2009 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season
Encyclopedia
The 2009
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
season was the franchise's 34th season as a franchise in the NFL
. The Buccaneers looked to improve on their 9–7 record from their 2008 season and 3rd place finish in the NFC South but failed to do so as they finished the season at 3–13, missing the playoffs for the second straight year.
The Buccaneers played seven of their home games at Raymond James Stadium
. One of their home games was played at Wembley Stadium
, as part of the International Series
, in which they lost to the New England Patriots
35–7.
The Buccaneers unveiled a Ring of Honor to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the 1979 franchise. Lee Roy Selmon
was the first inductee when the team wore throwback uniforms on November 8 against Green Bay
that they won 38–28.
and general manager Bruce Allen
were fired. The following day, Raheem Morris
, recently promoted from defensive backs coach to defensive coordinator, was instead elevated to head coach, with Mark Dominik
named general manager. The remainder of the coaching staff was finalized by mid-February.
saw the Buccaneers fall to the Dallas Cowboys
by a score of 34–21. Running back "Cadillac" Williams
returned as a starter, and rushed for 97 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback Byron Leftwich
threw for 276 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. The Buccaneer defense, however, gave up three big plays in the loss.
Dallas quarterback Tony Romo
threw for a career-best 353 yards. Three long touchdown passes (66, 80, 44 yards respectively) put the game out of reach. Early in the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay closed the deficit to 20–14, but Romo's 80-yard catch & run to Patrick Crayton
put the Cowboys ahead for good.
On specials teams, kicker Mike Nugent
had one field goal attempt blocked, and shanked another.
to meet the Bills
. The Buccaneers had played only one time at Buffalo, a preseason game in 1977. Byron Leftwich
threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns, but the Bills held Tampa Bay to only 57 yards rushing, and the Buccaneers had 13 penalties for 112 yard in the loss.
Leading 20–7 with less than a minute remaining in the first half, Buffalo looked to score once more. However, Fred Jackson fumbled at the Tampa Bay 16, and Sabby Piscitelli
recovered. Piscitelli ran 72 yards to the Buffalo 8, and after a touchdown on the next play, Tampa Bay trimmed the deficit to 20–14.
Late in the fourth quarter, Leftwich
led the Buccaneers on 14-play scoring drive, twice converting on 4th down. The touchdown could have brought the Buccaners within 8 points, but a failed two-point conversion
ultimately foiled the comeback. Tampa Bay dropped to 0–2, and lost their sixth consecutive game, dating back to 2008.
. Tampa Bay would trail early in the first quarter with Giants running back Brandon Jacobs
getting a 6-yard touchdown run. The Buccaneers'deficit would climb in the second quarter with quarterback Eli Manning
's 4-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Steve Smith
.
New York continued its dominance in the third quarter with kicker Lawrence Tynes
nailing a 26-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Giants would close out the game with Manning's 18-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Sinorice Moss
.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–3.
for a Week 4 duel with the Washington Redskins
. Due to Byron Leftwich
's poor performance during the first three weeks of the season, quarterback Josh Johnson
would get his first career start.
Tampa Bay would come out firing in the first quarter with Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Bryant
, followed by kicker Mike Nugent
's 37-yard field goal in the second quarter. However, the Redskins came back with a vengeance in the third quarter. Kicker Shaun Suisham
would get a 42-yard field goal, followed by quarterback Jason Campbell
's 17-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley (with a blocked PAT) and a 59-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Santana Moss
. The Bucs tried to rally in the fourth quarter as Nugent nailed a 22-yard field goal, but Washington's defense would prevent any further progress.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–4.
for a Week 5 duel with the Philadelphia Eagles
. Tampa Bay would immediately trail in the first quarter as Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb
hooked up with wide receiver Jeremy Maclin
on a 51-yard touchdown pass. Philadelphia would increase their lead in the second quarter with McNabb completing a 20-yard touchdown pass to fullback Leonard Weaver. The Buccaneers would get on the board with quarterback Josh Johnson
's 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kellen Winslow
, but the Eagles would close out the first half with McNabb finding Maclin again on a 40-yard touchdown 40-yard touchdown pass.
In the third quarter, Philadelphia would increase their lead with running back Brian Westbrook
getting a 7-yard touchdown run. The Eagles would then start off the fourth quarter with kicker David Akers
nailing a 44-yard field goal. Tampa Bay tried to rally as Johnson connected with Winslow again on a 9-yard touchdown pass, but Philadelphia closed out the game with defensive end Darren Howard
tackling running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
in his endzone for a safety.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–5.
. Tampa Bay sailed off to a good start in the first quarter with a 20-yard touchdown run from running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
. However, the Panthers would tie the game in the second quarter with running back DeAngelo Williams
getting a 20-yard touchdown run.
During the second quarter, punt returner Clifton Smith left the game due to a concussion caused by Panthers cornerback Dante Wesley
ramming into Smith. Wesley was flagged for unnecessary roughness and was ejected.
Carolina would take the lead in the third quarter with quarterback Jake Delhomme
completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jeff King
and running back Jonathan Stewart
getting a 26-yard touchdown, yet the Buccaneers immediately got themselves back into the game as rookie wide receiver Sammie Stroughter
returned the kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay tied the game with safety Tanard Jackson
's 26-yard interception return for a touchdown. However, the Panthers delivered the final blow with Williams' 1-yard touchdown run.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–6.
for Week 7's NFL International
game with the New England Patriots
. For this game, Tampa Bay was listed as the home team.
The Buccaneers would trail early in the first quarter as Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather
returned an interception 39 yards for a touchdown, followed by quarterback Tom Brady
finding wide receiver Wes Welker
on a 14-yard touchdown pass. New England increased their lead in the second quarter as Brady completed a 54-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Sam Aiken
, yet Tampa Bay would get onto the board with quarterback Josh Johnson
completing a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Bryant
.
However, the Patriots took control throughout the second half as Brady hooked up with tight end Benjamin Watson
on a 35-yard touchdown pass, while running back Laurence Maroney
got himself a 1-yard touchdown run.
With the loss, the Buccaneers went into their bye week at 0–7.
. This game would be the first career start for rookie quarterback Josh Freeman
.
Tampa Bay would trail early in the first quarter as Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers
completed a 74-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver James Jones
. The Buccaneers would get on the board with Freeman finding running back Derrick Ward
on a 6-yard touchdown pass, but Green Bay answered with running back Ryan Grant
getting a 2-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, Tampa Bay fired back as cornerback Ronde Barber
returned a blocked punt 31 yards for a touchdown, but the Packers replied with Rodgers hooking up with wide receiver Donald Driver
on a 32-yad touchdown pass. The Buccaneers would close out the half with kicker Connor Barth
booting a 38-yard field goal.
After a scoreless third quarter, Green Bay would strike again in the fourth quarter as Rodgers got a 12-yard touchdown run. Afterwards, Tampa Bay took the lead as Freeman completed a pair of 7-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kellen Winslow
(with a failed two-point conversion) and rookie wide receiver Sammie Stroughter
(with a successful two-point conversion pass to wide receiver Michael Clayton). The Packers tried to get a comeback, yet safety Tanard Jackson
came through with a 35-yard interception return from a touchdown.
With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 1–7.
. In the first quarter, Tampa Bay struck first as kicker Connor Barth
got a 51-yard field goal. However, the Dolphins would answer with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Ronnie Brown
(with a blocked PAT). Miami would add onto their lead in the second quarter with a 49-yard field goal from kicker Dan Carpenter
. The Buccaneers would reply with Barth's 50-yard field goal, but the Dolphins would take a huge lead as quarterback Chad Henne
completed a 5-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kory Sperry
, followed by Carpenter getting a 30-yard field goal.
Tampa Bay would get the only score of the third quarter as Barth nailed a 54-yard field goal. The Buccaneers would creep closer in the fourth quarter as rookie quarterback Josh Freeman
completed a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Maurice Stovall
, yet Miami continued to have their way as Carpenter booted a 45-yard field goal. Tampa Bay would take the lead as running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
got a 1-yard touchdown run, but the Dolphins got the last laugh as Carpenter made the game-winning 25-yard field goal.
With the tough loss, the Buccaneers fell to 1–8.
.
In he first quarter the Bucs trailed early as kicker Jason Elam
nailed a 45-yard field goal, and then with QB Chris Redman
making a 22-yard touchdown pass to RB Jerious Norwood
. Then the Bucs replied with QB Josh Freeman
making a 42-yard touchdown pass to WR Antonio Bryant
, then kicker Connor Barth
made a 39-yard field goal. In the third quarter the Bucs took the lead when Freeman hooked up with Cadillac Williams on an 8-yard touchdown pass. Then the Falcons lost the margin when kicker Jason Elam
got a 37-yard field goal. In the final seconds of the fourth quarter the Bucs fell behind when Redman made a 5-yard touchdown pass to WR Roddy White
.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 1–10 and stay winless on the road after 5 visits. Additionally, the team was officially eliminated from postseason contention.
's exotic blitzes. Freeman finishing the day with three interceptions and a passer rating of just 12.1, well below his season average of 59.8.
. After a scoreless first quarter, Seattle got on the board first with QB Matt Hasselbeck
's 29 yard pass to tight end John Carlson. The Bucs got on the board with Connor Barth
's 28 yard field goal to end the first half.
In the third quarter, Tampa Bay took the lead after a 45 yard field goal and a 22 yard touchdown pass by QB Josh Freeman
to running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
, set up by a Tanard Jackson
interception. The Buccaneers further extended their lead with a 28 yard pass to running back Derrick Ward
, with a successful two point conversion. In the fourth quarter, Barth kicked another field goal for 39 yards. Seattle tried to rally, but Hasselbeck threw an interception (his fourth) in the end zone to cornerback Elbert Mack
for a touchback.
With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 2–12. Not only was it their first road win since November 23, 2008, it also marked their first win on the west coast since winning Super Bowl XXXVII
in San Diego and their first win in Seattle since 1999.
This was the first time in franchise history that the Bucs defeated the eventual Super Bowl champions.
2009 NFL season
The 2009 NFL season was the 90th regular season of the National Football League.The preseason started with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on August 9, 2009, and the regular season began September 10. The season ended with Super Bowl XLIV, the league's championship game, on February 7, 2010 at...
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...
season was the franchise's 34th season as a franchise in the NFL
National Football League
The National Football League is the highest level of professional American football in the United States, and is considered the top professional American football league in the world. It was formed by eleven teams in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, with the league changing...
. The Buccaneers looked to improve on their 9–7 record from their 2008 season and 3rd place finish in the NFC South but failed to do so as they finished the season at 3–13, missing the playoffs for the second straight year.
The Buccaneers played seven of their home games at Raymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium
Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events...
. One of their home games was played at Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium
The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007...
, as part of the International Series
NFL International Series
Beginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
, in which they lost to the New England Patriots
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
35–7.
The Buccaneers unveiled a Ring of Honor to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the 1979 franchise. Lee Roy Selmon
Lee Roy Selmon
Lee Roy Selmon was a Hall of Fame NFL football defensive lineman.-Early life:Selmon was the youngest of nine children of Lucious and Jessie Selmon, raised on a farm near Eufaula, Oklahoma...
was the first inductee when the team wore throwback uniforms on November 8 against Green Bay
Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are an American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Packers are the current NFL champions...
that they won 38–28.
Coaching change
On January 16, 2009, less than three weeks after the 2008 regular season concluded, head coach Jon GrudenJon Gruden
Jon David Gruden is an American football analyst and former head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for seven seasons and prior to that the Oakland Raiders for four seasons. In his first year as the head coach of Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers won Super Bowl XXXVII, defeating the Raiders whom he had...
and general manager Bruce Allen
Bruce Allen (American football)
Bruce Allen is the general manager of the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. Previously, Allen served as general manager for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and as a senior executive with the Oakland Raiders .-Background:...
were fired. The following day, Raheem Morris
Raheem Morris
Raheem Morris is the head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was hired by the Buccaneers as head coach on January 17, 2009 after previous head coach Jon Gruden was fired after seven seasons....
, recently promoted from defensive backs coach to defensive coordinator, was instead elevated to head coach, with Mark Dominik
Mark Dominik
Mark Dominik is the current general manager for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. Dominik attended the University of Kansas where he was a member of the Delta Chi fraternity...
named general manager. The remainder of the coaching staff was finalized by mid-February.
Key signings
- Luke McCownLuke McCownLucas Patrick McCown is an American football quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League...
was re-signed to a two-year contract on February 9 worth $7.5 million. - Derrick WardDerrick WardDerrick LaRon Ward is an American football running back for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at Fresno State University and Ottawa University...
- Angelo CrowellAngelo CrowellAngelo Delvonne Crowell is an American football linebacker for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
- Byron LeftwichByron LeftwichByron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played...
(signed two-year deal worth $7.5 million) - Dirk JohnsonDirk JohnsonDirk Johnson is an American football punter who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 1998...
was signed as punter to replace Josh BidwellJosh BidwellJoshua John Bidwell is an American football punter who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft...
who was placed on IR due to a hip injury).
Acquisitions
- Acquired Kellen Winslow IIKellen Winslow IIKellen Boswell Winslow, II is an American football tight end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns sixth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft...
in a trade with ClevelandCleveland BrownsThe Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
for a second round draft pick in 2009 and a fifth round pick in 2010 on February 27.
Selected cuts/losses
- Jeff GarciaJeff GarciaJeffrey Jason "Jeff" Garcia is an American football quarterback who is currently a free agent. He played college football at San Jose State University....
- Micheal SpurlockMicheal SpurlockMichael Curtis Spurlock is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2006...
- Derrick BrooksDerrick BrooksDerrick Dewan Brooks is a former American football linebacker in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers 28th overall in the 1995 NFL Draft. He played college football at Florida State....
- Warrick DunnWarrick DunnWarrick De'Mon Dunn is a former American football running back, and current minority owner of the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12th overall in the 1997 NFL Draft, after playing college football at Florida State...
- Joey GallowayJoey GallowayJoseph Scott Galloway is an American football wide receiver. He most recently played for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks eighth overall in the 1995 NFL Draft...
- Ike HilliardIke HilliardIsaac Jason "Ike" Hilliard is a former American college and professional football player who was a wide receiver for twelve seasons in the National Football League during the 1990s and 2000s. He played college football for the University of Florida, and thereafter, he played professionally for...
- Cato JuneCato JuneCato Nnamdi June is a free agent American football linebacker who most recently played for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. A 2006 Pro Bowl choice, June was a...
- Brian GrieseBrian GrieseBrian David Griese is a former American football quarterback. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He played high school football at Christopher Columbus High School and later college football at Michigan....
- Matt BryantMatt BryantSteven Matt Bryant is an American football placekicker for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He was signed by the Frankfurt Galaxy as a street free agent in 2002...
- Luke McCownLuke McCownLucas Patrick McCown is an American football quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars of the National Football League...
was traded to the Jacksonville JaguarsJacksonville JaguarsThe Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
for a 2010 undisclosed draft pick on September 5, 2009.
2009 NFL Draft
| Draft order | Player name | Position | Height | Weight | College | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | Choice | |||||
| 1 | 17 | Josh Freeman Josh Freeman -2009:On November 8, 2009, Freeman started his first professional game at home against the Green Bay Packers. The Buccaneers won, ending an 11-game losing streak. He completed 14 out of 31 passes for 205 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 INT, including a fourth down touchdown pass to rookie Sammie... |
QB Quarterback Quarterback is a position in American and Canadian football. Quarterbacks are members of the offensive team and line up directly behind the offensive line... |
6'6" | 248 | Kansas State Kansas State University Kansas State University, commonly shortened to K-State, is an institution of higher learning located in Manhattan, Kansas, in the United States... |
| 2 | Traded to Cleveland | |||||
| 3 | 81 | Roy Miller Roy Miller (American football) Roy Miller is an American football defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Texas.-Early years:... |
DT | 6'1" | 310 | Texas University of Texas at Austin The University of Texas at Austin is a state research university located in Austin, Texas, USA, and is the flagship institution of the The University of Texas System. Founded in 1883, its campus is located approximately from the Texas State Capitol in Austin... |
| 4 | 117 | Kyle Moore Kyle Moore Kyle Moore is an American football defensive end for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft... |
DE Defensive end Defensive end is the name of a defensive position in the sport of American and Canadian football.This position has designated the players at each end of the defensive line, but changes in formations have substantially changed how the position is played over the years... |
6'6" | 272 | USC University of Southern California The University of Southern California is a private, not-for-profit, nonsectarian, research university located in Los Angeles, California, United States. USC was founded in 1880, making it California's oldest private research university... |
| 5 | 155 | Xavier Fulton Xavier Fulton Xavier Allen Fulton is an American football offensive tackle for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Illinois.Fulton has also been a member of the Indianapolis... |
OL | 6'4" | 302 | Illinois |
| 6 | Traded to Chicago | |||||
| 7 | 217 | E. J. Biggers E. J. Biggers Edjaun Cinclair "E. J." Biggers is an American football cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. Biggers played college football at Western Michigan University.-Early years:... |
CB Cornerback A cornerback is a member of the defensive backfield or secondary in American and Canadian football. Cornerbacks cover receivers, to defend against pass offenses and make tackles. Other members of the defensive backfield include the safeties and occasionally linebackers. The cornerback position... |
6'0" | 180 | Western Michigan Western Michigan University Western Michigan University is a public university located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States. The university was established in 1903 by Dwight B. Waldo, and as of the Fall 2010 semester, its enrollment is 25,045.... |
| 7 | Traded to Pittsburgh | |||||
| 7 | 233 | Sammie Stroughter Sammie Stroughter Sammie Stroughter is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State.... |
WR | 5'10" | 189 | Oregon State Oregon State University Oregon State University is a coeducational, public research university located in Corvallis, Oregon, United States. The university offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees and a multitude of research opportunities. There are more than 200 academic degree programs offered through the... |
- Tampa Bay traded their second-round selection and 2010 fifth-round selection to ClevelandCleveland BrownsThe Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
for Kellen Winslow, Jr.. - BaltimoreBaltimore RavensThe Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
traded conditional late-round selections in 2009 and 2010 to Tampa Bay for Marques DouglasMarques DouglasMarques Lamont Douglas is an American football defensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 1999...
. - Tampa Bay traded their sixth-round selection to ChicagoChicago BearsThe Chicago Bears are a professional American football team based in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
for Brian GrieseBrian GrieseBrian David Griese is a former American football quarterback. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He played high school football at Christopher Columbus High School and later college football at Michigan....
. In a separate deal, the Bears traded their own sixth-round selection to the Buccaneers for Dan BuenningDan BuenningDan Robert Buenning is an American football guard for the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Wisconsin.Buenning has also been a member of the Chicago Bears.-External...
. - JacksonvilleJacksonville JaguarsThe Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
traded their seventh round selection in 2009 and two selections in 2008 to Tampa Bay for their second-round selection in 2008 (used to select Quentin GrovesQuentin Groves-Heart surgery:While undergoing medical tests at the NFL Combine, Groves was discovered to have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, which results in him having a rapid heartbeat because of electrical impulses in the heart taking extra pathways...
). - Tampa Bay traded their own 2009 seventh-round selection to PittsburghPittsburgh SteelersThe Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC...
for Sean MahanSean MahanSean Christopher Mahan is an American football center who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
.
Final roster
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2009 final roster | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
|
Offensive Linemen
Jonathan Compas Jonathan Compas is an American football center who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2009... C Demar Dotson Demar Dotson is an American football offensive lineman for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Southern Mississippi.-External links:**... T Jeff Faine Jeffrey Kalei Faine is an American football center for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns 21st overall in the 2003 NFL Draft... C Davin Joseph Davin Joseph is an American football guard for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the Buccaneers 23rd overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oklahoma.-Early years:Joseph played high school football at Hallandale High School... G James Lee (offensive lineman) James Lee is an American football offensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at South Carolina State.-External links:*... T Shawn Murphy (American football) Shawn Murphy is an American football guard who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fourth round of the 2008 NFL Draft.... G Donald Penn Donald Ward Penn is an American football offensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2006... T Jeremy Trueblood Jeremy Tyler Trueblood is an American football offensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft... T Jeremy Zuttah Jeremy Kwasi Zuttah is an American football offensive lineman for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Rutgers.... G Defensive Linemen
|
Linebackers
Quincy Black Quincy Booker Black , is a linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He attended the University of New Mexico.-High school career:Black attended Kenwood Academy High School in Chicago, where he played linebacker... OLB Geno Hayes Eugene Antonio "Geno" Hayes is an American football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft... OLB Adam Hayward Adam Hayward is an American football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.-Early life:A linebacker at Marina High School, Adam was unnerved by the idea of playing the position of Safety for Colorado State University, He took a year off from football at Colorado to take care of some family issues... OLB Niko Koutouvides Niko Stelios Koutouvides is an American football linebacker, currently with the New England Patriots of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft... ILB Barrett Ruud Barrett James Ruud is an American football linebacker for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Nebraska.... ILB Defensive Backs
Special Teams
|
Reserve Lists
Will Allen (safety) Will Allen is an American football safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft... FS (IR)  B. J. Askew Bobby DeAngelo Askew, Jr. is an American football fullback who is currently a free agent. He played college football as the University of Michigan. He ranks first all-time among Michigan running backs in reception yards.... FB (NF-Inj.) Josh Bidwell Joshua John Bidwell is an American football punter who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the 1999 NFL Draft... P (IR) E. J. Biggers Edjaun Cinclair "E. J." Biggers is an American football cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. Biggers played college football at Western Michigan University.-Early years:... CB (IR) Torrie Cox Torrie Tywan Cox is an American football cornerback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Pittsburgh.... CB (IR) Angelo Crowell Angelo Delvonne Crowell is an American football linebacker for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft... OLB (IR) Xavier Fulton Xavier Allen Fulton is an American football offensive tackle for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Illinois.Fulton has also been a member of the Indianapolis... OT (IR) Earnest Graham Earnest Graham, Jr. is an American football running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League . He was signed by the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2003. He played college football at Florida.... RB/FB (IR) Dirk Johnson Dirk Johnson is an American football punter who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 1998... P (IR) Byron Leftwich Byron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played... QB (IR) Jermaine Phillips Jermaine Phillips is an American football safety who currently plays for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2002 NFL Draft... FS/OLB (IR) Jake Plummer Jason Steven "Jake" Plummer is a former American football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft. He played college football at Arizona State.... QB (Did Not Report) Arron Sears Arron Eugene Sears is an American football guard who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Tennessee.... G (NF-Ill.) Clifton Smith (running back) Clifton Smith, Jr. is an American football running back and return specialist for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2008... RB (IR) Byron Storer Byron Donald Storer is an American football coach and former fullback. He is currently the assistant special teams coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2007... FB (IR) Sammie Stroughter Sammie Stroughter is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State.... WR (IR) Jimmy Wilkerson Jimmy Boyd Wilkerson is an American football defensive end for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft... DE (IR) Rod Wilson Rodriques Wilson is an American football linebacker. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina... ILB (IR) Practice Squad
Rookies in italics 53 Active, 18 Inactive, 8 PS |
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Preseason
| Week | Date | Kickoff | Opponent | Results | Game Site | TV | NFL Recap |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final score | Team record | |||||||
| 1 | Sat. August 15 | 8 pm EDT | at Tennessee Titans 2009 Tennessee Titans season The 2009 Tennessee Titans season is the 50th season for the original American Football League team, their 40th in the NFL, and 13th in Tennessee. The Titans aimed to equal or improve on their 2008 NFL best 13–3 record; however, they lost the first 6 games of that season... |
L 20–27 | 0–1 | LP Field LP Field LP Field is a football stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, United States, owned by the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County.... |
WFLA WFLA-TV WFLA-TV, virtual channel 8, is the NBC-affiliated television station in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida. The station is the flagship station of its owner and operator, Media General. Its transmitter is located in Riverview, Hillsborough County, Florida. WFLA is the only station in the market to be... |
http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=54736&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter |
| 2 | Sat. August 22 | 7:30 pm EDT | at Jacksonville Jaguars 2009 Jacksonville Jaguars season The 2009 Jacksonville Jaguars season was the 15th season for the team in the National Football League. This was the first season for new general manager Gene Smith, who hoped to usher in a "rebuilding" era for the Jaguars franchise. The Jaguars improved upon their 5–11 record in 2008, however did... |
W 24–23 | 1–1 | Jacksonville Municipal Stadium | WFLA WFLA-TV WFLA-TV, virtual channel 8, is the NBC-affiliated television station in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida. The station is the flagship station of its owner and operator, Media General. Its transmitter is located in Riverview, Hillsborough County, Florida. WFLA is the only station in the market to be... |
http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=54748&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter |
| 3 | Thu. August 27 | 8 pm EDT | Miami Dolphins 2009 Miami Dolphins season The 2009 Miami Dolphins season was the organization's 40th season in the National Football League and 44th overall. The Dolphins entered the 2009 season as the reigning AFC East champions after posting an 11–5 record in 2008... |
L 6–10 | 1–2 | Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events... |
Fox Fox Broadcasting Company Fox Broadcasting Company, commonly referred to as Fox Network or simply Fox , is an American commercial broadcasting television network owned by Fox Entertainment Group, part of Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation. Launched on October 9, 1986, Fox was the highest-rated broadcast network in the... |
http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2009082750/2009/PRE3/dolphins@buccaneers/recap |
| 4 | Fri. September 4 | 7 pm EDT | Houston Texans 2009 Houston Texans season The 2009 Houston Texans season is the 8th season for the team in the National Football League. The Texans improved upon their 8–8 record in 2008, claimed their first winning season in franchise history, and 4 straight heartbreaking division losses came back to haunt them, as they narrowly missed... |
L 20–27 | 1–3 | Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events... |
WFLA WFLA-TV WFLA-TV, virtual channel 8, is the NBC-affiliated television station in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida. The station is the flagship station of its owner and operator, Media General. Its transmitter is located in Riverview, Hillsborough County, Florida. WFLA is the only station in the market to be... |
http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2009090450/2009/PRE4/texans@buccaneers/recap |
News
- The Buccaneers announced that they would not return to Disney's Wide World of Sports ComplexDisney's Wide World of Sports ComplexESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is a athletic complex located in the Walt Disney World Resort. The complex includes 9 venues and hosts numerous amateur and professional sporting events throughout the year....
to hold Training Camp, where they had done so from 2002–2008. Training camp instead would be held at the team's regular facilities at One Buc Place. - John LynchJohn Lynch (American football)John Terrence Lynch, Jr. is a former National Football League strong safety and current NFL on Fox color commentator. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Stanford.A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Lynch earned a Super...
joined Chris MyersChris MyersChristopher Patrick "Chris" Myers ) is an American sportscaster.-Biography:With more than 20 years in broadcasting, Chris Myers has covered premiere events, including the Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals, NCAA Final Four, The Masters and U.S...
in the preseason booth for games televised on WFLA-TVWFLA-TVWFLA-TV, virtual channel 8, is the NBC-affiliated television station in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida. The station is the flagship station of its owner and operator, Media General. Its transmitter is located in Riverview, Hillsborough County, Florida. WFLA is the only station in the market to be...
. Dan Lucas served as sideline reporter. - On August 18, free safety Tanard JacksonTanard JacksonTanard Ricardo Jackson is an American football safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
was suspended four regular-season games for violating the NFL Substance Abuse policy. - On August 19, Aqib TalibAqib TalibAqib Talib is an American football cornerback who plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft.-Early years:...
was arrested, accused of simple battery and resisting arrest. - Ten days before the start of the regular season, offensive coordinator Jeff JagodzinskiJeff Jagodzinski-United Football League:-External links:*...
was fired. Quarterbacks coach Greg OlsonGreg Olson (American football)Greg Rex Olson is an American football coach. He is currently the offensive coordinator of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.-Coaching career:...
was elevated into the vacancy.
Regular season
| Week | Date | Kickoff (ET) | Opponent | Results | Game Site | TV | NFL Recap | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final score | Team record | ||||||||
| 1 | September 13 | 1:00 pm | Dallas Cowboys 2009 Dallas Cowboys season The 2009 Dallas Cowboys season is the 50th season for the team in the National Football League. It is the team's first season playing at Cowboys Stadium. Their victory over the Oakland Raiders on November 26 extended their Thanksgiving winning streak to four in a row and also ended a three game... |
L 21–34 | 0–1 | Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium, also known as the "Ray Jay", is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Tampa, Florida. It is home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as the NCAA's South Florida Bulls football team. The stadium seats 65,857 , and it is expandable to 75,000 for special events... |
Fox NFL on FOX NFL on Fox is the brand name of the Fox Broadcasting Company's coverage of the National Football League's National Football Conference games, produced by Fox Sports... |
Recap | |
| 2 | September 20 | 4:05 pm | at Buffalo Bills 2009 Buffalo Bills season The 2009 Buffalo Bills season was the 50th Professional Football season for the original American Football League team, and its 40th in the NFL... |
L 20–33 | 0–2 | Ralph Wilson Stadium Ralph Wilson Stadium Ralph Wilson Stadium is a football stadium, located in the town of Orchard Park, a suburb of Buffalo, New York. It is the home for the Buffalo Bills, of the NFL... |
Fox | Recap | |
| 3 | September 27 | 1:00 pm | New York Giants 2009 New York Giants season The 2009 New York Giants season was the 85th season for the team in the National Football League. It was the team's final season in Giants Stadium; In 2010, the Giants moved into New Meadowlands Stadium. The Giants hoped to improve upon their 12–4 record, avenge their divisional round loss to the... |
L 0–24 | 0–3 | Raymond James Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| 4 | October 4 | 1:00 pm | at Washington Redskins 2009 Washington Redskins season The 2009 Washington Redskins season is the 77th season for the team in the National Football League. They failed to improve upon their 8–8 record from 2008, which resulted in Jim Zorn being fired after two seasons.-Movement:... |
L 13-16 | 0–4 | FedEx Field | Fox | Recap | |
| 5 | October 11 | 1:00 pm | at Philadelphia Eagles 2009 Philadelphia Eagles season The 2009 Philadelphia Eagles season was the 77th season for the team in the National Football League. After advancing to their fifth NFC Championship game in eight years, the Eagles improved upon their 9–6–1 record and second-place finish in the NFC East in their 2008 campaign... |
L 14-33 | 0–5 | Lincoln Financial Field Lincoln Financial Field Lincoln Financial Field is the home stadium of the National Football League's Philadelphia Eagles. It has a seating capacity of 68,532 . It is located in South Philadelphia on Pattison Avenue between 11th and 10th streets, also aside I-95 as part of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex... |
Fox | Recap | |
| 6 | October 18 | 1:00 pm | Carolina Panthers 2009 Carolina Panthers season The 2009 Carolina Panthers season was the 15th season for the team in the National Football League. They failed to improve on their franchise-record 12–4 season in 2008 and also failed to make the playoffs.-2009 NFL Draft:-Trades:... |
L 21–28 | 0–6 | Raymond James Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| 7 | October 25 | 1:00 pm | New England Patriots 2009 New England Patriots season The 2009 New England Patriots season was the 40th season for the team in the National Football League and 50th season overall. They finished with a 10–6 record and a division title before losing to the Baltimore Ravens in the playoffs.... |
L 7-35 | 0–7 | Wembley Stadium Wembley Stadium The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007... (London, England) |
CBS NFL on CBS The NFL on CBS is the brand name of the CBS television network's coverage of the National Football League's American Football Conference games, produced by CBS Sports.-Market coverage and television policies:... |
Recap | |
| 8 | Bye Week Bye (sports) A bye, in sports and other competitive activities, most commonly refers to the practice of allowing a player or team to advance to the next round of a playoff tournament without playing... |
||||||||
| 9 | November 8 | 1:00 pm | Green Bay Packers 2009 Green Bay Packers season The 2009 Green Bay Packers season was the 89th season in the National Football League for the Green Bay Packers and the 91st season for the team overall... |
W 38–28 | 1–7 | Raymond James Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| 10 | November 15 | 1:00 pm | at Miami Dolphins 2009 Miami Dolphins season The 2009 Miami Dolphins season was the organization's 40th season in the National Football League and 44th overall. The Dolphins entered the 2009 season as the reigning AFC East champions after posting an 11–5 record in 2008... |
L 23–25 | 1–8 | LandShark Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| 11 | November 22 | 1:00 pm | New Orleans Saints 2009 New Orleans Saints season The 2009 New Orleans Saints season is the franchise's 43rd season in the National Football League and the most successful in franchise history in which they won Super Bowl XLIV. The Saints recorded a franchise record 13 victories, an improvement on their 8–8 record and fourth place finish in the... |
L 7–38 | 1–9 | Raymond James Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| 12 | November 29 | 1:00 pm | at Atlanta Falcons 2009 Atlanta Falcons season The 2009 Atlanta Falcons season was the 44th season for the team in the National Football League. The team looked to match or improve upon their 11–5 record from 2008 and return to the playoffs, however the Falcons were eliminated from contention in Week 15... |
L 17–20 | 1–10 | Georgia Dome Georgia Dome The Georgia Dome is a domed stadium located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, between downtown to the east and Vine City to the west. It is primarily the home stadium for the NFL Atlanta Falcons and the NCAA Division I FCS Georgia State Panthers football team. It is owned and operated by the... |
Fox | Recap | |
| 13 | December 6 | 1:00 pm | at Carolina Panthers 2009 Carolina Panthers season The 2009 Carolina Panthers season was the 15th season for the team in the National Football League. They failed to improve on their franchise-record 12–4 season in 2008 and also failed to make the playoffs.-2009 NFL Draft:-Trades:... |
L 6–16 | 1–11 | Bank of America Stadium Bank of America Stadium Bank of America Stadium is a 73,778-seat football stadium located on of land in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. It is the home facility of the Carolina Panthers NFL franchise. It also hosts the annual Belk Bowl which features teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference and the Big East... |
Fox | Recap | |
| 14 | December 13 | 1:00 pm | New York Jets 2009 New York Jets season The 2009 New York Jets season was the 50th season for the club and the 40th season in the National Football League and the last season at Giants Stadium. While they did not improve their 9–7 record from 2008, this time the team headed to the playoffs. The Jets fired head coach Eric Mangini on... |
L 3-26 | 1–12 | Raymond James Stadium | CBS | Recap | |
| 15 | December 20 | 4:15 pm | at Seattle Seahawks 2009 Seattle Seahawks season The 2009 Seattle Seahawks season was the 34th season for the team in the National Football League. The Seahawks improved in Jim Mora's first season as their head coach, after a disappointing 4–12 record and a 3rd place finish in what was Mike Holmgren's final season coaching the team... |
W 24–7 | 2–12 | Qwest Field | Fox | Recap | |
| 16 | December 27 | 1:00 pm | at New Orleans Saints 2009 New Orleans Saints season The 2009 New Orleans Saints season is the franchise's 43rd season in the National Football League and the most successful in franchise history in which they won Super Bowl XLIV. The Saints recorded a franchise record 13 victories, an improvement on their 8–8 record and fourth place finish in the... |
W 20–17 OT | 3–12 | Louisiana Superdome Louisiana Superdome The Mercedes-Benz Superdome, previously known as the Louisiana Superdome and colloquially known as the Superdome, is a sports and exhibition arena located in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA... |
Fox | Recap | |
| 17 | January 3 | 1:00 pm | Atlanta Falcons 2009 Atlanta Falcons season The 2009 Atlanta Falcons season was the 44th season for the team in the National Football League. The team looked to match or improve upon their 11–5 record from 2008 and return to the playoffs, however the Falcons were eliminated from contention in Week 15... |
L 10-20 | 3–13 | Raymond James Stadium | Fox | Recap | |
| Division games are in bold text. | |||||||||
- Tan indicates the International SeriesNFL International SeriesBeginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
game in LondonLondonLondon is the capital city of :England and the :United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its...
. Tampa Bay was the designated home team. - Orange indicates designated throwback uniformThrowback uniformThrowback uniforms and jerseys are one-time or limited-time variations on a sports team's uniforms styled to resemble uniforms from that team's past. They have proven popular in all major pro and college sports in the USA, not only with fans, but with the teams' marketing and merchandising...
game.
Week 1: vs. Dallas Cowboys
The first regular season game for head coach Raheem MorrisRaheem Morris
Raheem Morris is the head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was hired by the Buccaneers as head coach on January 17, 2009 after previous head coach Jon Gruden was fired after seven seasons....
saw the Buccaneers fall to the Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are a professional American football franchise which plays in the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League . They are headquartered in Valley Ranch in Irving, Texas, a suburb of Dallas...
by a score of 34–21. Running back "Cadillac" Williams
Carnell Williams
Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
returned as a starter, and rushed for 97 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback Byron Leftwich
Byron Leftwich
Byron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played...
threw for 276 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. The Buccaneer defense, however, gave up three big plays in the loss.
Dallas quarterback Tony Romo
Tony Romo
Antonio Ramiro "Tony" Romo is a professional American football quarterback in the NFL for the Dallas Cowboys. Romo's career passer rating - at 95.8 - ranks third-best all time. Tony Romo didn't play in the regular season in 2003, 2004, or 2005...
threw for a career-best 353 yards. Three long touchdown passes (66, 80, 44 yards respectively) put the game out of reach. Early in the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay closed the deficit to 20–14, but Romo's 80-yard catch & run to Patrick Crayton
Patrick Crayton
Patrick Jamel Crayton is an American football wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was a originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys...
put the Cowboys ahead for good.
On specials teams, kicker Mike Nugent
Mike Nugent
Mike Nugent is an American football placekicker for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
had one field goal attempt blocked, and shanked another.
Week 2: at Buffalo Bills
The Buccaneers made their first regular season trip in franchise history to Ralph Wilson StadiumRalph Wilson Stadium
Ralph Wilson Stadium is a football stadium, located in the town of Orchard Park, a suburb of Buffalo, New York. It is the home for the Buffalo Bills, of the NFL...
to meet the Bills
Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills are a professional football team based in Buffalo, New York. They are currently members of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. The Buccaneers had played only one time at Buffalo, a preseason game in 1977. Byron Leftwich
Byron Leftwich
Byron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played...
threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns, but the Bills held Tampa Bay to only 57 yards rushing, and the Buccaneers had 13 penalties for 112 yard in the loss.
Leading 20–7 with less than a minute remaining in the first half, Buffalo looked to score once more. However, Fred Jackson fumbled at the Tampa Bay 16, and Sabby Piscitelli
Sabby Piscitelli
Sabatino "The Goat" Piscitelli is an American football safety for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
recovered. Piscitelli ran 72 yards to the Buffalo 8, and after a touchdown on the next play, Tampa Bay trimmed the deficit to 20–14.
Late in the fourth quarter, Leftwich
Byron Leftwich
Byron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played...
led the Buccaneers on 14-play scoring drive, twice converting on 4th down. The touchdown could have brought the Buccaners within 8 points, but a failed two-point conversion
Two-point conversion
In American and Canadian football, a two-point conversion is a play a team attempts instead of kicking a one-point convert immediately after it scores a touchdown...
ultimately foiled the comeback. Tampa Bay dropped to 0–2, and lost their sixth consecutive game, dating back to 2008.
Week 3: vs. New York Giants
Still looking for their first win of the season, the Buccaneers went home for a Week 3 duel with the New York GiantsNew York Giants
The New York Giants are a professional American football team based in East Rutherford, New Jersey, representing the New York City metropolitan area. The Giants are currently members of the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. Tampa Bay would trail early in the first quarter with Giants running back Brandon Jacobs
Brandon Jacobs
-New York Giants:Going into the 2006 season Jacobs stated that he studied film of famed power running back Eddie George in an effort to refine his running style. George, like Jacobs, was a large, power running back. In the 2006 season, Jacobs carried the ball 96 times for 423 yards and nine...
getting a 6-yard touchdown run. The Buccaneers'deficit would climb in the second quarter with quarterback Eli Manning
Eli Manning
Eli Nelson Manning is an American football quarterback for the New York Giants of the National Football League. He is the younger brother of NFL quarterback Peyton Manning and the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning...
's 4-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Steve Smith
Steve Smith (New York Giants)
Steve Smith is an American football wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League . He was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
.
New York continued its dominance in the third quarter with kicker Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence James Henry Tynes is an American football placekicker for the New York Giants. He was originally signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2001.-Early years:...
nailing a 26-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Giants would close out the game with Manning's 18-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Sinorice Moss
Sinorice Moss
Sinorice Travonce Moss is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Moss played college football at the University of Miami....
.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–3.
Week 4: at Washington Redskins
Following their shutout home loss to the Giants, the Buccaneers flew to FedEx FieldFedExField
FedExField is a football stadium located in an unincorporated area near the Capital Beltway in Prince George's County, Maryland, United States, near the site of the old Capital Centre . FedExField is the home of the Washington Redskins football team...
for a Week 4 duel with the Washington Redskins
Washington Redskins
The Washington Redskins are a professional American football team and members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team plays at FedExField in Landover, Maryland, while its headquarters and training facility are at Redskin Park in Ashburn,...
. Due to Byron Leftwich
Byron Leftwich
Byron Antron Leftwich is an American football quarterback in the National Football League who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars seventh overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Marshall University.Leftwich has also played...
's poor performance during the first three weeks of the season, quarterback Josh Johnson
Josh Johnson (American football)
Josh Johnson is an American football quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He played college football quarterback for the University of San Diego Toreros. He was selected by the Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
would get his first career start.
Tampa Bay would come out firing in the first quarter with Johnson's 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
, followed by kicker Mike Nugent
Mike Nugent
Mike Nugent is an American football placekicker for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
's 37-yard field goal in the second quarter. However, the Redskins came back with a vengeance in the third quarter. Kicker Shaun Suisham
Shaun Suisham
Shaun Christopher Suisham is a Canadian placekicker of American football for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League . He was signed by the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2005...
would get a 42-yard field goal, followed by quarterback Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell
Jason Campbell is an American football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
's 17-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley (with a blocked PAT) and a 59-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Santana Moss
Santana Moss
Santana Terrell Moss is an American football wide receiver for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League. He played college football at the University of Miami.-Early years:...
. The Bucs tried to rally in the fourth quarter as Nugent nailed a 22-yard field goal, but Washington's defense would prevent any further progress.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–4.
Week 5: at Philadelphia Eagles
Hoping for their first win of the season, the Buccaneers flew to Lincoln Financial FieldLincoln Financial Field
Lincoln Financial Field is the home stadium of the National Football League's Philadelphia Eagles. It has a seating capacity of 68,532 . It is located in South Philadelphia on Pattison Avenue between 11th and 10th streets, also aside I-95 as part of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex...
for a Week 5 duel with the Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are a professional American football team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They are members of the East Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. Tampa Bay would immediately trail in the first quarter as Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb
Donovan McNabb
Donovan Jamal McNabb is an American football quarterback who is currently a free agent. He was the Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback from 1999 to 2009 and spent the 2010 season with the Washington Redskins and a portion of the 2011 season with the Minnesota Vikings. In college, McNabb played...
hooked up with wide receiver Jeremy Maclin
Jeremy Maclin
-2009 NFL Draft:Maclin was considered a top National Football League prospect following his second season, and roommate Sean Weatherspoon hoped to convince Maclin to return for his junior year instead of leaving Missouri for the 2009 NFL Draft. Weatherspoon’s efforts were unsuccessful, and on...
on a 51-yard touchdown pass. Philadelphia would increase their lead in the second quarter with McNabb completing a 20-yard touchdown pass to fullback Leonard Weaver. The Buccaneers would get on the board with quarterback Josh Johnson
Josh Johnson (American football)
Josh Johnson is an American football quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He played college football quarterback for the University of San Diego Toreros. He was selected by the Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
's 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kellen Winslow
Kellen Winslow II
Kellen Boswell Winslow, II is an American football tight end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns sixth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft...
, but the Eagles would close out the first half with McNabb finding Maclin again on a 40-yard touchdown 40-yard touchdown pass.
In the third quarter, Philadelphia would increase their lead with running back Brian Westbrook
Brian Westbrook
Brian Collins Westbrook is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 2002 NFL Draft after playing college football at Villanova...
getting a 7-yard touchdown run. The Eagles would then start off the fourth quarter with kicker David Akers
David Akers
David Roy Akers is a left footed American football placekicker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Atlanta Falcons in 1997. He played college football at Louisville....
nailing a 44-yard field goal. Tampa Bay tried to rally as Johnson connected with Winslow again on a 9-yard touchdown pass, but Philadelphia closed out the game with defensive end Darren Howard
Darren Howard
Darren M. Howard is an American football defensive end. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the second round of the 2000 NFL Draft. He played college football at Kansas State.Howard has also played for the Philadelphia Eagles....
tackling running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
Carnell Williams
Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
in his endzone for a safety.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–5.
Week 6: vs. Carolina Panthers
Still trying to acquire their first win of the season, the Buccaneers went home for a Week 6 NFC South duel with the Carolina PanthersCarolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion...
. Tampa Bay sailed off to a good start in the first quarter with a 20-yard touchdown run from running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
Carnell Williams
Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
. However, the Panthers would tie the game in the second quarter with running back DeAngelo Williams
DeAngelo Williams
DeAngelo Williams is an American football running back for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League. Williams was drafted by the Panthers 27th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft...
getting a 20-yard touchdown run.
During the second quarter, punt returner Clifton Smith left the game due to a concussion caused by Panthers cornerback Dante Wesley
Dante Wesley
Dante Julius Wesley is an American football cornerback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
ramming into Smith. Wesley was flagged for unnecessary roughness and was ejected.
Carolina would take the lead in the third quarter with quarterback Jake Delhomme
Jake Delhomme
Jake Christopher Delhomme is an American football quarterback for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. Delhomme played college football at Louisiana-Lafayette before being signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 1997...
completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jeff King
Jeff King (American football)
Jeffery "Jeff" W. King is an American football tight end in the National Football League with the Arizona Cardinals. He played college football and basketball for Virginia Tech.-Football:...
and running back Jonathan Stewart
Jonathan Stewart
Jonathan Creon Stewart is an American football running back for the Carolina Panthers of the NFL. He was selected by the Panthers in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Oregon.-High school career:Stewart is the career leading rusher in...
getting a 26-yard touchdown, yet the Buccaneers immediately got themselves back into the game as rookie wide receiver Sammie Stroughter
Sammie Stroughter
Sammie Stroughter is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State....
returned the kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay tied the game with safety Tanard Jackson
Tanard Jackson
Tanard Ricardo Jackson is an American football safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
's 26-yard interception return for a touchdown. However, the Panthers delivered the final blow with Williams' 1-yard touchdown run.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 0–6.
Week 7: vs. New England Patriots
Still on the hunt for their first win of the season, the Buccaneers flew to Wembley StadiumWembley Stadium
The original Wembley Stadium, officially known as the Empire Stadium, was a football stadium in Wembley, a suburb of north-west London, standing on the site now occupied by the new Wembley Stadium that opened in 2007...
for Week 7's NFL International
NFL International Series
Beginning with the 2005 season, the National Football League has hosted regular season American football games held outside the United States in a series known as the International Series.-Background:...
game with the New England Patriots
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
. For this game, Tampa Bay was listed as the home team.
The Buccaneers would trail early in the first quarter as Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather
Brandon Meriweather
Brandon Meriweather is an American football safety for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 24th overall in the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Miami.-Early years:Meriweather's mother gave birth to him when...
returned an interception 39 yards for a touchdown, followed by quarterback Tom Brady
Tom Brady
Thomas Edward Patrick "Tom" Brady, Jr. is an American football quarterback for the New England Patriots of the National Football League . After playing college football at Michigan, Brady was drafted by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft.He has played in four Super Bowls,...
finding wide receiver Wes Welker
Wes Welker
-San Diego Chargers :Welker, who was not drafted during the 2004 NFL Draft, signed as an undrafted free agent with the San Diego Chargers. Welker made the Chargers out of training camp, but was released after the first game of the season.-2004 season:...
on a 14-yard touchdown pass. New England increased their lead in the second quarter as Brady completed a 54-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Sam Aiken
Sam Aiken
Samuel Aiken is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fourth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
, yet Tampa Bay would get onto the board with quarterback Josh Johnson
Josh Johnson (American football)
Josh Johnson is an American football quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He played college football quarterback for the University of San Diego Toreros. He was selected by the Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft...
completing a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
.
However, the Patriots took control throughout the second half as Brady hooked up with tight end Benjamin Watson
Benjamin Watson
Benjamin Watson is an American football tight end for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 32nd overall in the 2004 NFL draft. He played college football at Georgia.-Early years:Watson attended Northwestern High School in Rock Hill, South...
on a 35-yard touchdown pass, while running back Laurence Maroney
Laurence Maroney
Laurence Maroney is an American football running back who is currently a free agent in the National Football League. He was drafted by the New England Patriots 21st overall in the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Minnesota.-Early years:Maroney attended Normandy Senior High School in St...
got himself a 1-yard touchdown run.
With the loss, the Buccaneers went into their bye week at 0–7.
Week 9: vs. Green Bay Packers
Coming off their bye week, the Buccaneers went home, donned their throwback uniforms, and played a Week 9 duel with the Green Bay PackersGreen Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are an American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Packers are the current NFL champions...
. This game would be the first career start for rookie quarterback Josh Freeman
Josh Freeman
-2009:On November 8, 2009, Freeman started his first professional game at home against the Green Bay Packers. The Buccaneers won, ending an 11-game losing streak. He completed 14 out of 31 passes for 205 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 INT, including a fourth down touchdown pass to rookie Sammie...
.
Tampa Bay would trail early in the first quarter as Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Charles Rodgers is an American football quarterback for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League . Rodgers was selected in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Packers...
completed a 74-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver James Jones
James Jones (wide receiver)
James Deandre Jones is an American football wide receiver with the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the Packers in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
. The Buccaneers would get on the board with Freeman finding running back Derrick Ward
Derrick Ward
Derrick LaRon Ward is an American football running back for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at Fresno State University and Ottawa University...
on a 6-yard touchdown pass, but Green Bay answered with running back Ryan Grant
Ryan Grant
Ryan Brett Grant is a running back for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League . He was originally signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2005 but was traded to the Packers shortly before the 2007 season in exchange for a future sixth-round draft pick...
getting a 2-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, Tampa Bay fired back as cornerback Ronde Barber
Ronde Barber
Jamael Orondé "Rondé" Barber is an American football cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers...
returned a blocked punt 31 yards for a touchdown, but the Packers replied with Rodgers hooking up with wide receiver Donald Driver
Donald Driver
Donald Jerome Driver is an American football wide receiver and children's author. He plays for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League...
on a 32-yad touchdown pass. The Buccaneers would close out the half with kicker Connor Barth
Connor Barth
Connor Thomas Barth is an American football placekicker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at North Carolina....
booting a 38-yard field goal.
After a scoreless third quarter, Green Bay would strike again in the fourth quarter as Rodgers got a 12-yard touchdown run. Afterwards, Tampa Bay took the lead as Freeman completed a pair of 7-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kellen Winslow
Kellen Winslow II
Kellen Boswell Winslow, II is an American football tight end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns sixth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft...
(with a failed two-point conversion) and rookie wide receiver Sammie Stroughter
Sammie Stroughter
Sammie Stroughter is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State....
(with a successful two-point conversion pass to wide receiver Michael Clayton). The Packers tried to get a comeback, yet safety Tanard Jackson
Tanard Jackson
Tanard Ricardo Jackson is an American football safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
came through with a 35-yard interception return from a touchdown.
With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 1–7.
Week 10: at Miami Dolphins
Coming off their home win over the Packers, the Buccaneers flew to Land Shark Stadium for a Week 10 interconference duel with their in-state rival, the Miami DolphinsMiami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins are a Professional football team based in the Miami metropolitan area in Florida. The team is part of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
. In the first quarter, Tampa Bay struck first as kicker Connor Barth
Connor Barth
Connor Thomas Barth is an American football placekicker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at North Carolina....
got a 51-yard field goal. However, the Dolphins would answer with a 1-yard touchdown run from running back Ronnie Brown
Ronnie Brown
Ronnie G. Brown, Jr. is an American football running back for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League . After graduating from Cartersville High School in Georgia, Brown attended Auburn University to play college football for the Auburn Tigers...
(with a blocked PAT). Miami would add onto their lead in the second quarter with a 49-yard field goal from kicker Dan Carpenter
Dan Carpenter
Daniel Roy Carpenter is an American football placekicker for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League...
. The Buccaneers would reply with Barth's 50-yard field goal, but the Dolphins would take a huge lead as quarterback Chad Henne
Chad Henne
Chad Steven Henne is an American football quarterback for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football League.He graduated from Wilson Senior High School and attended the University of Michigan...
completed a 5-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kory Sperry
Kory Sperry
Kory Kalani Kahaunaele Sperry is an American football tight end for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League. He was signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Colorado State.-Miami Dolphins:In Week 10 of the 2009 NFL season,...
, followed by Carpenter getting a 30-yard field goal.
Tampa Bay would get the only score of the third quarter as Barth nailed a 54-yard field goal. The Buccaneers would creep closer in the fourth quarter as rookie quarterback Josh Freeman
Josh Freeman
-2009:On November 8, 2009, Freeman started his first professional game at home against the Green Bay Packers. The Buccaneers won, ending an 11-game losing streak. He completed 14 out of 31 passes for 205 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 INT, including a fourth down touchdown pass to rookie Sammie...
completed a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Maurice Stovall
Maurice Stovall
Maurice Aurilius Stovall is an American football wide receiver for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Notre Dame.-Early years:Stovall grew up in Philadelphia and went...
, yet Miami continued to have their way as Carpenter booted a 45-yard field goal. Tampa Bay would take the lead as running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
Carnell Williams
Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
got a 1-yard touchdown run, but the Dolphins got the last laugh as Carpenter made the game-winning 25-yard field goal.
With the tough loss, the Buccaneers fell to 1–8.
Week 11: vs. New Orleans Saints
Week 12: at Atlanta Falcons
Trying to avoid a 3 game losing streak, the Buccaneers flew to Georgia Dome for an NFC South rivalry match against the Atlanta FalconsAtlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
.
In he first quarter the Bucs trailed early as kicker Jason Elam
Jason Elam
Jason Elam is a retired American football placekicker. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Hawaii....
nailed a 45-yard field goal, and then with QB Chris Redman
Chris Redman
Chris James Redman is an American football quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Louisville.Redman earned a Super Bowl ring with the...
making a 22-yard touchdown pass to RB Jerious Norwood
Jerious Norwood
-2006:In 2006, Norwood played in 14 games and ranked third on the team with 633 rushing yards on 99 carries with two touchdowns to go along with 12 receptions for 102 yards. He also returned 13 kickoffs for 320 yards and tallied three special teams tackles.Norwood was the first player in NFL...
. Then the Bucs replied with QB Josh Freeman
Josh Freeman
-2009:On November 8, 2009, Freeman started his first professional game at home against the Green Bay Packers. The Buccaneers won, ending an 11-game losing streak. He completed 14 out of 31 passes for 205 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 INT, including a fourth down touchdown pass to rookie Sammie...
making a 42-yard touchdown pass to WR Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant
Antonio Bryant is an American football wide receiver who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
, then kicker Connor Barth
Connor Barth
Connor Thomas Barth is an American football placekicker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at North Carolina....
made a 39-yard field goal. In the third quarter the Bucs took the lead when Freeman hooked up with Cadillac Williams on an 8-yard touchdown pass. Then the Falcons lost the margin when kicker Jason Elam
Jason Elam
Jason Elam is a retired American football placekicker. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played college football at Hawaii....
got a 37-yard field goal. In the final seconds of the fourth quarter the Bucs fell behind when Redman made a 5-yard touchdown pass to WR Roddy White
Roddy White
Sharod Lamor White is an American football wide receiver playing for the Atlanta Falcons in the National Football League...
.
With the loss, the Buccaneers fell to 1–10 and stay winless on the road after 5 visits. Additionally, the team was officially eliminated from postseason contention.
Week 13: at Carolina Panthers
Week 14: vs. New York Jets
The Jets were without starting quarterback Mark Sanchez, but the Buccaneers were unable to take advantage. The Tampa Bay defense allowed 175 yards rushing, and quarterback Josh Freeman, coming off a five interception game the previous week, struggled to read New York Jets coach Rex RyanRex Ryan
Rex Ryan is an American football head coach for the New York Jets of the National Football League . After serving as an assistant coach for twenty-two years, Ryan attained his first head coaching job in the NFL with the Jets in 2009...
's exotic blitzes. Freeman finishing the day with three interceptions and a passer rating of just 12.1, well below his season average of 59.8.
Week 15: at Seattle Seahawks
Coming off their home loss to the Jets, the Bucs flew to Qwest Field for a week 15 duel against the Seattle SeahawksSeattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team...
. After a scoreless first quarter, Seattle got on the board first with QB Matt Hasselbeck
Matt Hasselbeck
Matthew Michael Hasselbeck is a National Football League quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft, and traded to Seattle in 2001. After becoming the starter in 2003, Hasselbeck led Seattle to six playoff appearances and...
's 29 yard pass to tight end John Carlson. The Bucs got on the board with Connor Barth
Connor Barth
Connor Thomas Barth is an American football placekicker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at North Carolina....
's 28 yard field goal to end the first half.
In the third quarter, Tampa Bay took the lead after a 45 yard field goal and a 22 yard touchdown pass by QB Josh Freeman
Josh Freeman
-2009:On November 8, 2009, Freeman started his first professional game at home against the Green Bay Packers. The Buccaneers won, ending an 11-game losing streak. He completed 14 out of 31 passes for 205 yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and 1 INT, including a fourth down touchdown pass to rookie Sammie...
to running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams
Carnell Williams
Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams is an American football running back for the St. Louis Rams of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft...
, set up by a Tanard Jackson
Tanard Jackson
Tanard Ricardo Jackson is an American football safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
interception. The Buccaneers further extended their lead with a 28 yard pass to running back Derrick Ward
Derrick Ward
Derrick LaRon Ward is an American football running back for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at Fresno State University and Ottawa University...
, with a successful two point conversion. In the fourth quarter, Barth kicked another field goal for 39 yards. Seattle tried to rally, but Hasselbeck threw an interception (his fourth) in the end zone to cornerback Elbert Mack
Elbert Mack
Elbert Mack is an American football cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He finished his college football career at Troy after playing his first two years of college ball at Butler...
for a touchback.
With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 2–12. Not only was it their first road win since November 23, 2008, it also marked their first win on the west coast since winning Super Bowl XXXVII
Super Bowl XXXVII
Super Bowl XXXVII was an American football game played on January 26, 2003 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California to decide the National Football League champion following the 2002 regular season...
in San Diego and their first win in Seattle since 1999.
Week 16: at New Orleans Saints
The Saints dominated the first quarter and entered halftime riding on a 17–3 lead. Tampa Bay scored two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, including a 77-yard kick return by Micheal Spurlock, to tie the game at 17. As time expired, Garrett Hartley attempted a 37 yard field goal that would have salvaged the game for the Saints, but the kick hooked left. In overtime, Tampa Bay won the coin toss, received the kickoff, and drove down the field to win the game with a field goal, for a final score of 20–17.This was the first time in franchise history that the Bucs defeated the eventual Super Bowl champions.
Week 17: vs. Atlanta Falcons
Scores by quarter
Awards
- Week 6: Sammie StroughterSammie StroughterSammie Stroughter is an American football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State....
– NFC Special Teams Player of the Week - Week 9: Clifton SmithClifton Smith (running back)Clifton Smith, Jr. is an American football running back and return specialist for the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2008...
– NFC Special Teams Player of the Week - Week 16: Michael Spurlock – NFC Special Teams Player of the Week