So the latest answer to the decimated Buccaneer running game is Zack Crockett.

Yes, the former Seminole who was an unemployed 13-year veteran.  But he knows Gruden and he knows Gruden's system.  Crockett will be a backup to BJ Askew and Ernest Graham...nothing more. 

Did you really think the Bucs were going to find a starting running back in a trade?  What team is willing to trade a player that could be a starting running back?  Any player traded at this time of year is discarded...not traded.  With that in mind, here's hoping the Buccaneers don't give up a draft pick for any running back available. Not worth it.

The Bucs should have received a lesson on what makes a running game go in the loss to Indy.  The Colts had a first-year player from New Mexico State ..run for 121 yards and 2 touchdowns on the one-time feared Buccaneer defense.  It wasn't about Colts running back Kenton Keith.  It was about the Colts offensive line.  If the Bucs can work a trade for an offensive lineman to replace the injured Luke Pettigout, then ..you are talking.  That being said, the hardest part to acquire at the trade deadline is offensive lineman. Again the same reasons as mentioned earlier.

But, the NFC South has never been more up for grabs than right now.  The Saints are winless.  Atlanta is a mess.  Carolina may have more injury troubles than the Bucs.  The Bucs need to pull out all the stops to win this division -- but you don't have to give up the future.  Chances are the Bucs can win the division by simply playing well.  That may be easier said than done.  Al Keck