I know your thinking - "Here we go again."  Just about every shortcoming a season ago resurfaced in yesterday's seasoning opening loss to Seattle.  For the sake of sanity, let's take a step back and put this game in perspective.

If you were watching SPORTSZONE the week before yesterday's season opener, I cautioned you that the Bucs defense would have to carry this team until the offense got it's act together.  They did about as well as you can expect against a team like Seattle on the road.  However, Monte's group did give up a couple big plays, specifically the 3rd and 14 conversion that set up a Seattle TD.  That is inexcuseable, and will cost you football games week in and week out.  Expect situational personnel changes to occur this week against New Orleans.

Special teams was flat out poor.  Good returns called back because of penalities, big returns by Seattle setting up great field position.  This unit played a key role in the Bucs loss.

The offense still can't finish. Two redzone drives, long drives at that, stalled.  In my estimation, I suggest that Jon Gruden begins to receive serious input from Garcia once inside the money zone.  A 6-nothing first half lead should have been 10-0 at worst.  This area needed improvement, and it's not the player personnel were talking about here.  It's play management.

Injuries - I don't even have to wait for the verdict on Cadillac.  He's not playing against New Orleans.  That leaves the tailback duties to Pittman and Graham, with B.J. Askew moving to #1 fullback.  Not promising.  The Bucs should bring up Kenneth Darby from the practice squad, but roll the dice if they do.  Once Caddy gets healthy, someone has to go on waivers, and that player will likely be Darby.  Will he make it through waivers a second time?

David Boston foot injury during pregame warmups - Are you kidding me!  The Bucs need this guy, providing this DUI thing goes away.  If not, David Boston goes away.

Brian Kelly's groin injury - This one is the most critical.  He will be targeted by the Saints this week if he plays. 

Jeff Garcia's momentary bell ringing.  Memo to the offensive line.  PROTECT! Memo to Garcia. SLIDE!

In conclusion, this week game against New Orleans is a must win.  I'm not kidding here. This first five game stretch is critical.  The Bucs need to win at least two of them.  New Orleans appears to be the best shot.  More coming your way later in the week.

Tom Korun