Head coach Jon Gruden continues to have quarterback problems. 
Gruden’s Choice
After one game with Jeff Garcia at the helm, Gruden has decided to bump the veteran QB down to the second spot. Brian Griese, another vet, will start in his place. Although Tampa Bay is pointing to Garcia’s sprained ankle as the primary reason for moving him into the backup role, the fact is that in the first game of the season against the New Orleans Saints the signal caller was sacked twice and gave up one pick. Garcia finished the game, which the Bucs lost 24-20, with 221 passing yards, going 24 of 41 and completing 58.5% of his throws.
Garcia’s Injuries
Garcia, who at 38 is entering the final phase of his career, missed most of training camp and the preseason with a strained right calf. He sustained the injury late in the 2007 season, and was slow to heal. He also has a jammed pinkie on his throwing hand.
Gruden’s Thoughts
In benching Garcia, Gruden said, “Jeff right now is not himself. We’re going to give him a week off and try to get him ready to go.” The coach added, “Brian Griese is a guy who’s had a good training camp. We’re going to give Brian the ball and rally around him. Hopefully Jeff can get back ready to roll soon.”
Additionally, Gruden angered Garcia when he tried to arrange a trade for Brett Favre. Garcia, who came to Tampa Bay in 2007, led the club to a 9-7 record and top-place in the NFC South. The Buccaneers lost in the first round of the playoffs. Garcia was also miffed with the organization when they did not offer him a contract extension.
Griese’s Background
Griese spent from 1998 through 2002 with the Denver Broncos. He then played for the Miami Dolphins (2003) and the Tampa Buccaneers (2004-2005). Griese spent the last two seasons with the Chicago Bears. He was traded to the Bucs in March 2008. The last time he appeared in more than seven games was with Tampa Bay in 2004 when he played in 11 contests, going 161-for-262 (61.5%) and accumulating 2,632 yards and 20 touchdowns. He tossed 12 picks and earned a rating of 97.5.
Tampa Bay Outlook
The problem for Tampa Bay is that they do not have a starting quarterback who is young enough to stand up to the physical abuse of an entire NFL season or accomplished enough to run the team. Rookie Josh Johnson and four-year man Luke McCown are not considered to be ready to start, lacking the necessary experience. This may be a long season for Gruden and company.
