Golden Era Football League - Bucs Blog (1980-1986)

[MIJB#19]

Where's the pre-season update?

[Dutch]

Tampa, FL - This just in from One Buc Place in sunny Tampa. They're shitty. More later.

[Senator]

You offered no challenge. My 13 points surely humbled any will to compete.

[Dutch]

The 11-yard scamper by ex-Buc RB Wilbur Montgomery in the 1st quarter really took the wind out of our sails apparently.

Imagine him scoring and then 46 guys looking down at the inactive bench--seeing rookie RB Joe Morris nursing his swollen elbow--and giving out a collective sigh.

It's hard to overcome that kind of demoralizatoin.

[Dutch]

Tampa, FL - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers--winless in the pre-season-- didn't exactly light the GEFL on fire with their backups but regardless, they are ready for 1982 (kinda like Daivd Winters, eh?)

The results of the pre-season games were dissappionting and the injureis to key young talent was a tough pill to swallow. It's always a tough situation each pre-season. Meaningless games? Mostly. But there is always room to improve your young talent by getting them experience.

The big downside to playing time is the sometimes forgotten fact that football is a violent contact sport. Players get hurt. And the Bucs were no exception.

A team that prides itself on it's offense, it will go into the opening game short three key players. 1st round pick RB Joe Morris is nursing a sore elbow and will watch the opening game from the sidelines. Last year's first round pick WR Cris Collinsworth is also sidelined with a bad elbow. And last year's surprising young 2nd rounder WR/KR/PR will be out 8 weeks with a broken clavicle.

So with those injuries, you either get out of the way or you soldier on and deal with it. And the Bucs are ready to show that they have the depth at the skill positions to deal with bad luck.

So the opening game will lack RB Joe Morris, WR Cris Collinsworth, and WR Mark Nichols. But RB Chuck Muncie and young rookie WR Eugene Goodlow are ready to step up to the plate and take over some of the starting duties.

Actually, for Chuck Muncie, it's picking up where he left off. He was replaced as the starter this year on paper, but he gets a chance to go out on the field and give it best once again. And having gained nearly 3,000 yards rushing in his first two seasons, it's not like the coaching staff is worried about his ability.

So the Bucs took some dings in the pre-season, they lost every game to go along with that, but they are ready to take the field and prove the pre-season is just that...pre-season. Now it's time for the big boys to play. And the Buccaneers are ready!

[Dutch]

	OFFENSE
Named Starters for 1982
Offense	Name	CUR	FUT	EXP
Quarterback	Lynn Dickey	G	VG	10
Running Back	Joe Morris ( r ) -OUT	F	G	R
Flanker	John Stallworth	VG	VG	9
Split End	Mark Nichols - OUT	F	G	2
Slot Receiver	Chris Collinsworth - OUT	G	G	2
Tight End	Billy Joe Dupree	G	G	10
Fullback	Rob Carpenter	VG	VG	6
Kicker	Mark Moseley	VG	Ex	13
Left Tackle	Mike Kenn	Ex	Ex	5
Left Guard	Derrick Nail	P	G	2
Center	Blair Bush	VG	VG	5
Right Guard	Bob Kuechenberg	VG	VG	13
Right Tackle	Bert Belognese	G	G	8

A couple of changes for the Bucs on offense since the pre-season projections.

Notably--LG will be filled by 2nd year guard Derrick Nail. Derrick is a previous 5th round pick. Very unpolished. Once he figures out his technique, he could be a steady starter on the offensive line. Hopefully with the help of 10-year vet and mentor Orpheus Cryer (last year's starter) he can develop into just that.

Also, injuries will make quite a few changes for opening day, but these are not permanent.

RB Joe Morris, the 1st round rookie, will be sidelined with a bad elbow. So Chuck Muncie, the veteran RB will return on opening day once again. Chuck is still amazed that he was benched in the first place, considering he rushed for almost 3,000 yards the last two seasons. If he does well, he may just make us forget about Joe Morris...maybe.

Second WR Mark Nichols is out until roughly mid-season. That would normally bring in the slot receiver Chris Collinsworth, but he's also out for opening day. So in comes rookie 3rd round pick Eugene Goodlow to start on opening day. He looks promising and gets a chance to just go out there and have some fun and prove himself.

The loss of WR Mark Nichols is particularly damaging because he was also the teams only decent kick and punt returner. With him out, that forces CB Walter Doyle into special teams duties. But since his post-draft boom, I'd rather him not play on special teams...but you make do with what you have.

[Dutch]

	DEFENSE
Named Starters for 1982
Defense	Name	Current	Future	Years
LDE	Emmitt Dodge	F	G	3
Nose Tackle	Cletidus Heilprin	F	G	4
RDE	Rex Robinson	F	F	2
Strong-Side LB	Hugh Green	F	G	2
Strong-Inside LB	Jim Laughlin	G	G	3
Weak-Inside LB	John Dzwonczyk	F	G	3
Weak-Side LB	Todd Kowall	G	G	10
Left Cornerback	Al Lawson	G	G	5
Rigth Cornerback	Walter Doyle - R	F	VG	R
Free Safety	Lyle Blackwood	G	G	10
Strong Safety	James Hunter	G	G	7
Punter	Larry Swider	G	VG	4

As advertised, the RDE will be manned by former 7th round pick Rex Robinson. Hopefully the mentorship of DE Rod Sloane will help him pick up the game fast. He isn't great, but he should fulfill the role admirably--(we hope!)

Free agent pick-up Cletidus Heilprin will take over the duties at NT this year. Yes, that's spelled correctly. The coaching staff will spend their spare time figuring out how to say Cletidus. Meanwhile, Cletidus will spend all his time figuring out how to keep his job as the starting nose tackle of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Good luck Cletidus.

That's all the major announcements on defense. The theme is to try and inject some youth into the squad and I think we've done just that.

Thanks for reading.

[Dutch]

Many RL things have interrupted my Bucs Dynasty. Starting with being seperated for a couple months from my home earlier this year (work related) to moving completely out of the country and now living in Germany. Things are always busy as I am back to concentrating on work and school and family life. So most of my free time is looking over the MP leagues I'm involved with.

I still like this dynasty however, and figured I'd better update it while I have a few days off.

[Dutch]

The 1982 season ended with a 9-7 record for the Buccaneers and gave us control of the NFC South Division Title for the second straight year. Although the division is considered pretty weak, the Oklahoma Outlaws (sfl_cat) are so far shaping up to be the primary contenders for the division year in and year out. 1982 proved to be a another such year of battling down to the wire, but we both limped in to the Week 17 matchup on losing streaks. The Outlaws beat us, but it wasn't enough. The loss dropped us to 9-7, and the victory for them only raised them up to 8-8.

In the Wild Card round, the Lynn Dickey and the Bucs faced off against Ottis Anderson and the Detroit Lions (TLK) and lost 26-21. Anderson ran all over us (in Tampa) and moved on to Chicago where they eventually fell to the Bears (Mr. Bigglesworth).

Futility might be the right word to describe the future of our division at this stage.

Lynn Dickey continued to impress by throwing deep, but his interceptions were keeping pace with his TD's and we never quite got on track.

The rookie RB Joe Morris showed up long enough to post a 1,000 yard season, but wasn't that key to the "Fun and Gun" offense we tried to establish.

[Dutch]

1983 brought about some key changes on offense and a strong show of support to our young defense.

Dissappointing (and injury prone) QB Neil Lomax (1.2 pick in 1981) was put on the block (by then Jacksonville, now LA Express) and the Bucs pulled the trigger to bring him into town. He wasn't producing very much differently than QB Lynn Dickey was for the Bucs, but he was young (2nd year) vs Dickey (10th year). The cost was a 1st rounder, 2nd rounder, and a 3rd rounder.

The arrival of QB Neil Lomax made QB Lynn Dickey expendable. So we put him on the block. The Buffalo Bills (matt) had just landed super-stud Eric Dickerson in the 1983 draft and traded away their big backer RB James Wilder to us in exchange for QB Dickey.

[Dutch]

The young defense that was thrashed in the 1982 Wild Card round by Ottis Anderson (154 yards rushing) and the Detroit Lions (26-21 loss) was still a work in progress.

In 1983, that work in progress was to become a major overhaul after the 1983 draft was all said and done. The changes were dramatic.

	DEFENSE					DEFENSE
Named Starters for 1982					Probable Starters for 1983
Defense	Name	Current	Future	Years	Defense	Name	Current	Future	Years
Left Defensive End	Emmitt Dodge	F	G	3	Left Defensive End	Rex Robinson	F	F	3
Nose Tackle	Cletidus Heilprin	F	G	4	Left Defensive Tackle	Gary Lewis	F	G	R
Right Defensive End	Rex Robinson	F	F	2	Right Defensive Tackle	George Achica	F	G	R
Strong-Side LB	Hugh Green	F	G	2	Right Defensive End	Toby Williams	F	G	R
Strong-Inside LB	Jim Laughlin	G	G	3	Strong-Side LB	Hugh Green	G	G	4
Weak-Inside LB	John Dzwonczyk	F	G	3	Middle Linebacker	Darryl Talley	P	G	R
Weak-Side LB	Todd Kowall	G	G	10	Weak-Side LB	John Dzwonczyk	G	G	4
Left Cornerback	Al Lawson	G	G	5	Left Cornerback	Al Lawson	G	G	6
Rigth Cornerback	Walter Doyle - R	F	VG	R	Rigth Cornerback	Walter Doyle	G	VG	2
Free Safety	Lyle Blackwood	G	G	10	Free Safety	James Hunter	G	G	8
Strong Safety	James Hunter	G	G	7	Strong Safety	Leonard Smith	F	VG	R
Punter	Larry Swider	G	VG	4	Punter	Larry Swider	G	VG	5

NOTE: Burnt Orange designates new starters.

As you can see, five new starters are injected into the defense. Not a single one from free agency (which is still very weak at this point in the game). Part of the reason to build from the draft was because the draft simply has better talent than the league was unloading via free agency.

The first round was the selection of SS Leanard Smith. He was a reach in terms that his combines were average, but his potential was so high (seventies) that I had to take the chance that he would work out. He has slipped some, but the fall has been graceful so far.

The second round brough big strong nose tackle George Achica. His skills were unpolished and still remain unpolished, but we're sticking with him.

The 3rd round brough both RDE Williams and LDT Lewis. Williams has been particularly exciting to watch develop but Lewis has been a nice surprise as well.

MLB Darryl Talley was a 4th round pickup who would fill the void opened with the departure of both veteran MLB Jim Laughlin and WLB Todd Kowall who were retired from starting duties due to injuries (suffered in the same game, no less!)

While Talley filled in admirably in 1983, his tenure as starter would be cut short by another rookie in 1984. But his play in the 3-4 would be instrumental when NT George Achica was injured. More no that later.

[Dutch]

The 1983 season ended as 1982 ended. Losing. As a matter of fact, the Bucs dropped 5 of their last 6 contests and handed the division back to the Oklahoma Outlaws, who faired not much better (winning the division title at 7-9).

The Bucs attempt to inject QB Neil Lomax into the role played by QB Lynn Dickey (as a long bomber) was not successful. Lomax had a poor season (76 QB Rating) with 2500 yards passing and the team ended the season 6-10.

RB James Wilder was a madman however, running for a career high 1,569 yards rushing. That effort (and Lomax' lack of effort) sparked the decision between 1983 and 1984 to change the offensive philosophy a bit from "Fun and Gun" to a much more conservative approach.

The defense, as you will see, will slowly come into it's own as it's older players are pushed out and the younger players start to define their roles.

The positive for the 1983 season? The five defensive rookies were outstanding.

RDE Toby Williams (3rd round pick) - 14 GS; 7 Sacks
LDT Gary Lewis (3rd round pick) - 15 GS; 6 Sacks
RDT George Achica (2nd round pick) - 15 GS; 3.5 Sacks

MLB Darryl Talley (4th round pick) - 3 GS; 14 tackles (Oustanding is a bit overstated for him)

SS Leonard Smith (1st round pick) - 15 GS; 71 tackles, 2 picks

[Dutch]

While the 1983 season was a failure, it laid the ground work for a philosophy change on offense and a buildup of experience on defense. The Defense isn't a superb unit as individuals, and while the unit lacks superstars, it also lacks the glaring holes of yester-year.

[Dutch]

Probable Starters for 1984
Offense	Name	CUR	FUT	EXP
Quarterback	Neil Lomax	VG	VG	4
Running Back	James Wilder	VG	VG	4
Flanker	Chris Collinsworth	G	G	4
Split End	Mark Nichols	F	G	4
Slot Receiver	Eugene Goodlow	F	G	3
Tight End	Jaimie Williams	G	G	2
Fullback	Rob Carpenter	VG	VG	8
Kicker	Mark Moseley	VG	Ex	15
Left Tackle	Mike Kenn	Ex	Ex	7
Left Guard	Bryan Millard	F	G	R
Center	Blair Bush	VG	VG	7
Right Guard	Bob Kuechenberg	G	G	15
Right Tackle	Kenny Schwantes	G	G	7

1984 saw only minor changes personnel-wise on offense. TE Billy Joe Dupree (11th season) was slowing down (41/41), and surprising 1983 7th round pick Jamie Williams was slowly coming in to his own (52/54) in just his second season. So the change was made.

Jamie Williams actually looks a lot like TE Ozzie Newsome looked after I bungled his move from TE to WR and back to TE. (Read: A great run and pass blocker, but not much else). But that's all I wanted from him.

Left Guard would be manned by yet another rookie, this time Bryan Millard (potential in the 50's). And veteran RT Kenny Schwantes is a master run blocker who replaces the aging tackle Bert Balognese in the starting rotation.

But the key would be QB Lomax (in a new role) and RB Wilder (in an expanded role) along with the fast rising star wideout Chris Collinsworth (1600 yards and 14 TD's in 1983).

[Dutch]

	DEFENSE
Probable Starters for 1984
Defense	Name	Current	Future	Years
Left Defensive End	Emmitt Dodge	F	G	5
Left Defensive Tackle	Gary Lewis	G	G	2
Right Defensive Tackle	George Achica	F	G	2
Right Defensive End	Toby Williams	G	G	2
Strong-Side LB	Hugh Green	G	G	4
Middle Linebacker	Mike Johnson	F	G	R
Weak-Side LB	John Dzwonczyk	G	G	5
Left Cornerback	Shaun Gayle	F	G	R
Rigth Cornerback	Walter Doyle	VG	VG	3
Free Safety	Cyrus Holden	G	G	5
Strong Safety	Leonard Smith	G	VG	2
Punter	Larry Swider	G	VG	7

On defense, the key was youth. The oldest starters were going to be the 5th year guys. The Bucs were slowly turning into a decent version of Menudo, it seems.

Two of the new starters injected into the defense had been with the Bucs and knew the system well. LDE Emmitt Dodge, the defensive front leader was taking over for 7th round pick Rex Robinson who failed to develop. And FS Cyrus Holden, now a mentor, is superbly intelligent and will soon be the leader of the Bucs secondary takes the starting role from 9th year guy James Hunter (who really only started two games last year in the secondary shakeups).

But the two new guys of note are 1st round rookie (1.8) LCB Shaun Gayle and 2nd round MLB Mike Johnson.

If these guys pan out, the defense, that started off as an after-thought during the 1980 dispersal live draft, would be nearly complete as a formidable defensive unit...and with not a single "super star" in their midst. Defenitely the most exciting aspect of this Tampa Bay Buccaneers team so far for me.

[MIJB#19]

It's alive. Alive!

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

It's alive. Alive!

Muhuwahahaha!

[Dutch]

1983 GEFL REVIEW

While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers wallowed in mediocrity (or worse), the GOLDEN ERA FOOTBALL LEAGUE marched on. The major players of 1983 were mostly familiar faces of GEFL playoffs; Houston, Birmingham, and Washington to be clear. The usual gaggle of GEFL gansters were supplemented by others of course, but in the end, the storyline remained these dominant clubs...plus a cinderella story of sorts.

Let's look around the league quickly for the 1983 recap.

The NFC Central was loaded with three 11-5 teams; the Bears, Lions, and Vikings. The NFC West brought Atlanta (13-3) to the scrum while the young San Francisco 49'ers (10-6) were left at home despite a relatively successful season.

The Bucs very own NFC South was honored to send it's weakling brother, the 7-9 Oklahoma Outlaws to the playoffs as it's representative. And in stark contrast, the NFC east sent juggernaught Washington, armed to the teeth with Big Bert ca-Jones and a 14-2 record.

Over in the AFC, the suspects included the traditional tough teams such as the Houston Oilers and Birmingham Stallions.

In the AFC North, the champs were victorious again. The Houston Oilers (11-5) breezed through their division to finish 3 games in front of Pittsburgh. Maybe not as dominant as 1982, but with the stingiest defense in the league, to be sure.

The AFC South produced four teams with winning records, including one of the most impressive offensive air attacks in the business. The Birmingham Stallions (13-3) were not ready to be pushed around by anyone, this their fourth season in a row of post-season play. But of all the teams they did push around, they couldn't push out any of their own division rivals. Along for the ride in 1983, were the Memphis Showboats (11-5) and the Los Angeles Express (9-7). The loser in the division was the Colts of Baltimore (9-7). They would have to follow the games at home on color televisions.

The rest of the AFC was more of an afterthought. With the NFC East bringing along a young Miami Dolphins (9-7) squad and the NFC West limping in with the Oakland Raiders, winners of seven games.

In the AFC Playoffs, there were no surprises. The two pre-playoff favorites Houston and Birmingham battled for the championship. Eventually, the dominant defense of the Oilers prevailed by suppressing the Stallions high-octane assault. The final score; Houston 20, Birmingham 3. A repeat opportunity for the Oilers.

In the NFC Playoffs, there were a few big suprises. The Division round was a nightmare for GEFL promoters as both powerhouses Washington and Atlanta fell in their home stadiums. The Falcons lost a heartbreakers to the Bears, 30-28. And the Redskins were stunned and pushed around all day by the the Lions (28-14).

The Detroit Lions had done what no team had done before, they won three games on the road to get to the GEFL Bowl.

But despite the cinderella story, not all the momentum in the world could prepare the Lions for the defense they were about to face. A defense that shut down the mighty Birmingham attack and allowed the fewest points in GEFL. The Lions were not prepared, either, for the ground pounding running back, Wendell Tyler. And when the dust cleared, the Lions luck had run out. The Houston Oilers became repeat champs; besting the Lions 21-10 in dominating fashion.

Congrats once again to the Houston Oilers and the Detroit Lions for successful seasons.

[Dutch]

Up next: 1984
Time for a new hard drive? Maybe a relaxing night at Cheers with friends listening to live music? Here are some newspaper clippings from 1984.

[RedKingGold]

Originally Posted by Dutch

Dissappointing (and injury prone) QB Neil Lomax (1.2 pick in 1981) was put on the block (by then Jacksonville, now LA Express) and the Bucs pulled the trigger to bring him into town. The cost was a 1st rounder, 2nd rounder, and a 3rd rounder.

Actually, the cost was a 1st rounders and two high 2nd rounders. The Bulls/Express then traded those three picks to Oakland for DE Joe Klecko and SS Gary Fencik. Klecko put up All-Pro numbers before being traded to get us ammunition to trade up and nab Steve Young. Fencik played very well before an injury at midseason in 1983. He fully recovered in 1984 and has played very well for us this year leading the team in tackles through the midpoint of the season.

[Dutch]

Actually, the cost was a 1st rounders and two high 2nd rounders.

Hmmm, the 1-2-3 is all I was willing to give up for him. I think I've been swindled.

[Dutch]

Dr. Z's 1984 Mid-Season Review By Dr. Z

After a long, long break; we’re glad that you are all back for the second half of the 1984 season in the glorious GEFL! We’re sorry we’ve been unable (due to time constraints) to keep you abreast of all the fun that’s been going on so far. We hope to make it up to you in the weeks ahead. Meanwhile, in this issue, we review the first half of the GEFL season division by division. We also have named Dr. Z’s Mid-Season Awards and All-Pro team. Finally, we have made our predictions of who will make the playoffs and who will win GEFL Bowl V. So sit down, grab a “new” Coke and enjoy!

The always great read from Dr. Z is back with his mid-season review. Some kind words for the Bucs so far. Especially Lomax, who's really turned it around this season.

Definately worth the read.

http://www.fof-gefl.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?t=1711

Below are the notable Bucs spots - I encourage you to read his entire article if you want a look into the world of GEFL right now.

NFC SOUTH
-Could the best team in the conference come from the league’s worst division? Tampa Bay has played a lot like a certain team from Texas not from Dallas. The Buccaneers are solid in every facet of the game, and as long as they remain healthy, could challenge for the conference title. Oklahoma has finally decided on their quarterback of the future after trading with Cincinnati for Doug Williams. Williams has been a steady influence on the team and is one game away from matching their win total from their previous division winning season. St. Louis and Seattle have both made strides and appear to be rising out of the cellar to be giving a serious fight to Tampa Bay and Oklahoma. However, both teams still have a little bit of a ways to go to make a serious run into the playoffs.

1984 Mid-Season All-Pro Team

Quarterback:Neil Lomax (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
-It was a very tough decision between Lomax, Washington QB Bert Jones and Memphis QB Tommy Kramer. In the end, we went with Lomax as both Jones and Kramer man talent-laden teams which went to the post-season last year, while Tampa Bay has less talent on both sides of the ball. Second in the league in touchdown passes and quarterback rating, Lomax has become the field general that he was portended to be as the second overall selection in the 1981 draft.

[Dutch]

BUCS TURN UP THE HEAT IN THE NFC
Tampa (FL) - The Buccaneers defeated the Chicago Bears (6-3) in 16-13 over-time slugfest at home to propel the Bucs to an NFC best 8-1 record. QB Neil Lomax past the 300 yard passing mark for just the second time this season and RB James Wilder continued his successful year with a 25 carry 130 yard performance.

The Bears were considered (internally at least) as the first of three tough games on the Bucs schedule. They were 6-2 going into the matchup and have a commanding lead in the NFC North. With this victory, the Bucs had two more big challenges upcoming.

Next on the schedule is the division matchup with the 6-3 Oklahoma Outlaws. A win here would be instrumental in wrapping up the division. A loss will put the squads just a game apart. Huge implications.

Following that game will the last of the three game test against the 7-2 (currently) San Diego Chargers. Convincing wins by the New York Giants (27-13 over the Rams) and the Denver Broncos (17-3 over the Jets) do give the Bucs the opportunity to extend the list of challenging games upcoming.

Games down the stretch for the Bucs

@ Oklahoma (6-3)
@ San Diego (7-2)
NEW YORK GIANTS (5-4)
DENVER BRONCOS (5-4)
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (4-6)
@ Oakland (3-6)
@ St. Louis (3-7)

After 9 games the Bucs have never looked so good. Traditionaly, the Bucs have started off hot and cooled, but even so, this season has been noticably more hot than usual.

Bucs Record (historically) after 9 games
1980 - 5-4
1981 - 6-3
1982 - 6-3
1983 - 4-5
1984 - 8-1

Bucs Record (historically) down the stretch (last 7 games)
1980 - 4-3
1981 - 4-3
1982 - 3-4
1983 - 2-5
1984 - ???

Obviously, the Bucs will have to reverse their trend to slump in the late goings, but at this point, with a two game lead over Oklahoma, going at least 3-4 will force the rival Outlaws to go 5-2 down the stretch to even have a shot at the division title.

The Bucs and the Outlaws play Monday.

[Dutch]

WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT: OKLAHOMA OUTLAWS - Owner: sfl_cat

Overview:
Ahhhh, the good old Oklahoma Outlaws. Week #11 will bring the Bucs to the most hostile stadium we play in, that of our division rival Outlaws. The Oklahoma Outlaws have developed into the Bucs natural rival and we have battled it out for the division title every year so far. The score? A 2-2 tie. The Outlaws won the division in 1980 and last year (1983); we've won it in '81 and '82. And in all four seasons, the runner-up was Tampa Bay or Oklahoma.

It's really not too surprising then that when these two teams get together, it's not for fun. It's a family re-union (of sorts) of NFC Southerners, but Oklahoma is more like in-laws than Outlaws, we'll go over to their place because we have to, and we'll say, "Hi", but after that, we're fightin'.

And the last fight took place in Tampa. Well, I'm sure Oklahoma would be glad to attest that it was more of a whuppin. Tampa Bay 34, Oklahoma 9.

Key Player:
Doug Williams.

The Oklahoma offense is a ball-control styled offense that depends on the quarterback not getting too fancy. 7th year QB Doug Williams (Good/Good) fits that bill nicely and is showing the kind of consistancy that the Outlaws need in order to win. Williams has a keen understanding for a huge ammount of offensive sets that really helps keep defenses on their heels. And having only thrown two interceptions so far this year, he's definately a tough quarterback to fluster. Although he does limit mistakes, he isn't one that would normally direct a lot of punishment against defenses. A solid quarterback with a head towards being the field general, but nothing flashy. He's a ball-control quarterback first and foremost.

Offense:
One of the reasons the Outlaws are pretty successful when they do have the rock is a big tough offensive line. 5th year right-tackle Anthony Munoz (Excellent/Excellent) is pound for pound one of the most dominating players in the GEFL today and probably the best offensive lineman in the game.

Standing next to Munoz on the right side of the mormation is the RG Roy Foster (Very Good/Very Good) and superb center Mike Webster (Very Good/Very Good). This makes for a devastating push to the right side that can easily take over a ball-game. The Outlaws love to punish their opponents with a strong ground attack. But what it really does is opens up the unprotected left-side during games for counters.

I think the Outlaws aren't as good at exploiting this as they could be, but that's their strength, and that's what I will protect against at all costs. The big problem for the Outlaws is that their ground game is led by 2nd year running back James Jones (Good/Good). He's not the explosive back that is required for this offense and he has major issues with FB Woody Bennett (Very Good/Very Good). They just aren't on the same page and this lack of chemistry and Jones' lack of ability will ultimately lead to the demise of the Outlaws season.

Defense:
A pair of 7th year run-stuffing defensive ends are highlights of this average defensive unit. LDE Ross Browner (Very Good/Very Good) and RDE Al Baker (Good/Good) can shut down a running game by themselves if they could. However, football requires eleven guys to do that so they can't. And it shows. With a lack of any other real talent on the defensive line, the Outlaws are almost forced to run a 3-4, and opponents are almost forced to run on them.

Teir linebackers, with the exception of SLB Steve Hickl (Good/Good) is nothing to write home about and perpetuates the run defense problems. Maybe they should forece themselves to run a 3-3?

But having additional members in the secondary won't do any good, because with the exception of the always dangerous 10th year star FS Doug Plank, this unit is filled with bit players as well.

Outlaws Outlook:
Although the Outlaws lack very good starting talent in many areas, the problem is pandemic throughout GEFL and is no excuse for failure. They have managed a 6-3 record, so they definately aren't taking their shortcomings lying down. But with an offensive philosophy that highlights the rushing attack, they are ranked 17th. And their passing attack is likewise ranked 17th.

In a ball control offense, they really need their defense to step up and that simply isn't happening. The run defense is ranked 31st and the pass defense ranked 21st. That's really let them down this season and will continue to haunt them until they can get some run defense support and a true ball control running back.

We look forward to meeting our 'in-laws' for another family reunion fist fight, that's true, but we know they are scrappy and won't lie down, despite doing so the first go around (did I mention that score? Tampa Bay 34, Oklahoma NINE).

We look forward to the meeting but we except it only as a tough challenge that we must overcome through 60 minutes of good play. We think we're up for the challenge.

Take it easy!

[Dutch]

THE WEEK THAT WAS
Tampa (FL) - The Bucs sweep the Outlaws 2-0 this season after surviving 20-17 in a closer game than anticipated. It was a game where great defensive play ruled the day and won the game as it turns out for Tampa. Oklahoma, trailing by 3, fumbled the ball away at the Bucs 16 to seal their fate. The Bucs got lucky this time.

The following week (Week #12) pitted the now NFC leading 9-1 Bucs against the NFC West leader, San Diego (7-3). Although San Diego was without starting quarterback Tony Eason and despite going down early 14-0 to the Buccaneers; the Chargers dominated the final two and a half quarters of action and walked away with a 24-20 victory.

Oklahoma won their match against the Chiefs 30-22 pulling them back within 2 games (actually, it's 3 games since Tampa owns the tie-breaker).

Tampa Bay should learn from the San Diego game that no lead is insurmountable, and will need to continue to win games to keep the Outlaws at bay.

INJURY UPDATES: Starting RG Bob Kuchenburg (G/G) is out for two weeks following an injury in the Oklahoma game. His replacement is very green RG Dean Steinkuhler (P/G). Also of note, starting LDT Gary Lewis (G/G) looks to be done for the season with a injured elbow. He might be able to make it back in an emergency late in the season. He's expected to miss 4-6 weeks of action.

NFC SOUTH
standings
9-2 Tampa Bay
7-4 Oklahoma
4-7 St. Louis
4-7 Seattle

[fantastic flying froggies]

Please don't destroy my Giants next week.

With my d-line in shambles, this game is not going to be pretty...

[SFL Cat]

Grrrrrrrrr!

!@#$%&*%#@ Bucs!

Damn good game. Just pissed we fumbled it away to you. Is stickum still legal in 84?

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by fantastic flying froggies

Please don't destroy my Giants next week.

With my d-line in shambles, this game is not going to be pretty...

Well, we seem to be slowing down. The last two weeks have really brought us back down to Earth. Nothing would make me feel better than a good old fashion butt whuppin' of the Giants.

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by SFL Cat

Grrrrrrrrr!

!@#$%&*%#@ Bucs!

Damn good game. Just pissed we fumbled it away to you. Is stickum still legal in 84?

I missed this before, glad to see you are reading along.

The Bucs/Outlaws are turning into a fine rivalry, even when neither one of us can win 8 games in a season.

[Dutch]

WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT: NEW YORK GIANTS (6-5) - Owner: Fantastic Flying Froggies

Overview:
The New York Football Giants find themselves on the outside looking in for the 1984 playoff hunt. A game behind the 7-4 Oklahoma Outlaws and the 7-4 Philadelphia Eagles. And to add to the challenge, the always dangerous Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49'ers are both 6-5 as well and hold all head to head tie-breakers with the Giants.

The Giants do have some cupcakes on their upcoming schedule with the Bengals (3-7-1), Browns (0-11), and Cowboys (4-7) but four of their last five games will have the Giants on the road. No easy task, no matter who you are facing.

And speaking of travelling, the first road game the Giants will play in this final stretch is against our very own 9-2 Buccaneers. This is the Bucs first of three home games and they really hope they can open up the offense a little to excite the home crowd.

The Giants, if they are really even thinking of the playoffs, will very definately be able to say they earned it if they find themselves on the post season schedule. I don't see any scenario's where at the end of the regular season we'll be saying, "Boy, those Giants sure did back in...", oh no, on the contrary...the mountain will be a tough climb. Will they do it? I don't know. But I do know that any success will definately come from riding any future good tidings of 9th year roll-out quarterback, Jim Zorn (VG/VG).

Key Player:
Jim Zorn (VG/VG).

Looking over Jim Zorn, we clearly see he's the 7th on the passing list in the NFL this season. However, some of Jim Zorn's biggest statistical days have come during losses so that isn't where Jim Zorn really shines. Like Doug Williams a couple of weeks ago, this guy simply doesn't make mistakes. It's hard to capitalize on teams when they play smart and the 9th year vet is an unheralded gem for the New York Giants.

Offense:
Another fanstastic discovery about QB Jim Zorn is that he is 7th in passing in the NFL with a poor class of receivers. Journeyman wide-out Corey Cowan (G/G) is the best of the bunch. But he's a true blue-collar guy who puts up the big numbers, but isn't very impressive to the scouting department. But 600 yards of offense are to his credit after 11 games. Not too bad. Rookie flanker Gerald McNeil (F/G) is probably one of the best punt and kick return men in the business. But due to the team's lack of receivers, the Giants generally keep him off of special teams so he can focus on receiving. He's been steady, but not exciting--and a switch back to--or added responsability of--returning might be the ticket to his success.

The true super-star on offense according to the scouts is tight end Jimmie Giles (VG/VG). He's the best tight end in the business and is a favorite target of Jim Zorn's. His near 600 yards of offense challenges the receiving corp for the team lead.

The running team is 2nd year RB Johnny Hector's (G/G) responsability. He's a solid all-around backer who can do it all, pound away inside, get to the outside, make his own way, catch passes, block, whatever is needed. After a superb 1,200 yard rookie effort, this year started off in the typical sophomore slump concern many 2nd year players suffer from. But the last three games have been a wake up call for Hector and opposing defenses. 285 yards rushing and a couple of TD's. Don't fall asleep on the run stopping...

Defense:
I am really impressed with the ammount of talent the Giants have emassed on defense. There really aren't any weak areas in their 3-4 defense. The line is solid (despite some injuries), they have ample linebackers, and even a solid secondary with some pretty good corners.

All-league OLB Larry Grodon is the ring-leader. He's already got 70 tackles and 6 sacks this season. He's a monster on the corner and QB's and lineman both need to keep an eye on where Grodon is at all-times. Failing to account for him could lead to disaster.

But despite the solid talent on defense, the Giants lack something. Most teams tee-off against their pass defense and have a lot of success, and when they do run, they have success there as well. So that is sort of a mystery. I do think that while this corp group of players are great defenders, they don't create a lot of turnovers, and that may be something, I'm just not sure anybody can put a finger on why that is.

Giants Outlook:
The Giants season is starting to look bleak despite the 6-5 record, they seem a team destined to be one of the best teams left out of the playoffs. That's a hard pill to swallow when they are so close right now. If there is any consolation, this team is very young. If they can keep this corp together and add a key player or two next year, look out. NFC EAST BEWARE.

As for Monday's game? The Giants are playing a bit better (they beat the Houston Oilers afterall) and the Bucs are playing or their heels a bit, but the home field advantage should be a huge lift for the Bucs and a drain on the Giants. Tampa Bay 24, New York 17

Thanks for reading, take it easy.

[fantastic flying froggies]

A great review, Dutch.

Like you, this team baffles me at times...maybe it's my game-planning?

If I do miss the playoffs, the pill will indeed be hard to swallow, especially since it will be the 4th consecutive season, despite us never having a losing season yet. The worse one was in 1982 when we finished 11-5 but were still left outside looking in...

Having said that, our prospects of making the playoffs are pretty bleak (again).

[fantastic flying froggies]

Well, it's official, the Bucs handed my Giants a big can of whup-ass...

[Dutch]

You were just one more big play away from victory. That's the way it works out sometimes.

[Dutch]

THE WEEK THAT WAS: The C.J. Bernard Story
Tampa (FL) - The Bucs faced some tough challenges this week in the New York Giants (fighting for the playoff lives) and the Denver Broncos (fighting for their division title) and bumped them both off in nail-biting fashion.

In Tampa, the Bucs blistered the Giants early by going up 17-0 in the second quarter. But the Giants were not eager to go home without putting up a fight. They battled back to 20-10 and mid-way through the 3rd quarter...we'll let New York Giants color commentator, Gifford Nielson recount the play that put the Giants back into play.

"...so after a long Giants drive for a touchdown, the defense comes up huge here in the third quarter to force the Buccaneers to a three and out...Larry Swider is in to punt. LeRoy Irvin is standing at about the 20 yard line...the punt is off...it's pretty solid, Irvin is driven back to the 15...he makes the...no wait, he muff's the punt! Quickly gobbles it up...he misses a tackler, he's crossing back across field...picks up a blocker....and he's through the gap! 35!...40!...midfield!....nobody is catching him today! Touchdown, Giants! Wow, what a play. It looked for a moment like disaster had struck and just seconds later we have ourselvse a ballgame! What a masterful run-back by LeRoy Irvin!"

That brought the score to 20-17. But karma was not on the Giants side today and the Giants ran out of luck...finally succumbing 23-17.

STORY OF THE WEEK: CJ Bernard, Quarterback, Rookie, Denver Broncos

Up next in Week #14, the Denver Broncos were in town, and with them an old Buccaneer quarterback throw-away leading the way. C.J. Bernard, the rookie 6th round pick by the Bucs wasn't considered good enough to make the Tampa squad. But with the devastating injury to Broncos signal-caller Ken O'Brien, the Broncos "made" room for him.

"I was pretty devastated when the Bucs cut me. But I didn't quit. I tried to maintain my level of fitness, even after I returned home to Germantown, Tennessee. My motivation was definately Vols games. After watching a game, I would find myself at the gym. I had to get back into football, quick. And when the Broncos called, I was ready to prove I deserved to play in the GEFL."

And before too long, C.J. Bernard got his chance. In a week #10 game against the New York Jets, on the road, no less, Bernard got his shot. The week before, Adam Norton, the Broncos 3rd(!) string QB was pretty ineffective. And the top two Broncos quarterbacks (O'Brien and Campbell) were both already sidelined with injuries.

Says Denver head coach Peter Moss, "In the three weeks previous to the Jets game, we went 1-2 and lost our two top quarterbacks to injury. We needed a spark, we needed something to keep it together. We're a good football team and we were about to fall apart out there and let down our fans. These guys busted their asses all year and there was no way I could not at least try to make something happen at this point."

Coach Moss said he wasn't sure, but he figured it a gut feeling to go with Bernard over Norton in that Jets game.

"The guys in practice just seemed to respond better to Bernard. So that's why we made the switch."

And the switch worked. Bernard went 21 of 29 for 235 yards and a pair of touchdowns and won the game 17-3. As a matter of fact, he went on to lead the Broncos to three more victories. His career record heading into Tampa Bay was 4-0. Undefeated! The castaway Buccaneer quarterback was the hot hand.

Meanwhile, as rookie sensation CJ Bernard and the Denver Broncos came strutting in to town...embattled Bucs quarterback Neil Lomax remained off the Tampa Tribune's headlines despite a quietly superb year. The Bucs fan base has always been rather cool towards Lomax, who is known to be injury prone and over-rated. And the national media loves an underdog, and they got one in QB Bernard. But Lomax was determined to put an end to this Cinderella story.

And while neither Bernard nor Lomax played particularly well, it came down to Neil Lomax to decide who would take the day.

The Broncos defense had neutralized the Bucs offense for 3 and a half quarters. Midway through the final quater, the Broncos thought they had broken the game open with a Chris Fike 3-yard scamper after a long drive to take the lead 17-10.

But suddenly, out of nowhere, the Bucs came to life. On the ensuing Tampa possession, Lomax directed an 8-play drive that culmunated in a FG. Dropping the deficit to 17-13, with five minutes to play.

The following Broncos possession ended when CJ Bernard went for broke with a long ball that was picked off by safety Leonard Smith at the 8-yard line.

And Lomax went to work.

First Lomax hit WR Chris Collinsworth 30 yards downfield at the two-minute warning. Then he hit him again, 51 yards downfield to set up the winning score...an 8-yard strike to RB James Wilder.

It was up to CJ Bernard to engineer his own comeback, but failed, going 0-4 and turning the ball over on downs at their own 9-yard line. And two plays later, Lomax sealed the deal with a 6-yard TD pass to TE Jamie Williams. It was a great run for CJ Bernard, an we don't think he's through just yet in this league...but we are not sure if he will see another start this year for the Broncos. Time will tell.

PLAYOFF NOTE: With the victory over the Broncos, the Buccaneers have clinched the NFC South for the third time! Extending their division champ record to 3-2 over Oklahoma.

INJURY UPDATES: 15th year RG Bob Kuechenberg (G/G) remained inactive and failed to show any progress with his minor foot injury. He will remain inactive as a precaution, until he is fully healed. 12th year TE Billy Joe DuPree (G/G) tweaked his knee but should be available next week against the Seattle Seahawks. Defenders LDT Gary Lewis (G/G) and 1984 1st round rookie LCB Shaun Gayle (F/G) remain OUT for 5 and 4 weeks respectively.

NFC SOUTH
standings
11-2 Tampa Bayz
8-5 Oklahoma
6-7 St. Louis
5-8 Seattle
x=clinched playoff spot z=clinched division

[Dutch]

WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT: SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (5-8) - Owner: daedalus

Overview: The Seattle Seahawks have been down on their luck ever since the GEFL began back in 1980. They had never won more than 5 games in a season, never finished outside of the basement, but always had top draft picks to show for it.

Over the last four seasons of drafting, they have come away with some outstanding additions to help try and right the ship.

1981 1.4 - LB Mike Singletary (VG/VG)
1982 1.1 - RB Marcus Allen (VG/VG)
1983 1.6 - CB Gill Bryd (VG/VG)
1984 1.6 - WR Louis Lipps (G/VG)

As it slowly starts to come to gether, you can sort of sense that 1984 is the year we better take notice. So far they have matched their seasons best of 5 wins and the running game under RB Marcus Allen (VG/VG) is starting to flourish.

Just last week, as it turns out, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Diego Chargers 28-7. And for those keeping score, that's the biggest Seattle victory since a 31-9 drubbing on division rival St. Louis way back in 1980. So things are slowly coming together for Seattle, and owner daedalus, should be excited about the future of his team.

Of course, right now, I'd like to ensure that last weeks 28-7 victory was a fluke, and our mission is to make sure we contain Allen and pressure 5th year QB Marc Wilson (G/G) enough so as we take care of our own business.

Key Player: Without question, Marcus Allen is the key to this team right now. After 13 games, he stands at 1,120 yards and 7 TD's. That's well within sight of a career best for him which he should eclipse in the next couple of games.

Offense: If QB Marc Wilson (G/G) hadn't gotten himself hurt, who knows where the Seattle Seahawks would be right now. Wilson is having a fine year and boasts a 93.5 QB rating. With the addition of rookie WR Louis Lipps, the offense isn't to be taken lightly as San Diego found out last week.

Defense: The defense still needs some work, but not much. There are major holes in the linebacking corp, despite the presense of LB Mike Singletary (VG/VG). But overall, there is a scattering of top talent on defense and with players like Singletary, CB Gil Bryd (VG/VG), DE Lee Roy Selmon (VG/VG), and DE Jumpy Geathers (G/VG); quite simply, the defense is right on the edge of being pretty damned good.

Seahawks Outlook: As stated, this isn't the year the for Seahawks. But as these solid draft picks continue to mature, the sky is the limit. We hope they falter along the way obviously, but if they don't, they will become a serious contendter to the NFC South sooner rather than later.

Prediction: Well now, after all those accolades, I wanted to make sure and highlight that the 'Hawks aren't quite there yet. And since the Bucs cannot let up until the battle for homefield advantage is won or lost, I don't think the time is yet ripe to start calling for Seattle victories. I would be unhappy if Seattle won this game, but I honestly can't be too shocked after what I've seen. So for now, I still confidently predict a Bucs win.
Tampa Bay 21, Seattle 17

Thanks for reading, take it easy.

[Dutch]

THE WEEK THAT WAS: Historical Firsts!
Tampa (FL) - This week, the Bucs knocked off division foe Seattle 21-6 and the Oakland Raiders (owner: disturbed) 21-13 to drive their record to an NFC best 13-2. With just one game left in the regular season, Tampa has wrapped up the division title and a bye week. The last bit of good news they could possibly receive during the regular season is home field throughout. More on that later.

First off, the Seattle Seahawks proved tough competators for the first half of play. Nobody could score, or so it seemed. With the 2nd quarter clock dwindling under 1:00 to play, the Seattle Seahawks were driven deep into their own territory by a Larry Swider punt (he pinned him at the 9 yard line). And it appeared the Seahawks strategy was to run out the clock and go into half-time content no a scoreless half-time tie.

But RB Marcus Allen wasn't interested in that, and on the first play following the punt scooted outside and burned the Bucs defense for an 85 yard scamper. He was finally hauled down by LB Hugh Green at the Bucs 6 yard line.

That touchdown saving tackle by Hugh Green loomed large as the Seahawks were forced to make a decision to either go for it with 8 seconds left in the half or play it safe and kick the field goal.

The Seahawks chose to play it safe and kick the field goal. That may have sent the wrong message to the team and the second half turned into a disaster for the them. The Bucs pounced on them with three second half QB Neil Lomax touchdown passes. Final score: Tampa Bay 21, Seattle 6.

The following week, the Bucs went on the road to the Oakland Raiders (3-11). The outcome was never really in doubt as the Bucs jumped out to an early 14-0 lead and were never challenge after that. A garbage TD by the Raiders made the score look good, but that was about it. Final Score: Tampa Bay 21, Oakland 13.

STORY OF THE WEEK: The story of the week is actually a week #16 matchup between the Houston Oilers (12-2) and the Washington Redskins (12-2). This matchup was billeted as a clash of titans and they lived up to their billing. Houston (MIJB#19) had the luxury to leave many of his starters on the bench while the Redskins (Subby) were left to fight for homefield advantage with the Bucs. The story ended with what I thought was a Houston Oiler upset of the Redskins. That was alright in my book as it gives opportunity if we were to lose to the Cardinals in the final week.

But what may be of even more importance is the loss of Redskin RB Hubert Simpson for the year. This year, the Redskins went in a slightly different direction. As Bert Jones and the receiving corp gave way to RB Hubert Simpson and the ground game. That's not to say the passing game dissapeared, it just became more refined. Bert Jones raised his QB rating (so far) nearly 14 points. From an outstanding 93.9 QB rating in 1983 to an unbelievable 106.9 QB rating this year.

Now, without RB Sampson (2000+ rushing yards this year) we will see more of 'the bert'. So definately the story of the week.

PLAYOFF NOTE: If the Bucs win OR the Redskins lose, we get homefield. If the Bucs lose, the Redskins must also lose. As it stands, if we both end up with 13-3 records, the Redskins will take the homefield away based on a common game with the San Francisco 49'ers, whom we lost to and the Redskins demolished.

Also, the Oklahoma Outlaws are still alive at 9-6. They are tied with 5 others at 9-6. One will become a division champ (San Francisco and Atlanta), and the other four are fighting for the two wild car spots. The Outlaws, Philadelphia, NY Giants, and the loser between San Francisco and Atlanta). Should make for an exciting finish.

INJURY UPDATES: 15th year RG Bob Kuechenberg (G/G) has fully healed but will remain out of the starting lineup until the playoffs begin. We feel this is possible due to the solid play of LG's Derrick Nail (F/G) and rookie Bryon Millard (F/G). He should see limited action off the bench against the Cardinals in week #17. SE2 Tony Griffin (F/G) hyperextended his ankle and missed last weeks game. His status is Doubtful for St. Louis. LDT Gary Lewis (G/G) who hasn't seen action since the week #12 matchup against San Diego and 1st round rookie selection LCB Shaun Gayle (F/G) who has missed every game since the week #13 matchup against the New York Giants are both listed as probable. Their starting roles are unknown right now.

NFC SOUTH
standings
13-2 Tampa Bayz
9-6 Oklahoma
7-8 St. Louis
6-9 Seattle
x=clinched playoff spot z=clinched division

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Dutch

STORY OF THE WEEK: The story of the week is actually a week #16 matchup between the Houston Oilers (12-2) and the Washington Redskins (12-2). This matchup was billeted as a clash of titans and they lived up to their billing. Houston (MIJB#19) had the luxury to leave many of his starters on the bench while the Redskins (Subby) were left to fight for homefield advantage with the Bucs. The story ended with what I thought was a Houston Oiler upset of the Redskins. That was alright in my book as it gives opportunity if we were to lose to the Cardinals in the final week.

It was all my pleasure to give the Buccaneers a little boost in their race for home field advantage.


Edit: And I forgot to say, this things starts looking better and better. I'll probably fail to check in every day for the updates, but won't forget to tune in once every week or so!

[Dutch]

WEEKEND SPOTLIGHT: St. Louis Cardinals (7-8) - Owner: sackattack

Overview: The St. Louis Cardinals are an interesting division foe for Tampa Bay. In our first seven matchups, the margin of victory has been by 31, 14, 11, 11, 11, 6, 4, 3, and 1 point(s). In games where the margine was great than a touchdown (11 points to be specific), Tampa Bay was the winner, in the three games that concluded by less than a touchdown, St. Louis walked away victorious. As sackattack likes to point out, despite having a better record each year, I have never swept the Cardinals and they have never swept us. To date, the Bucs hold the series lead 4-3. In a year of firsts, we hope to achieve our first sweep of the Cardinals. We'll see how it works out.

Like so many of my recent opponents, I'm catching the Cardinals while they are 'en fuego'. A 4-1 record down the stretch with their only blemish being a 13-12 loss to the (now) 10-5 Denver Broncos. Not bad.

But what's driving this recent surge from the St. Louis Cardinals? I'm not entirely sure to be honest. QB Todd Blackledge (G/G) is good but is performing like a typical journeyman quarterback would perform (10 TD's and 11 INT's). There is no real (or perceived) offensive threat.

The defense has been playing well, but with star CB Lestery Hanes (VG/VG) inconveniently out for the finale, they might find themselves in dire straights if they think they are going to defeat the Bucs by virtue of some right to not be swept. They definately have their work cut out for them.

Key Player: The key this year to the Cardinals has been solid defensive play. And leading the charge on defense this year, as he has every year of GEFL, is standout middle linebacker, A.J. Duhe. He's on pace to break 120 solo tackles for the 5th straight year! That's a workhorse linebacker if I ever saw one. He's obviously one of those guys you can't gameplan around, so you just try and hope your gameplan doesn't run straight into him.

Offense: QB Todd Blackledge (G/G) has a couple of outstanding targets when he drops back to pass. 8th year flanker Morgan Stanley (VG/VG) and 10th year TE Russ Francis (VG/VG) are both outstanding. But with a decimated corp of offensive tackles, it might be a long day trying to give Blackledge the time he needs to find his targets.

The running game is has been backfield leader RB Randy McMillen (G/G) almost all year, but it's really anybody's guess as to what the Cardinals want to do here. RB's Francis Lloyd (F/F), Stacey Manor (G/G) and FB Seth Holmes (F/G) have all had time with the rock this year and last week, a healthy McMillen didn't start in favor of 5th year guy RB Stacey Manor.

Defense: The defense has MLB A.J. Duhe (VG/VG) in the middle and he does an outstanding job. The other key asset to this team is their corners LCB Lester Hayes (VG/VG) and 2nd year newcomer RCB Dave Duerson (G/VG). For our match to close out the 1984 regular season, LCB Lester Hayes will be out (a one week injury) that the Bucs should be able to capitalize on.

Cardinals Outlook: Where the Cardinals lack in roster skill and depth, they more than make up for it in perseverance. It is my opinion that the Cardinals lose in spite of good gameplanning. They just don't have the talent to make it all click. Some of that is from injury, some from draft picks that haven't panned out. But whatever the reasons, a solid gameplan can only take you so far. I'm not sure where the Cardinals are in a couple of seasons, but I'm not so sure they are heading in the right direction.

As for Monday's game, Tampa feels a little more confident now about sitting out a few key players. While fate would suggest that we are doomed in this matchup anyway, and playing starters in week #17 is playing with fire; we still think we can play it safe and still win the game outright.

Bottom line, we would love the opportunity to beat the Cardinals twice in one season and bragging rights are always important. History says we don't win this, but the Bucs have thwarted history quite a bit this year and we expect Monday will be yet another avoidance of the status quo.
Prediction: Tampa Bay 17, St. Louis 13

Thanks for reading, take it easy, and GO BUCS!

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

It was all my pleasure to give the Buccaneers a little boost in their race for home field advantage.


Edit: And I forgot to say, this things starts looking better and better. I'll probably fail to check in every day for the updates, but won't forget to tune in once every week or so!

Thanks, I only update this on the weekends right now. The new regular features are 'Weekend Report' which showcases the team I am playing on Monday (to give a little more exposure to the other GEFL teams). Consequently, as luck would have it, three of the first four teams I got to focus on were my division rivals which is really the most fun for me. The other feature, 'The Week That Was' s just to review what's happening for my Bucs.

The offseason will continue to focus on roster building.

[VPI97]

Good stuff

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by VPI97

Good stuff

Thanks.

[fantastic flying froggies]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

Edit: And I forgot to say, this things starts looking better and better. I'll probably fail to check in every day for the updates, but won't forget to tune in once every week or so!

Agreed, you seem to have found the right pace and level of details for this dynasty, suiting both yourself and us readers.

Keep it coming!

[Dutch]

THE WEEK THAT WAS: HOMEFIELD THROUGHOUT!
Tampa (FL) - The Bucs (14-2) went in to St. Louis with one goal. Win at all costs. They knew that losing would leave the future of homefield advantage in the hands of the Washington Redskins. So with that in mind, the Bucs did just that, winning 20-10 over the St. Louis Cardinals (7-9). That was the first sweep of the Cardinals in Buccaneers history, and it couldn't have come at a better time.

The 14 wins is a GEFL best this year and shattered my own personal best as a MP team owner (Previous record was 11 wins in IHOF with the Knights).

STORY OF THE WEEK: QB Neil Lomax - ACL Tear - OUT FOR THE SEASON!

Continuing on with the 'Week That Was' segment is our big 'Story of the Week'. The victory over the Cardinals mostly a good day, but it was tainted heavily by the loss of QB Neil Lomax early in the game. A draw play on 3rd and 6 designed for rookie RB John E. Walker. Nobody even made contact with Lomax.

"It was just one of those weird turf injuries." explained offensive coordinator Kelly Ackerman. "The turf conditions in St. Louis are bad. The play was designed for Neil to hand the ball off to Walker on a draw and then roll out of pocket. But when he turned, the turf just sort of caught his spikes on his planted foot. It's the 80's, those things happen."

After days of debating whether to sit Lomax or start him, the Bucs decided to risk it in hopes of securing home field advantage. What they got was a season ending injury to Lomax and solid enough play from QB Mike Kelly (F/F) to secure the win and have critics question; Why?

Bucs head coach Brock Lukacic defends the decision as simply as anyone could, "We needed home field advantage, it's really that simple. And we were prepared to do whatever it took to get it done."

But if Coach Lukacic was prepared to do whatever it took to get it done, why did he sit RB James Wilder? And veteran guard Bob Kuechenberg?

Perhaps the coach simply didn't have the faith in backup QB Mike Kelly (F/F) to get the job done. If that's the case, there is some bad news for Bucs fans. Right now, QB Mike Kelly (F/F) is sitting atop the depth chart at quarterback.

The Bucs did sign ex-Packer journeyman quarterback Thomas Israel (F/G) to the roster this week to replace Lomax. Who will start for the Bucs then? Nobody knows yet, we'll have to wait and see.

One thing is for sure, the Bucs have made a living this season of playing good defense as well as having a fairly solid balanced offensive attack. So even if young QB Mike Kelly or journeyman QB Thomas Israel will take the helm, they are still a very dangerous team. And that home field advantage? It will be critical in determining whether the Bucs flame out or achieve the glory they were looking for when they risked their star quarterback to gain it.

It should make for a fascinating off-season for the Buccaneers.

PLAYOFF NOTE: The Redskins did win their week #17 matchup against the Cowboys as the Bucs feared, so our victory was essential. We have a first round bye and will await our opponent after the wild card rounds have been played.

The NFC Wildcard round will consist of...

#6 Oklahoma Outlaws (10-6) @ #3 Chicago Bears (10-6)
(sfl cat vs mr bigglesworth)

#5 WC Philadelphia Eagles (10-6) @ #4 San Francisco 49'ers (9-7)
(suicane vs vince)

Congratulations go out to all four owners of those teams and the Washington Redskins (Subby) on successful seasons so far.

INJURY UPDATES: QB Neil Lomax is out for 4-5 months with a ruptured ACL. SS Leonard Smith (G/VG) sprained his knee, but should be mostly healed for our next game. We expect LCB Shaun Gayle (F/G), LDT Gary Lewis (G/G), and SE Tony Griffith (F/G) to be fully healed by our first playoff game. Outside of Neil Lomax, you couldn't have asked for a more fortunate situation regarding our injuries this year.

NFC SOUTH
standings
14-2 Tampa Bayz
10-6 Oklahomax
7-9 St. Louis
6-10 Seattle
x=clinched playoff spot z=clinched division
(Tampa Bay is the #1 seed in the NFC and has a bye week. Oklahoma is the #6 seed and is on the road to Chicago in the Wildcard round.)

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Dutch

(Tampa Bay is the #1 seed in the NFC and has a bye week. Oklahoma is the #6 seed and is on the road to Chicago in the Wildcard round.)

The perfect set up for a playoff version of this rivalry!

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

The perfect set up for a playoff version of this rivalry!

I would love for it to turn out that way. The GEFL's version of the sh*tcan division can then guarantee an entrant into the NFC title game. That would have been unexpected by the pre-season pundits, I think.

[Dutch]

SPECIAL REPORT: THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Chicago (IL) - Viewers across the nation watched a bizarre sight Thursday night as the favored Chicago Bears limped off a hushed Soldier Field while the sold-out crowd of 63,000 fans watched the underdog Oklahoma Outlaws dog-pile backup quarterback Jack Thompson (G/G) after a 21-10 victory. The victory sets up a third meeting between the Outlaws and the Buccaneers, heated rivals since the inception of GEFL.

With Outlaw leader Doug Williams (G/G) ailing, exiled quarterback Jack Thompson--known as "The Throwin' Samoan"--stepped back in to the Outlaw starting lineup to see what he could do. Not only did he step in, but he stepped up. And three touchdown passes later, including a late 4th quarter strike to TE Mickey Shuler (Ex/Ex), Jack Thompson won the Outlaws a football game.

"It wasn't my best game, but I got the job done. I know this is Doug's team for now, but I still have a job to do and when they call my name, I'm ready. It's that simple, really."

Asked if there was any anamosity towards the Outlaws bringing in Doug Williams and benching him after four seasons of up and down play.

"None. Next question."

You couldn't help but wonder what he really thought about it. And in wondering is this the beginning of a post-season quarterback controversy? Jack Thompson played okay (and very well when it counted) but Doug Williams is only listed as 'probable' and is mostly ready to return.

No Problem Choosing the Buccaneers Starter

On the other side of that token, a QB change is in effect in Tampa, but not at the hands of any controversy. The Buccaneers announced today that QB Mike Kelly (F/F) will lead the team in the wake of QB Neil Lomax (VG/VG) devastating knee injury he suffered in the last game of the season against St. Louis.

Questions circulated around the possability of QB Thomas Israel (F/G and freshly signed) getting the nod, being the more experienced of the two, but those were quickly snuffed out by this announcement prior to the NFC Wildcard game.

Bucs lead scout, Chester Corbett was on hand at Soldier Field and reporters caught up with him before the game to ask about that very situation.

After pre-qualifying his remarks as one not in the decision making process, he did have this to say. "He's not the flashiest guy out there, he's no Dan Marino or Jim Kelly (no relation) but he knows what he needs to do and how to do it. The new guy (QB Israel) is an insurance policy, and he knows that."

Can RB James Wilder (VG/VG) and the young Buccaneer defense win the game for the Bucs?

"No." replied Corbett sternly. "You still need a quarterback, no matter how much you pretend you don't."

Relaxing a bit among the huddled beat writers and slightly smiling he asked his audience a question of his own, "Ever seen an undrafted rookie quarterback win the whole damned thing before?"

"Um, No." came a response from his audience.

"Well, let's see if we can't make that your story then."

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Thanks for reading, and remember, Go Bucs!

[MIJB#19]

Bucs lead scout, Chester Corbett was on hand at Soldier Field and reporters caught up with him before the game to ask about that very situation.

Shouldn't he have been in San Francisco to scout the two more likely opponents?

[Dutch]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

Shouldn't he have been in San Francisco to scout the two more likely opponents?

These games are really separated by Saturday and Sunday. He watched both games and was prepared to be in my story either way.

[Dutch]

SPECIAL REPORT: Tampa Bay 40, Oklahoma 13
Tampa (FL) - QB Mike Kelly (F/F) performed beyond expectations Monday night throwing for 244 yards and 3 TD's against the Oklahoma Outlaws in the Divisional Round of the GEFL playoffs. The win gives Tampa Bay the opportunity to face off against the Washington Redskins in the NFC Championship Game.

The Oklahoma Outlaws came out strong, and scored a touchdown on an extended 14-play drive covering 80 yards. But QB Doug Williams, although he toughed it out, was re-injured in the game and didn't do much of anything for the rest of the night.

The Bucs offense on the other hand, refused to hide undrafted free-agent quarterback Mike Kelly and let him loose to see what he could do. The result was 8 of 9 drives resulting in points. The combination of Kelly strikes and Wilder runs was too much for much maligned Outlaw defense.

"It felt good." responded QB Mike Kelly after the game. "I couldn't have asked for it to be any better than that."

He will need to ask for more of the same next week as the Bucs host the Washington Redskins (14-3) in what's looking like a monumental matchup in the NFC. The #1 and #2 seeded teams will fight it out for a chance to go to the GEFL Bowl on Thursday.

Oklahoma begins preparation for next season with blockbuster move

The Buc Blog reported a month ago that Oklahoma needed an explosive back to fit the current style of play the Outlaws want. As a matter of fact, it was also suggested that RB James Jones needed to get out of Dodge.

Originally Posted by Bucs Blog 01/07/07

The big problem for the Outlaws is that their ground game is led by 2nd year running back James Jones (Good/Good). He's not the explosive back that is required for this offense and he has major issues with FB Woody Bennett (Very Good/Very Good). They just aren't on the same page and this lack of chemistry and Jones' lack of ability will ultimately lead to the demise of the Outlaws season.

Now, we know this. Oklahoma has agreed in principle to a deal acquiring RB Billy Sims from the Cleveland Browns (marc) 1st rounder in 1985, along with their 2nd and 4th round picks in 1984. Anything else? Yup, RB James Jones (934 yards rushing, 3.9 YPC, 3 TD's) is also being shipped off to Cleveland.

Definately makes things a bit more interesting in the NFC South.

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Thanks for reading, and remember, Go Bucs!

[Dutch]

SPECIAL REPORT: Washington 45, Tampa Bay 24
Tampa (FL) - Traditionally, the Bucs have done well against the Washington Redskins, but today just wasn't our day. We stayed with them through the first half, but turnovers on our part and a blistering performance by Redskins hurler QB Bert Jones was just too much for the young Buccaneers defense.

It was a great run and a hell of a turn-around for our squad.

Undrafted free agent quarterback Mike Kelly played well and kept the Bucs within 4 at halftime. But standing toe-to-toe with Bert Jones for four quarters wasn't in the cards. It must've been the halftime show that did in the Bucs, because they shut down in the 3rd quarter and fell apart in the fourth.

It was a huge win for the Redskins and it propelled them into GEFL Bowl V to face off against two-time champion Houston (MIJB). They deserve all the credit for the win and on a great season.

Cloudy Future For the Bucs (and probably most everyone else)

This was the last game for us with FOF2k4. Where this team goes from here is anybody's guess. We hope that they can come back and be just as strong next season, but we just aren't sure. It was a great ammount of fun using this version of FOF and finding out what worked for us and what didn't. This 14-2 run was done based primarily off an old Michael Prescott gameplan that was used by me in IHOF with some success. It really seemed to click here in GEFL. Sadly, there's no way to port that over, and no real desire to mimmick it. I've already started working on new gameplans in FOF2k7 and I hope I find some base strategies that work well enough to get back into a position like I was in this week. FOF MP is a lot of fun. But thinking you can get to the championship game is even much more enjoyable. I can only imagine how sweet it is to win the whole thing.

I'm sure Subby and MIJB will be more than happy to inform me! Good luck to both of you on Monday in GEFL Bowl V!

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Thanks for reading, and remember, Go Bucs!