After spending part of the noon hour talking to the Bucs players, here are some observations.

Quarterback Jeff Garcia has not been apart of this Bucs-Carolina rivalry, but he has an ace in the hole.  Garcia has had success against Carolina, unlike the Bucs.  Tampa Bay has lost seven of the last eight games.  Garcia said the key is to be patient.  If things don't go right early, don't panic!  With his experience, and helmsmanship, there will be no panic.

Talking with Derrick Brooks, the key to success never changes, only the opponent.  The Bucs have won the turnover battle the past two weeks, resulting in wins.  As for not being able to prepare for Carolina's quarterback, (Jake Delhomme is iffy for Sunday, David Carr may get the start) Brooks says it's not a problem.  They never prepare for personnel, they prepare for the scheme's a team runs on offense.

Of course, this game is for the NFC South Division lead.  Plus this game is on the road. Garcia said he would like to see this team get off to a fast start, on the very first series.  To control the emotions of the crowd, controls the tempo, the momentum, you control everything.

So here are the keys for the Bucs Sunday at Carolina.

      1. Get the early lead.  Be explosive in the 1st quarter. If not, don't panic!

      2. Win the turnover battle

      3. Show character and play for 60 minutes, nothing less

Tom Korun