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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 2, 2008

Bucs RB Earnest Graham vs. Chiefs MLB Pat Thomas

Thomas doesn't have a lot of speed or mobility, but he is tough and aggressive and he is a very good tackler. He is quick to fill the middle of the line and take away a runner's ability to cut after getting through the hole, which is where Graham is at his best. The Bucs will need to get a good lead block on Thomas. That will allow Graham to make his first cut after he gets through the hole, and that will allow him to maximize his runs. Without that lead block, Graham could struggle to mount big yards against the Chiefs.

Bucs WLB Derrick Brooks vs. Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez

This is an intriguing battle between two future Hall of Famers. Both players have lost a step over the years, but they are still as good as there is at their respective positions. Gonzalez has tremendous hands and does a great job of finding holes in zones and creating separation from defenders. Brooks is a good cover linebacker, but he is at his best when he is pursuing a player who already has the ball. This matchup figures to offer Brooks a chance or two at an interception. If those chances come, he needs to take advantage of them.

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