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Inactivity Frustrates Cadillac

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By ANWAR S. RICHARDSON, The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 27, 2007

Updated: 08/26/2007 11:56 pm

TAMPA - Bucs coach Jon Gruden has a Cadillac with low miles that runs like new and requires little maintenance, but after three preseason games, Gruden might be content to leave that luxury vehicle parked in the garage.

Bucs running back Cadillac Williams rushed four times for 25 yards during Tampa Bay's 31-28 preseason victory against Miami on Saturday. After three preseason games, Williams has only eight carries for 28 yards, which is much less offensive involvement than he anticipated.

'It does take away my momentum, especially when I get the ball once or twice and then I go two or three series without carrying the rock,' Williams said. 'It's frustrating for one. It takes me out of rhythm. Hopefully things like that won't happen during the regular season.'

If Saturday's Bucs offense was any indication, Williams may not have the increased role he desires.

The Bucs ran several three- and four-receiver passing plays, finishing with 37 pass attempts and 28 rushing attempts. Tampa Bay running back Earnest Graham led all runners with nine carries for 34 yards, but the Bucs didn't score a rushing touchdown.

'We wanted to throw it about 50 times tonight,' Gruden said after the game. 'We had some good plays and some missed opportunities, but that was the game plan tonight.'

Williams understood the strategy, but like any competitor, he wants to be more involved.

Bucs running back Kenneth Darby leads the team with 27 carries for 116 yards and one touchdown, Graham has rushed 22 times for 103 yards, followed by Williams.

'It feels good to get out there and spread those guys out, but at the same time, to be competitive and win ballgames, you got to run the football,' Williams said. 'We did get back to it on Saturday, but last year we weren't balanced, so this year we want to be more balanced. Run to set up the pass, pass to set up the run, and we have all big years.'

The problem is Williams believes he could have a huge year if Gruden allows him to be more involved.

Williams rushed for 1,178 yards and six touchdowns and was named Offensive Rookie of the Year two seasons ago. He rushed for 434 yards over his first three NFL games, setting an NFL record, resulting in his shoes and gloves being displayed at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Last season, Williams' role in the offense decreased as he rushed for 798 yards and one touchdown. Williams had 225 carries last season compared to 290 during his rookie year.

Gruden admitted last week Williams should have been more active in his offense, but added Tampa Bay was not a good team and any running back would have struggled.

Regardless, Williams is optimistic he will receive more touches this season.

'I need one good look and I can get going,' Williams said. 'But to be honest with you, as the game goes on, I'm a much better runner vision-wise and my willpower. I just get better.'

Reporter Anwar S. Richardson can be reached at (813) 259-8425 or arichardson@tampatrib.com.

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