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Clark Finally Gets Chance To Shine

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By ANWAR S. RICHARDSON arichardson@tampatrib.com

The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 14, 2008

TAMPA - Bucs WR Brian Clark anticipated two events this year, and both are about to happen.

Clark's wife, Shawntae, is expecting to give birth to their first son on Wednesday, but before that occurs, he will be given a chance to prove himself in the NFL.

Tampa Bay WR Maurice Stovall was placed on injured reserve this week, and Clark was promoted to the active roster for the second time this season. Clark will likely be Tampa Bay's fifth receiver and contribute on special teams for the remaining seven regular-season games.

"Here is a guy who has been scratching the surface for a little over a year with us, and he's earned his stripes," Bucs coach Jon Gruden said. "He's a versatile guy. He can play all three receiver positions, and he can play on special teams."

Clark is just happy for a chance to play consistently on Sundays.

"Looking at the situation, it can be a little bit frustrating and confusing at times, but at the same time, because it's me and the things that I have been through, I just look at it like it's the hand of God," Clark said. "He's just taking me through something, not so much for my own self, but he's taking me through for some reason and this is the path he has set for me."

Clark, a former Chamberlain High standout, began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent out of N.C. State in 2006. He was Denver's primary kick returner that season before he was released by the Broncos last season. Clark signed with Tampa Bay six days later.

He spent most of 2007 on Tampa Bay's practice squad, and he was active for only three games this season, but Clark might finally have a permanent NFL home.

"I look at it as, I get this one opportunity to help myself, to help my campaign and show why I belong in the NFL," Clark said. "I can either rise to the challenge or not make an impact. Right now, it's up to me, and that's what I like. It's up to me as to what happens, and that's where I am."

BUCS ARE YAC-ING

Many have grown accustomed to watching Arizona receivers Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald make big plays, but Tampa Bay's receivers are not far behind.

Bucs receivers are fourth in the NFL for most yards after a catch (YAC).

Here are the top five teams:

Tampa Bay has a 4-0 home record, but the Bucs are not the only NFC South team to enjoy homefield success.

The combined home record of NFC South teams Carolina, Tampa Bay, Atlanta and New Orleans is 17-1. The only blemish is a 30-27 victory by Minnesota at the Louisiana Superdome in Week 5 as the Vikings capitalized on four New Orleans turnovers.

Minnesota will attempt to spoil Tampa Bay's recipe for home success Sunday.

Anwar S. Richardson

GARCIA CHARITY EVENT

Tampa Bay quarterback Jeff Garcia and wife Carmella are hosting a Red Carpet Cocktail Reception tonight. Their reception will be from 6 to 10 p.m.

The event will be held at The Home Theater Gallery, which is located at 3300 S. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Complimentary valet parking is available.

Tickets cost $75, and hors d'oeuvres, beverages, a free gift and autograph opportunities are included in that price. There also will be a silent and live auction that evening.

Proceeds of the event will benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay.

"We just hope the community comes out and supports the event tonight," Garcia said. "I think it will be a really positive event, and hopefully my teammates will be able to make it out and show their faces and rub shoulders with the public. It all goes to a good cause to support one of our local charities and organizations. I think it would be a great cause for people to come out and enjoy themselves."

For information, call (440) 250-2104, e-mail donations@garciapassiton.com or visit www.garciapassiton.com.

INJURY REPORT

DID NOT PARTICIPATE

S Jermaine Phillips (forearm)

TE Alex Smith (ankle)

LIMITED PARTICIPATION

RB Earnest Graham (knee)

QB Brian Griese (right elbow)

FULL PARTICIPATION

LB Derrick Brooks (knee)

DE/DT Jimmy Wilkerson (illness)

FB B.J. Askew (hamstring)

RB Warrick Dunn (back)

WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder)

DT Jovan Haye (foot)

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