Its a funny feeling really, this 2011 offseason. Expectations are high, perhaps more than they have been since 2008.
But 2008 was the last year for this era of Buccaneer football that began with new uniforms in 1997 and a Super Bowl Championship in 2002. The Bucs were 9-3 in ’08, but lost 4 games in a row and missed the playoffs. They were in discussion for the No.2 seed and home Bye Week in the playoffs, then they collapsed. The defense collapsed, giving up 301 yards rushing to a division opponent.
Jon Gruden was fired, as was Bruce Allen GM. Everyone always thought they were a package deal, then we found out!
We all know the rest, the hiring of Raheem Morris, the cutting of Derrick Brooks, then finally a little hope as the Bucs made a move and traded for Kellen Winslow Jr.
Re-live with me now those tumultuous events of a few offseasons ago. Going into ’09 there was uncertainty. Going into 2010 their was apathy. Now, finally again, we can feel good about being Bucs fans. We have a franchise QB that is winning games in the 4th QTR at a John Elway pace, and a running back and pair of wide receivers that are amazing.
With thanks to Buccaneers.com who posted these clips and news conferences on their website, you can watch them all strung together for the first time.
You can watch the video in your browser by clicking here…
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