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Buchanon Solid As Kelly's Backup

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 17, 2007

TAMPA - Bucs CB Phillip Buchanon's only responsibilities Sunday were to replace Brian Kelly, who was out with a groin injury, help contain one on the NFL's strongest offenses and remind everyone why he once was a first-round draft pick.

It proved to be an easier assignment than most could have predicted.

Buchanon did not dominate statistically during Tampa Bay's 31-14 home opener against New Orleans. But while he may have broken up only two passes, he played solidly and did not give up any big plays.

'I think my performance wasn't that good, but I will go back on the film and look at it,' Buchanon said.

Despite Buchanon's harsh - and arguably incorrect - self-criticism, his teammates agreed he stepped up in Kelly's absence.

'He's been in this situation. He understands what we need out of him,' fellow CB Ronde Barber said. 'Until BK Brian Kelly gets right, I think everyone around here is happy with Phillip.'

Buchanon was drafted 17th overall by Oakland in 2002, but he was traded to Houston in 2005 and released the following season. Tampa Bay signed him the next day, and he appeared in 10 games last season, including starts in the final three.

While the coaches continue to be impressed with his ability, the only person not impressed with Buchanon's performance is himself.

'I'm my worst critic, and I need to be that way to get better, but I am very happy we won,' Buchanon said. 'That was the main goal, but at the same time, in order to be the best, I have some things I have to work on.'

JUST HAPPY TO WIN: Tampa Bay lost five of its final six games in 2006, and started this season with a loss against Seattle, so Sunday's victory came as a big relief for the players.

Considering the Bucs dropped four consecutive games before their first victory last season, there is a reason why the team was happy to match its highest point total from last season.

'We got a win. That's bigger than anything that has been said around here the last couple of weeks,' WR Ike Hilliard said. 'Carrying over from last season, to beat the division champs and defend our home stadium is big. To just get a win and play somewhat of a complete game is huge.'

GARCIA SETS RECORD: Jeff Garcia's 15.2 yards per pass attempt broke Vinny Testaverde's previous single-game record for a Bucs quarterback.

Testaverde's prior mark was 14.5 yards against Green Bay on Sept. 13, 1992. Garcia completed 10 of 16 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns, and has been responsible for at least one touchdown in his six regular-season meetings against the Saints. He also passed for a postseason touchdown against New Orleans last season while playing with Philadelphia.

BUCS REMEMBER A FALLEN OFFICER: Members of Sergeant Ron Harrison's family and 27 representatives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office - one for each year of Harrison's law enforcement career - led the Bucs onto the field before Sunday's game. Friends also draped a black cloth over Harrison's seat (he was a season-ticket holder) in Section 308, Row G, Seat 1. Harrison was fatally shot while on patrol in Brandon on Aug. 15. The Bucs also held a moment of silence in Harrison's memory before their Aug. 30 preseason game.

BUCS BITS: Bruce Gradkowski was listed as Garcia's backup with Luke McCown moved down to third string. Chris Simms was inactive and in street clothes for the second consecutive week. ... PK Matt Bryant made a 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter and needs two more to tie Bill Capece for fourth place in team history with 43 career field goals. ... TE Alex Smith recorded a career-long 33-yard reception in the first quarter. ... DL Greg White and Jovan Haye recorded their first career sacks. ... LB Cato June recorded his first interception as a Buccaneer and now has 11 career picks. ... The last time Tampa Bay had a 21-0 lead heading into halftime was against San Francisco on Nov. 21, 2004. Tampa Bay won that game 35-3. ... Tampa Bay is 5-5 in home openers at RJS.

Anwar S. Richardson

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