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A Conversation With Bruce Allen

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By IRA KAUFMAN

ikaufman@tampatrib.com

Published: November 9, 2008

Updated: 11/09/2008 12:11 am

AMPA - Bucs GM Bruce Allen recently sat down with Tribune NFL writer Ira Kaufman to discuss the state of the team after nine weeks.

Are you satisfied with a 6-3 record at this stage?

We've had an opportunity to do better, but we've also made the most out of a lot of our opportunities so far this season. I like the grit of the team. There's a resolve here that's very impressive. We have a unique work ethic - and that's something very special.

Describe the team chemistry of the 2008 Bucs.

When we look for players, we look for good teammates. We are proud of each of the teammates we've assembled into our locker room. That process started a long time ago, and it has worked out well for us. We like players who like each other.

Does the bye week come at a good time?

At this point of the season, there are a lot of sore bodies throughout the league. Our coaches have done a real good job of mixing and matching the personnel. We've had some superb play by players in different roles than they are accustomed to. The poster guy for that would be Earnest Graham playing fullback, but everyone is stepping in and helping out.

Which intangibles helped spur the Bucs to late comeback victories at Chicago and Kansas City?

Once again, that's the grit. There's a resolve to this team and a special belief in one another. Our coaches set the tone. We're fortunate that we've had the leadership of Coach Jon Gruden, Bill Muir, Monte Kiffin and Rich Bisaccia in place since 2002. We're the only team in the NFL to keep our coordinators intact over that period.

How do you assess special teams to this point?

Generally, they've been very good. Our coverage teams have had some lapses, but the overall effort is outstanding. Our punter, Josh Bidwell, is having one of his best years and there's a unique story this year with our kicker, Matt Bryant, that is inspiring to everyone in our locker room and really around the football world. We felt everyone's love that they extended to Matt, and he's performed so well in clutch situations.

How good is the division?

The NFC South has always been a good division. I'd say the NFC South has been the elite division in the NFL.

Are you surprised by the 5-3 Falcons?

Surprised, no. We thought their rookie quarterback, Matt Ryan, would be a special player, and Mike Smith's a real good coach.

How's your own head coach doing?

Jon's done well, he really has. We have a lot of new players, and he's been able to blend them in. This coaching staff has done a very good job.

What gives you optimism down the stretch?

I like the character of this team and the resolve of this team. There are so many things you count on when you leave training camp and our players and coaches have delivered. Our fans and our opponents know that we are going to compete hard for 60 minutes.

Are Tampa Bay's red-zone issues keeping you up at night?

The good thing is, I can sleep at night because Coach Gruden and Coach Kiffin don't sleep at night.

How is Carnell Williams doing with his rehab?

What's going on with Cadillac is really inspirational. The more that people say he can't do it, the more he has invigorated everyone who watches him every day. Cadillac is back.

You've won six of nine games, despite some instability at quarterback. Who gets the credit?

That tells me we do a very good job of coaching the quarterbacks and we have quarterbacks who are excellent competitors. It's a compliment to our coaches and players that we have a nice comeback against the Bears to win in OT, and that's Brian Griese. Then we have a nice comeback to win against K.C., and it's Jeff Garcia. We like our depth, and as you can see around the league, there are so many injuries at that critical position.

Is Tampa Bay's young offensive line meeting expectations?

Those guys have great camaraderie and take a lot of pride in what they're doing. I know their teammates believe in them to get the job done. The pressure you put on an opponent's quarterback and the cleaner you can keep your own quarterback's jersey is still the key to most of the games in the NFL.

Are you already looking ahead to the Nov. 16 matchup against Minnesota?

We hope to get some of our injured players back and gear up for the challenge presented by the Vikings. I'm also looking forward to being at Raymond James Stadium that day to celebrate our great veterans and our armed service people. We need to salute them for their great sacrifice.

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