stovall to I.R.

The Bucs released running back Michael Bennett to make room for Cadillac Williams on the 53-man roster.

The team  also announced two other moves. The Bucs placed receiver Maurice Stovall (hamstring) on injured reserve and signed receiver Brian Clark from the practice squad.

Bennett, who was aquired in a trade with Kansas City last season and re-signed as a free agent last spring, was seldom-used in the Bucs offense after leading the team in rushing during the preseason. He had just seven carries for 12 yards and was inactive four games.

Williams, who suffered a torn patellar tendon nearly 14 months ago, has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list. But after watching him practice for three weeks, the Bucs decided to activate him rather than place him on Injured Reserve.

Williams will join Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn and Clifton Smith at tailback. Graham is questionable for Sunday's game with a knee injury.

Gruden dismisses Tennessee rumors

Coach Jon Gruden made it clear he has no interest in the head coaching job at the University of Tennessee.

"I've said it from the beginning, this is the only job I've really ever wanted,'' Gruden said. "As long as the Glazers will have me, I'll be here. I've got a lot of respect for Tennessee. I grew up down there a little bit. My wife is from there. But this is where I want to be and I can only make myself that clear.''

Gruden would not entertain questions about whether he would ever have an interest in coaching college football.

"I don't even want to start that,'' Gruden said. "I've wanted to be in the NFL my whole life and this is something I'm really excited to do. This is where I want to be and I'll leave it at that.''

Caddy almost certain to be activated

Barring an unforseen change of heart, the Bucs have every intention of putting Cadillac Williams on the active roster Wednesday.

Williams, who suffered a torn patellar tendon in his right knee nearly 14 months ago, participated in contact drills with pads on Monday. Coach Jon Gruden said he has no reason to believe Williams won't be activated from the Physically Unable to Perform list.

"We staged a couple drills for Carnell Williams to get hit. He responded to it. It's exciting,'' Gruden said. "I've said that for a long time. It's almost like Christmas is here. And Christmas is Wednesday, I hope.

"We'll see how he feels. We'll talk to the trainers and the medical people. If my eyes don't deceive me, I think he has a chance to be a player this year and that would be exciting.'

Williams return could come at a good time for the Bucs. Earnest Graham has a knee injury and could miss Sunday's game against Minnesota. Warrick Dunn has a pinched nerve in his back and did not play at Kansas City.

   "This guy is a hell of a back. This guy is a very good back,'' Gruden said of Williams, the Rookie of the Year in 2005. "We have film to prove that. We want him to be a big part of our organization. So if he's healthy, he's going to play here.

"Earnest (Graham) has done a heck of a job. We do have some injuries. Warrick (Dunn) has been out for the last two games. If we could ever get Warrick Dunn and Earnest Graham and Carnell Williams, that would be exciting for us.''

Gruden cautioned not to expect Williams to jump into the role of feature back as soon as he returns.

"Obviously, this is a process. We'll take it day by day,'' Gruden said. "As we gather more information and get evidence that he's 100 percent back, obviously, his role will be determined by that.''

To make room for Williams, the Bucs will have to release a player or move one to injured reserve. One candidate could be Michael Bennett, who has played sparingly this season even in the wake of injuries to Dunn and Graham.

"That's why they hire these general managers to make these tough decisions,'' Gruden said. "I'll just say this: it'll be a tough call for us.''

Bucs sign Nicholson, Clark to practice squad

The Bucs today signed safety Donte Nicholson, released wide receiver Brian Clark and re-signed Clark to the practice squad after he cleared waivers.

If Caddy comes back, who goes?

We're all anxiously waiting to see whether RB Cadillac Williams is activated in the next week from the physically unable to perform list.

It would be a great feat for a guy who suffered a devastating, career-threatening patellar tendon tear in his knee over a year ago. Williams has been working toward a return and the 21-day evaluation period -- after which he must be activated or placed on injured reserve -- ends Wednesday.

We're probably getting too far ahead of ourselves here, but if Williams is activated, there's one other step that will need to be taken: The Bucs will have to release someone from their 53-man active roster to make space for him.

With as many injuries as the Bucs are currently dealing with, it will be a challenge to find someone who isn't absolutely necessary right now.

There's a chance the Bucs could look to place one of their injured players on injured reserve, such as FB B.J. Askew, who has been out since tearing a hamstring in Week 3. As valuable as he is, the Bucs have already gone without his services for this long, and it's conceivable they'd make a tough call and place him on IR.

Another option I'm sure many here would be all too happy to suggest is releasing second-round pick Dexter Jackson, who clearly isn't in the plans and doesn't figure to have any kind of role for the remainder of the season now that he's lost the return duties. Still, I have a hard time envisioning this. One reason I don't see this happening is that releasing him would be tantamount to admitting the pick was a mistake. To this point, the Bucs have defended the choice, at least publicly. I reserve the right to be wrong on that one, though.

Another possibility is QB Josh Johnson, the fifth-round pick who won't play for the Bucs anytime soon. It's less likely that another team would pick him up this late in the season, at least one that had designs on using him in 2008. It would be unlikely he could help another team at this stage. But there's always a chance he could be attractive to another team that might be willing to invest some time in him and wouldn't mind stashing him on its roster right now. If released, he would have to clear waivers before the Bucs could sneak him onto the practice squad. Still, I've heard his name has come up in these kinds of conversations earlier in the season. It's tough to keep four quarterbacks under any circumstances, let alone with the Bucs' current injury situation.

This is just one of the many personnel challenges the Bucs will face this season. As usual, this one will be a tough call, too.

Big second-half coming from Clayton?

WR Michael Clayton has seen plenty of highs and lows in his five seasons in Tampa Bay.

He was a darling of the 2004 rookie class, setting a Bucs rookie receiving record. Then came 2005-2007 when Clayton suffered from a years-long case of the dropsies and lost Jon Gruden's faith in him.

But a funny thing has happened lately: Gruden has a renewed confidence in Clayton. And Clayton has a renewed confidence in himself.

I sat down with Michael earlier this week (you'll see the content of the interview in a story in tomorrow's St. Petersburg Times) and he made a compelling case for why this season could be different for him. Opportunity is everything at receiver, and Clayton is getting his share. He made one of the biggest plays of the game on Sunday, when he caught a 29-yard pass in overtime that took the Bucs into Kansas City territory. He seemingly shook half the Chiefs' defense along the way, too. It was good to see him making the kind of play everyone came to expect from him as a rookie.

The question now is whether Clayton can sustain this and potentially build on it. The Bucs are going to need some big plays to contend for anything this season. Clayton has made his share in the past. Maybe he can make them again.

If nothing else, he's certainly motivated.

"There's definitely something to prove," he said. "I've been here five years. I want to be here. I want to win a Super Bowl. It's one of the most important things in my life right now. As a player, you just have to go out and on that field and take it by any means necessary. That's what it takes to win a championship."

Smith named Special Teams Player of Week

Bucs running back Clifton Smith was named named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for Week 9, according to a news release.

Smith became the second player in franchise history to return a kickoff for a touchdown with his 97-yard return, the longest in team history, late in the second quarter of the Bucs' 30-27 overtime win over the Kansas City Chiefs.

He finished the day with six kickoff returns for 232 yards and two punt returns for 27 yards. His 259 total return yards set a franchise record for the most return yards by an individual in a single game.

Faine midseason All-Pro pick

The staff at respected publication Pro Football Weekly have -- just for fun -- put together a midseason All-Pro team.

Turns out, C Jeff Faine makes the list. The team is voted on by the PFW's editors. The full list is below.

OFFENSE

QB Drew Brees, Saints
RB Clinton Portis, Redskins*
RB Michael Turner, Falcons
WR Andre Johnson, Texans
WR Greg Jennings, Packers
TE Jason Witten, Cowboys*
C Jeff Faine, Buccaneers
OG Chris Snee, Giants*
OG Jahri Evans, Saints
OT Chris Samuels, Redskins*
OT Michael Roos, Titans

DEFENSE

DE Mario Williams, Texans*
DE Justin Tuck, Giants
DT Albert Haynesworth, Titans
DT Kris Jenkins, Jets
OLB Joey Porter, Dolphins*
OLB DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys*
ILB Ray Lewis, Ravens
CB Charles Woodson, Packers*
CB Cortland Finnegan, Titans
S LaRon Landry, Redskins
S Troy Polamalu, Steelers

SPECIALISTS

PK Matt Prater, Broncos
P Mike Scifres, Chargers
PR Reggie Bush, Saints*
KR Darren Sproles, Chargers*

COACH

Jeff Fisher, Titans

*-Unanimous selection

Gruden concerned about running game

Jon Gruden expressed concern about injuries to running back Earnest Graham and tight end Alex Smith during his weekly news conference Monday at One Buc Place.

Graham injured a knee during the Bucs' 30-27 overtime win over the Chiefs Sunday in Kansas City and is being evaluated, Gruden said. His status is uncertain.

Smith left with an ankle sprain after making a sliding catch on a two-point conversion pass with 19 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime. He is being evaluated.

"Those two guys in particular we're worried about,'' Gruden said.

With running back Warrick Dunn (back) and fullback B.J. Askew (hamstring) already sidelined, this week's bye couldn't come at a better time for the Bucs' ground game.

"The bye, I think, it's going to help us,'' Gruden said. "Our running back situation in particular is very concerning for us.''

While they wait for their injured players to return, help could come from a couple of unexpected places.

The Bucs got a lift on Sunday from Clifton Smith, an undrafted free agent out of Fresno State who was promoted from the practice squad little more than a week ago. Smith returned a kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown, ran for 17 yards and caught a pass.

"He helped us not only in the kicking game, but from scrimmage,'' Gruden said. On those final couple drives, you saw a lot of Clifton Smith as a runner and receiver, picking up the blitz. ... It's a real credit to him.''

Also, Cadillac Williams, sidelined more than a year with a devastating knee injury, will be on the field in pads this week and ''could possibly be of help to the team,'' Gruden said.

Historic win for Bucs

This game was as historic as it was dramatic.

Coming back from a 24-3 deficit, the Bucs accomplished the biggest comeback victory in franchise history with their 30-27 overtime win. The only other games that can compare are a pair of 17-point comebacks in 1979 and 1983.

The Bucs defeated Baltimore 29-26 in overtime on Sept. 9, 1979 after trailing 17-0. On Jan. 2, 1983, the Bucs knocked off the Bears 26-23 in overtime after trailing 23-6.

Also today, Jon Gruden becomes the winningest coach in team history (playoffs included) with his 57th victory. Tony Dungy ranks second with 56 and John McKay third with 45.

Bucs-Chiefs: Tell us what you think

At the end of the game, give us your thoughts on how the Bucs played. Leave your comment, name and hometown and we'll choose the best ones to run in tomorrow's paper.

Bucs limp into Arrowhead

I'm joining you a little late, a result of some technical issues.

In the meantime, the Bucs have managed to find themselves in a 14-0 hole here in Kansas City. They've allowed their first rushing touchdown of the season along the way, with Kolby Smith diving in from a yard out.

As you probably know, Warrick Dunn (back) and Arron Sears (back, head) are out, remaining back in Tampa for the weekend.

We'll keep you posted throughout in the comments section. Join us to share your thoughts or ask your questions. See you soon.

Several skip K.C. trip

The Bucs have announced RB Warrick Dunn (back) and G Arron Sears (back, head) did not travel with the team earlier today to Kansas City and will miss Sunday's game.

Also, the Bucs left behind three others who were never expected to play: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring) and SS Jermaine Phillips (broken arm).

Dunn's injury will press Michael Bennett into action while Sears will give way to rookie Jeremy Zuttah.