Game Grades – Bucs at Panthers

The window is officially closed.

Which window you ask? Why, its the window that a team is lucky to get open that allows them to be a Superbowl contender. It has been open for the Panthers since 2003, but rarely does it stay open forever. Currently it is closed and locked shut, for this season at least. This Carolina Panthers squad is not deserving of the Superbowl, or even a wild card.

 Offense(ive)
Once again Monte Kiffin shows what a real honest to goodness defensive coordinator can do for a team.  With almost no names on his defense anyone outside of Tampa Bay would recognize, Kiffin was able to completely dismantle the entire Panthers offense. David Carr was unable to get his feet planted and get comfortable all day long. Rushing only four or sometimes three players, Tampa was able to pressure Carr on every snap. Pathetic.

This entire game can be boiled down to the trenches. The offensive line was abused and exploited. They should be embarrassed.

Offensive Grade: F 

Defense(less)

It again is painfully obvious that most of this squad once again are the walking dead. Go through the motions, do just enough to earn a pay check. They don’t deserve another word written about them.

Defensive Grade: F 

Special Teams 

Jason Baker is the team MVP. However, there is still no hint of a return game.

Special Teams Grade: C- 

Coaching 

The only thing I can figure is that Mike Trgovac is a part of a coaches union for the untalented and incompetent.  I am not exactly sure how he has managed to keep his job these years. And to that effect, John Fox as well for putting loyalty before performance and winning.

Coaching Grade: F- 

Sorry fans, the window is closed. At least we have six more tailgates to look forward too.