2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Season
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The 2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season was the franchise's 35th season in the
National Football League The National Football League (NFL) is a professional American football league that consists of 32 teams, divided equally between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). The NFL is one of the ...
and the second under head coach
Raheem Morris Raheem Morris (born September 3, 1976) is an American football coach who is the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He previously served as head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2 ...
. The Buccaneers entered the season attempting to improve on their 3–13 record and last place finish in the
NFC South The National Football Conference – Southern Division or NFC South is one of the four Division (sport), divisions of the National Football Conference (NFC) in the National Football League (NFL). It was created prior to the 2002 NFL season, when ...
in
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, a feat they accomplished after only six games. The Buccaneers achieved the best turnaround in franchise history and became the first team since the NFL merger in 1970 to start 10 rookies and achieve a winning season.
Raheem Morris Raheem Morris (born September 3, 1976) is an American football coach who is the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He previously served as head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2 ...
spent his second season as head coach. The Buccaneers had the third overall pick in the
2010 NFL Draft The 2010 NFL Draft was the 75th annual meeting of National Football League (NFL) franchises to select newly eligible football players. The 2010 draft took place over three days, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, New York, with the firs ...
, with which they selected
Gerald McCoy Gerald Keith McCoy Jr. (born February 25, 1988) is an American football defensive tackle who is a free agent. He played college football at Oklahoma, where he earned consensus All-American honors, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ...
. John McKay, the team's first head coach, became the second inductee into the
Ring of Honor Ring of Honor (ROH) is an American professional wrestling promotion based in Jacksonville, Florida. The promotion was founded by Rob Feinstein on February 23, 2002, and was operated by Cary Silkin from 2004 until 2011, when the promotion was so ...
on December 5 during a game against
Atlanta Atlanta ( ) is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Georgia. It is the seat of Fulton County, the most populous county in Georgia, but its territory falls in both Fulton and DeKalb counties. With a population of 498,715 ...
. McKay's son
Rich Rich may refer to: Common uses * Rich, an entity possessing wealth * Rich, an intense flavor, color, sound, texture, or feeling ** Rich (wine), a descriptor in wine tasting Places United States * Rich, Mississippi, an unincorporated commun ...
, a former Buccaneers
general manager A general manager (GM) is an executive who has overall responsibility for managing both the revenue and cost elements of a company's income statement, known as profit & loss (P&L) responsibility. A general manager usually oversees most or all of ...
, and current president of the Falcons, accepted the award for his late father. The Buccaneers wore
throwback uniforms Throwback uniforms, throwback jerseys, retro kits or heritage guernseys are sports uniforms styled to resemble the uniforms that a team wore in the past. One-time or limited-time retro uniforms are sometimes produced to be worn by teams in games ...
for the Falcons game. Despite finishing the season with a 10–6 record (a seven-game improvement from the year before), the team failed to sell out any of its home games at
Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Tampa, Florida that opened in 1998 and is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL) and the University of South Florida (USF) Bulls college football program. The se ...
, and narrowly missed the playoffs. It is the second NFL stadium that failed to sell out any of the team's home games; the first stadium was
Sun Devil Stadium Sun Devil Stadium is an outdoor college football stadium in the southwestern United States, on the campus of Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe, Arizona. It is home to the ASU Sun Devils football team of the Pac-12 Conference. The s ...
back in
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. This was the team's last winning season until the 2016 season.


Schedule


Preseason

The Buccaneers preseason schedule was announced on March 31, 2010.


Regular season

The Buccaneers' schedule was announced on April 20, 2010. COLOR KEY & NOTES: :Bold indicates division games. : Orange indicates designated
throwback uniform Throwback uniforms, throwback jerseys, retro kits or heritage guernseys are sports uniforms styled to resemble the uniforms that a team wore in the past. One-time or limited-time retro uniforms are sometimes produced to be worn by teams in games ...
game. : Gray indicates that the game was blacked out locally due to low ticket sales.


Standings


Game summaries


Week 1: vs. Cleveland Browns

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers began the 2010 season against the Browns. In the first quarter,
Jake Delhomme Jake Christopher Delhomme (; born January 10, 1975) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL). Delhomme played college football at Louisiana, then known as the University of Southwestern Louisian ...
completed a 41-yard touchdown pass to
Mohamed Massaquoi Mohamed Jah Massaquoi ( ; born November 24, 1986) is a former American football wide receiver. He played college football at Georgia and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Massaquoi has also been a ...
for a 7–0 lead. Buccaneers kicker
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
made a 49-yard field goal to trim the deficit to 7–3. In the second quarter, the Browns increased their lead with a
Peyton Hillis Peyton Derek Hillis (born January 21, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL). Hillis attended Conway High School in Conway, Arkansas and was a highly touted recruit. Hillis attended the ...
touchdown run.
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 3-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams for a 14–10 halftime score. The Buccaneers took the lead in the fourth quarter with Freeman's second touchdown pass, this time to
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
. The Buccaneers held the Browns scoreless in the second half and won their first opening day game since 2005.


Week 2: at Carolina Panthers

The Buccaneers took a 7–0 lead after a 14-yard touchdown pass from
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
to
Earnest Graham Earnest Graham Jr. (born January 15, 1980) is an American former college and professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL) for eight seasons. He played college football for the University of Florida ...
. Carolina tied answered with Matt Moore completing a 37-yard touchdown pass to
Steve Smith Stephen, Steve, Stevie, or Steven Smith may refer to: Academics * Steve Smith (political scientist) (born 1952), British international relations theorist and senior university manager * Stephen Smith (journalist) (born 1956), American journalist, ...
. Tampa Bay scored a 35-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams to take a 14–7 lead into half time.
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
scored two field goals in the second half, and Tampa Bay won 20–7. The Buccaneers defense dominated Carolina, holding
Jonathan Stewart Jonathan Creon Stewart (born March 21, 1987) is a former American football running back. He played college football at the University of Oregon and was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the first round (13th overall) of the 2008 NFL Draft. H ...
and
DeAngelo Williams DeAngelo Chondon Williams (born April 25, 1983) is a former American football running back and professional wrestler. He played college football at Memphis, and was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He st ...
to 43 and 54 yards rushing, respectively. Matt Moore completed only 6 of 16 passes with one interception, while being sacked four times. Moore was benched in favor of rookie
Jimmy Clausen James Richard Clausen (born September 21, 1987) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) from 2010 to 2015. He played college football at Notre Dame and was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in t ...
, who was unable to rally the Panthers.
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
passed for 178 yards and two touchdowns. With the win, Tampa Bay improved to 2–0.


Week 3: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Tampa Bay took an early 3–0 lead with
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
's 40-yard field goal. However,
Pittsburgh Pittsburgh ( ) is a city in the Commonwealth (U.S. state), Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, United States, and the county seat of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Allegheny County. It is the most populous city in both Allegheny County and Wester ...
dominated the remainder of the game.
Mike Wallace Myron Leon Wallace (May 9, 1918 – April 7, 2012) was an American journalist, game show host, actor, and media personality. He interviewed a wide range of prominent newsmakers during his seven-decade career. He was one of the original correspo ...
caught two touchdown passes of 46 yards and 41 yards, respectively. The Steelers rushed for 201 yards, and routed Tampa Bay 38–13.


Week 5: at Cincinnati Bengals

Coming out of their bye week, the Buccaneers traveled to Cincinnati to face the Bengals. The Bengals took an early 7–0 lead after
Carson Palmer Carson Hilton Palmer (born December 27, 1979) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals. He played college football at ...
threw a 43-yard touchdown pass to
Terrell Owens Terrell Eldorado Owens (; born December 7, 1973), nicknamed T.O., is an American football wide receiver for the Knights of Degen of Fan Controlled Football (FCF). He previously played in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons. Regar ...
. At the end the first quarter, the Buccaneers pinned the Bengals back at their own 6-yard line. One the first play of the second quarter, Cody Grimm intercepted Palmer, and returned the ball 11 yards for a touchdown for a 7–7 tie. A
Mike Nugent Michael Nugent (born March 2, 1982) is a former American football placekicker. He played college football for Ohio State University, and was twice recognized as a consensus All-American. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round o ...
31-yard field goal gave the Bengals a 10–7 halftime lead. In the third quarter, Tampa Bay drove 80 yards for their second touchdown, and a 14–10 lead. the Bengals replied with a field goal, to trim their deficit to 14–13.
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
fumbled the ensuing kickoff, and the Bengals recovered deep in Tampa Bay territory. In the fourth quarter, the Bengals capitalized on the turnover. Palmer found
Jermaine Gresham Jermaine Gresham (born June 16, 1988) is a former American football tight end. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oklahoma, where he received All-American honors. Hi ...
for a 1-yard touchdown pass (along with a successful
Cedric Benson Cedric Myron Benson (December 28, 1982 – August 17, 2019) was an American professional football player who was a running back in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Texas Longhorns and was recognized as a co ...
2-point conversion run) to take a 21–14 lead. The teams traded possession twice, and with 2:28 remaining, the Bengals faced 3rd down & 8 at their own 43-yard line. Tampa Bay had no timeouts, and a first down would secure the win for Cincinnati. Palmer was intercepted by
Aqib Talib Aqib Talib (born February 13, 1986) is a former American football cornerback. He played college football at the University of Kansas, where he received consensus All-American honors, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first ro ...
at the 50-yard line. Five plays later,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 20-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams. With 25 second left, the Buccaneers again intercepted Palmer.
Sabby Piscitelli Sabatino "Sabby" Piscitelli (born August 24, 1983) is an American former professional wrestler and former American football player. He is known for his time in WWE, under the ring name Tino Sabbatelli. He also worked for All Elite Wrestling (AEW ...
returned the ball to the Cincinnati 34-yard line. With 5 seconds left in regulation,
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
made a 31-yard field goal to win the game 24–21.


Week 6: vs. New Orleans Saints

Tampa Bay trailed early after
Drew Brees Drew Christopher Brees (; born January 15, 1979) is an American former football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 20 seasons. A member of the New Orleans Saints for most of his career, Brees is the NFL leader in ...
completed touchdown passes of 41 yards and 42 yards to
Lance Moore Lance Andrew Moore (born August 31, 1983) is a former American football wide receiver who played over ten seasons professionally in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Toledo. He was signed by the Cleveland Brown ...
and
Robert Meachem Robert Emery Meachem (born September 28, 1984) is a former American football wide receiver. He played college football at Tennessee and was drafted by the New Orleans Saints 27th overall in the 2007 NFL draft. Meachem also played one season ...
. New Orleans led Tampa Bay 24–0 at the end of the third quarter. Tampa Bay scored in the fourth quarter with
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completing 2-yard touchdown pass to
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
, and avoided a shutout.


Week 7: vs. St. Louis Rams

Tampa Bay took the lead 3–0 as kicker
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
made a 35-yard field goal. The Rams, however, scored 17 unanswered points in the second quarter. Josh Brown made a 25-yard field goal. The next two Rams drives saw two
Sam Bradford Samuel Jacob Bradford (born November 8, 1987) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons, most notably with the St. Louis Rams and Minnesota Vikings. He was also a member of the P ...
touchdown passes to
Danny Amendola Daniel James Amendola (born November 2, 1985) is a former American football wide receiver. He played college football at Texas Tech. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2008. After spending his entire rookie season ...
and
Michael Hoomanawanui Michael Patrick Hoomanawanui (; nicknamed the "Hoo Man", born July 4, 1988) is a former American football tight end of Hawaiian and Italian-Irish descent. He was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the fifth round (132nd overall) of the 2010 NFL Dr ...
, respectively. Barth nailed a 39-yard field goal at the end of the second quarter, and the Rams took a 17–6 lead into halftime. The Buccaneers offense continued to sputter in the second half. Barth connected on two more field goals (53 yards and 38 yards) to trim the score to 17–12. The Tampa Bay defense held the Rams scoreless in the third quarter. With 4:45 remaining in the fourth quarter, the Buccaneer offense finally broke through.
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
led the team on a 16-play, 81-yard drive, capped off by a 1-yard touchdown pass to "Cadillac" Williams with 10 seconds left in the game. A failed two-point conversion followed, but the Buccaneers held on to win 18–17.
Jerramy Stevens Jerramy Ryan Stevens (born November 13, 1979) is a former American football tight end. He played college football at Washington and was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. Stevens played for the Seahawks an ...
was left inactive for the game, following a drug-related arrest the night before the game. A day later, Stevens was released.


Week 8: at Arizona Cardinals

The Buccaneers won their fifth straight road game (dating back to the previous season) with a shootout win against the
Cardinals Cardinal or The Cardinal may refer to: Animals * Cardinal (bird) or Cardinalidae, a family of North and South American birds **''Cardinalis'', genus of cardinal in the family Cardinalidae **''Cardinalis cardinalis'', or northern cardinal, the ...
. Arizona took the early lead after a 3-yard touchdown pass from
Max Hall Max Hall (born October 1, 1985) is a former American National Football League (NFL) and Canadian Football League quarterback. After playing college football for BYU, he was signed by the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2010. Hal ...
to
Larry Fitzgerald Larry Darnell Fitzgerald Jr. (born August 31, 1983) is a former American football wide receiver. Fitzgerald played in the National Football League for 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. He played college football at University of Pittsburg ...
. On their next drive,
Geno Hayes Eugene Antonio "Geno" Hayes (August 10, 1987 – April 26, 2021) was an American professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). After playing college football for the Florida State Seminoles, he was sele ...
intercepted Hall, and returned 41-yards for a touchdown. Early in the second quarter, Buccaneers returner
Sammie Stroughter Sammie Stroughter (born January 3, 1986) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State Beavers football, Oregon State. Early ye ...
muffed a punt and the ball was recovered by the Cardinals at the Tampa Bay 16-yard line.
Beanie Wells Christopher Michael Wells (born August 7, 1988), known as Chris Wells or Beanie Wells, is a former American football running back. He was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the first round (31st overall pick) of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Ohi ...
scored a 1-yard touchdown run off the turnover, and the Cardinals led 14–7. On the ensuing drive,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
drove the Buccaneers 80 yards in only three plays, completing a 47-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams and a 14–14 tie. Four plays later,
Aqib Talib Aqib Talib (born February 13, 1986) is a former American football cornerback. He played college football at the University of Kansas, where he received consensus All-American honors, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first ro ...
returned Hall's second interception 45 yards for a touchdown and the Buccaneers led 21–14. Hall was benched in favor of Derek Anderson. Anderson drove the Cardinals to the Tampa Bay 3-yard line, but threw incomplete on a 4th down & 2 and turned the ball over on downs. Tampa Bay drove 94 yards in the final three minutes, and
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
kicked a field goal as the half expired. In the third quarter, Tampa Bay increased their lead to 31–14 after a
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
touchdown run. Arizona rallied, however.
LaRod Stephens-Howling LaRod Stephens-Howling (born April 26, 1987) is a former American football running back and kickoff returner. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Pittsburgh. He was als ...
rushed for a 30-yard touchdown with one minute left in the third quarter. Blount fumbled the ball on the first play of the ensuing drive, and
Gerald Hayes Gerald Hayes (born October 10, 1980) is a former American football linebacker. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Pittsburgh. Early years Hayes played his high school ...
recovered the ball 21 yards for a Cardinals touchdown. With 9:46 left in the game, Arizona took the lead 35–31 following
Anderson Anderson or Andersson may refer to: Companies * Anderson (Carriage), a company that manufactured automobiles from 1907 to 1910 * Anderson Electric, an early 20th-century electric car * Anderson Greenwood, an industrial manufacturer * Anderson ...
's 5-yard touchdown pass to
Fitzgerald The FitzGerald/FitzMaurice Dynasty is a noble and aristocratic dynasty of Cambro-Norman, Anglo-Norman and later Hiberno-Norman origin. They have been peers of Ireland since at least the 13th century, and are described in the Annals of the ...
. Tampa Bay answered with Blount's second touchdown run, and a 38–35 lead.
Barrett Ruud Barrett James Ruud (born May 20, 1983) is a former American football linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft and also played for the Tennessee Titans, ...
intercepted
Anderson Anderson or Andersson may refer to: Companies * Anderson (Carriage), a company that manufactured automobiles from 1907 to 1910 * Anderson Electric, an early 20th-century electric car * Anderson Greenwood, an industrial manufacturer * Anderson ...
on the first play of the next drive, which set up a 53-yard field goal attempt by Barth. Tampa Bay chose to attempt the long field goal instead of punting. The kick was blocked, and the Cardinals took over with 3:16 remaining in good field position. Anderson drove the Cardinals to the Tampa Bay 20-yard line, but he was intercepted by
Aqib Talib Aqib Talib (born February 13, 1986) is a former American football cornerback. He played college football at the University of Kansas, where he received consensus All-American honors, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first ro ...
, who clinched the win for Tampa Bay.


Week 9: at Atlanta Falcons

Michael Turner rushed for 107 yards and two touchdowns, as the
Falcons Falcons () are birds of prey in the genus ''Falco'', which includes about 40 species. Falcons are widely distributed on all continents of the world except Antarctica, though closely related raptors did occur there in the Eocene. Adult falcons ...
held off the Buccaneers 27–21 in an
NFC South The National Football Conference – Southern Division or NFC South is one of the four Division (sport), divisions of the National Football Conference (NFC) in the National Football League (NFL). It was created prior to the 2002 NFL season, when ...
division rivalry game. The Falcons took an early 14–0 lead after Turner's two touchdown runs of 2 and 10 yards.
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
took the next kickoff return 66 yards to the Atlanta 32-yard line, which set up Tampa Bay's first score.
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 14-yard touchdown pass to
Arrelious Benn Arrelious Markus Benn (born September 8, 1988) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football for the University of Illinois Fightin ...
to make the score 14–7. Atlanta drove to the Tampa Bay 13, and
Matt Bryant Steven Matt Bryant (born May 29, 1975), nicknamed "Money Matt", is a former American football placekicker. He played college football for the Baylor Bears, and was signed as an unrestricted free agent by the AFL's Iowa Barnstormers in 2000. A ...
made a 31-yard field goal to increase the lead to 17–7. With two minutes remaining in the half,
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
found Mike Williams for a 58-yard touchdown pass, and a 17–14 halftime score. On the first drive of the third quarter,
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
was intercepted by
Jonathan Babineaux Jonathan Joel Babineaux (born October 12, 1981) is a former American football defensive tackle who played all 12 seasons of his career with the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Falcons in the second round with the 59th overall pick in th ...
at the Tampa Bay 30-yard line. Matt Ryan threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Michael Palmer. After another field goal Atlanta led 27–14. On the ensuing kickoff,
Maurice Stovall Maurice Aurilius Stovall (born February 21, 1985) is a former American football wide receiver and tight end in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played co ...
bobbled the ball, and
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
scooped it up at the 11-yard line. Spurlock avoided tackles, and tightroped down the sideline for an 89-yard kickoff return touchdown. Trailing 27–21 with 2:44 remaining,
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
had driven the Buccaneers 89 yards in 12 plays to the Atlanta 2-yard line. Facing 4th down & 1 at the Atlanta 2,
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
was tackled for no gain, and held at the line of scrimmage, which turned the ball over on downs. Atlanta remained undefeated at home, winning 27–21.


Week 10: vs. Carolina Panthers

Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Falcons the Buccaneers played on home ground for an NFC South rivalry match against the Panthers. In the 1st quarter the Buccaneers took the lead as QB
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
made an 8-yard TD pass to WR
Arrelious Benn Arrelious Markus Benn (born September 8, 1988) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football for the University of Illinois Fightin ...
. The Panthers narrowed the lead with kicker
John Kasay John David Kasay (born October 27, 1969) is a former American football kicker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 21 seasons, primarily with the Carolina Panthers. He played college football at Georgia and was selected by the Se ...
hitting a 46-yard field goal. The Buccaneers increased their lead in the second quarter with RB
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
getting a 17-yard TD run; but the Panthers replied with RB
Josh Vaughan Joshua "Josh" Vaughan (born December 3, 1986) is a former American football running back. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at Richmond. Vaughan has also been a member of the ...
making a 2-yard TD run. Tampa Bay scored again when Freeman found TE
Kellen Winslow Kellen Boswell Winslow Sr. (born November 5, 1957) is an American former professional football player in the National Football League (NFL). A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1995), he is widely recognized as one of the greatest tight ...
on a 20-yard TD pass. The lead was narrowed with Kasay's 28 and 48-yard field goals, but the Buccaneers pulled away in the fourth quarter with kicker
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
nailing a 32-yard field goal, and with RB
Cadillac Williams Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams (born April 21, 1982) is an American football coach and former running back in the National Football League. Williams was the interim head coach of the Auburn Tigers, the first African American to hold the posit ...
getting a 45-yard TD run. With the win, Tampa Bay not only improved to 6–3, but achieved a season sweep over the
Carolina Panthers The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Panthers compete in the National Football League (NFL), as a member club of the league's National Football Conference (NFC) South division. T ...
.


Week 11: at San Francisco 49ers

Tampa Bay sacked
Troy Smith Troy James Smith (born July 20, 1984) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Ohio State, was recognized as an All-American, and won the Heisman Trophy in 2006. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fi ...
six times, forced two turnovers, and held the 49ers to only 189 total yards of offense, in a shutout win by the score of 21–0. It was the Buccaneers first win at San Francisco since 1980, and the 49ers first home shutout since 1977. Early in the second quarter, Tampa Bay drove 80 yards in 14 plays, culminating in a 6-yard touchdown run by
Cadillac Williams Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams (born April 21, 1982) is an American football coach and former running back in the National Football League. Williams was the interim head coach of the Auburn Tigers, the first African American to hold the posit ...
. Tampa Bay took a 7–0 lead into halftime. With 3:36 remaining in the third quarter,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a pass 33 yards to Mike Williams to the San Francisco 33-yard line. Four plays later, Freeman completed to Williams for an 8-yard touchdown pass, and a 14–0 lead. The Tampa Bay defense forced a turnover on downs, and on San Francisco's next possession,
Ronde Barber Jamael Orondé "Rondé" Barber (born April 7, 1975) is an American former football cornerback who spent his entire 16-year professional career playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He is the identical twin ...
intercepted
Troy Smith Troy James Smith (born July 20, 1984) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Ohio State, was recognized as an All-American, and won the Heisman Trophy in 2006. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fi ...
. The turnover led to Tampa Bay's third touchdown, a 1-yard pass to offensive tackle Donald Penn. With the shut out win, Tampa Bay improved to 7–3 Wide receiver Mike Williams was arrested two days before the game for
DUI Driving under the influence (DUI)—also called driving while impaired, impaired driving, driving while intoxicated (DWI), drunk driving, operating while intoxicated (OWI), operating under the influence (OUI), operating vehicle under the infl ...
charges, but was released on bail and played in the game.


Week 12: at Baltimore Ravens

The Buccaneers traveled to
M&T Bank Stadium M&T Bank Stadium is a multi-purpose football stadium located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the home of the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League (NFL). The stadium is immediately adjacent to Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home of the ...
to face the
Baltimore Ravens The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore, Maryland. The Ravens compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. The team plays its ...
. In a largely defensive game, the teams traded field goals in the second quarter. The game was tied 3–3 with 4:32 remaining in the first half. Quarterback
Joe Flacco Joseph Vincent Flacco (born January 16, 1985) is an American football quarterback for the New York Jets of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Delaware after transferring from Pittsburgh and was drafted by the Baltim ...
struck quickly, however, completing touchdown passes of 65 yards and 10 yards, to
Todd Heap Todd Benjamin Heap (born March 16, 1980) is a former American football tight end who played 12 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). After playing college football for Arizona State University, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in ...
and
Derrick Mason Derrick James Mason (born January 17, 1974) is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver for fifteen seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tennessee Oilers in the fourth round of the ...
respectively, just before half time. Trailing 17–3 with about three minutes left in the game,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 5-yard touchdown pass to
Kellen Winslow Kellen Boswell Winslow Sr. (born November 5, 1957) is an American former professional football player in the National Football League (NFL). A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1995), he is widely recognized as one of the greatest tight ...
. The Buccaneers were unable to get the ball back on offense, and fell by a score of 17–10.


Week 13: vs. Atlanta Falcons

The Buccaneers hosted division rival
Atlanta Atlanta ( ) is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Georgia. It is the seat of Fulton County, the most populous county in Georgia, but its territory falls in both Fulton and DeKalb counties. With a population of 498,715 ...
, wearing their orange
throwback uniform Throwback uniforms, throwback jerseys, retro kits or heritage guernseys are sports uniforms styled to resemble the uniforms that a team wore in the past. One-time or limited-time retro uniforms are sometimes produced to be worn by teams in games ...
s. Tied 7–7 in the second quarter, Matt Ryan completed a 17-yard touchdown pass to
Ovie Mughelli Ovie Phillip Mughelli (born June 10, 1980) is a former American football fullback who last played for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL). After playing college football for Wake Forest University, he was drafted in the fo ...
and a 14–7 Atlanta lead. With two minutes left in the first half, Ryan was intercepted by Sean Jones. With 15 seconds left in the half,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
threw a touchdown pass to Mike Williams, to tie the score at 14–14.
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
kicked a 33-yard field goal, and Tampa Bay took a 17–14 lead in the third quarter. With 12:33 left in the game,
Corey Lynch Corey Austin Lynch (born May 7, 1985) is a former American football safety. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Appalachian State. High school Corey graduated from ...
intercepted Matt Ryan. The turnover led to a 2-yard touchdown pass to
John Gilmore John Gilmore may refer to: * John Gilmore (activist) (born 1955), co-founder of the Electronic Frontier Foundation and Cygnus Solutions * John Gilmore (musician) (1931–1995), American jazz saxophonist * John Gilmore (representative) (1780–1845), ...
, and Tampa Bay led 24–14 with 10:24 remaining.
Eric Weems Eric Grimes Weems (born July 4, 1985) is a former American football wide receiver, special teamer, and return specialist. He played college football at Bethune–Cookman and was signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 200 ...
returned the ensuing kickoff 102 yards for a touchdown. That trimmed the lead to 24–21. On Atlanta's next drive,
Ronde Barber Jamael Orondé "Rondé" Barber (born April 7, 1975) is an American former football cornerback who spent his entire 16-year professional career playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He is the identical twin ...
was called for pass interference, and
Quincy Black Quincy Booker Black (born February 28, 1984), is a former American football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League. He attended the University of New Mexico. High school career Black attended Kenwood Academy High ...
was penalized for a "
horse-collar tackle The horse-collar tackle is an American football maneuver in which a defender tackles another player by grabbing the back collar or the back-inside of an opponent's shoulder pads and pulling the ball carrier directly downward violently in order to ...
." Atlanta quickly scored a 9-yard touchdown pass to Michael Jenkins, and took a 28–24 lead with 4:31 left.
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
led Tampa Bay on a hopeful go-ahead drive. Facing 4th down and 12 at the Atlanta 46-yard line, Freeman completed a 19-yard pass to
Sammie Stroughter Sammie Stroughter (born January 3, 1986) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon State Beavers football, Oregon State. Early ye ...
to keep the drive alive. On the next play, however, Freeman was intercepted by
Brent Grimes Brent Omar Grimes (born July 19, 1983) is a former American football cornerback. He played college football at Shippensburg University and signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2006. Grimes was allocated to the Hamburg ...
at the 19-yard line, securing the victory for Atlanta.


Week 14: at Washington Redskins

Tampa Bay faced
Washington Washington commonly refers to: * Washington (state), United States * Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States ** A metonym for the federal government of the United States ** Washington metropolitan area, the metropolitan area centered o ...
, on a cold, rainy afternoon. The wet conditions saw Redskins kicker
Graham Gano Graham Clark Gano (born April 9, 1987) is an American football placekicker for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Florida State and was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free ag ...
miss two field goals early. One hit the upright, and the second sailed wide left. Despite
Ryan Torain Ryan Devon Torain (born August 10, 1986) is a former American football running back. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Arizona State University. He has also played for ...
already having rushed for 133 yards to that point, the score still remained 0–0. On the Buccaneers next possession,
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
fumbled away the ball, which led to a Washington score.
Donovan McNabb Donovan Jamal McNabb (born November 25, 1976) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for thirteen seasons, primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles. Before his NFL career, he played football and b ...
completed a touchdown pass to
Logan Paulsen Logan Sindre Paulsen (born February 26, 1987) is a former American football tight end. He was signed by the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played college football at UCLA. Before that, he played at Chaminade Colleg ...
, and the Redskins took the lead 7–0. On the next play,
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 64-yard pass to
Arrelious Benn Arrelious Markus Benn (born September 8, 1988) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football for the University of Illinois Fightin ...
, which led to a field goal, and the game went to halftime with Washington leading 10–3.
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
scored field goals on Tampa Bay's first two possessions of the second half. At the end of the third quarter, Washington clung to a 10–9 lead. In the fourth quarter,
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
drove the Buccaneers 79 yards to the Washington 1-yard line. After a 43-yard pass to
Benn Benn is a surname and given name. It may refer to: Surname * A. W. Benn (1843–1915), British rationalist/humanist writer * Aluf Benn (born 1965), Israeli journalist, author and editor-in-chief of the Israeli national daily newspaper ''Haaretz'' ...
, which gave them 1st & Goal at the 1-yard line, Freeman fumbled away the ball and Washington recovered. However, Washington failed to score on their next two drives. With less than 4 minutes left, Tampa Bay took the lead 17–10 when
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
threw a touchdown pass to
Kellen Winslow II Kellen Boswell Winslow II (born July 21, 1983) is an American former professional football player and a convicted sex offender. He was a tight end in the National Football League (NFL) and played college football at the University of Miami, wh ...
, then rushed in himself for the two-point conversion. In the final minutes,
Donovan McNabb Donovan Jamal McNabb (born November 25, 1976) is a former American football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for thirteen seasons, primarily with the Philadelphia Eagles. Before his NFL career, he played football and b ...
drove the Redskins 75 yards for a potential game-tying score. McNabb threw a touchdown pass to
Santana Moss Santana Terrell Moss (born June 1, 1979) is a former American football wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL) for fourteen seasons. He played college football for the University of Miami, where he earned All-American hon ...
with 9 seconds left in regulation. On the extra point try, the snap sailed over the head of holder
Hunter Smith Hunter Dwight Smith (born August 9, 1977) is a former American football punter. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He played college football at Notre Dame. Smith earned a Super Bowl ring ...
, and the attempt failed, giving the Buccaneers the victory by a score of 17–16.


Week 15: vs. Detroit Lions

Tampa Bay trailed
Detroit Detroit ( , ; , ) is the largest city in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is also the largest U.S. city on the United States–Canada border, and the seat of government of Wayne County. The City of Detroit had a population of 639,111 at th ...
7–0 after the first quarter. The Buccaneers rallied in the second quarter, as
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completed a 24-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams, followed by 39-yard touchdown run by
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay trailed 17–14.
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
drove the Buccaneers to the Detroit 1-yard line.
Kellen Winslow Kellen Boswell Winslow Sr. (born November 5, 1957) is an American former professional football player in the National Football League (NFL). A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1995), he is widely recognized as one of the greatest tight ...
caught a touchdown pass, but it was nullified by an offensive
pass interference In American and Canadian gridiron football, pass interference (PI) is a foul that occurs when a player interferes with an eligible receiver's ability to make a fair attempt to catch a forward pass. Pass interference may include tripping, pushing, ...
penalty, and the Buccaneers settled for a field goal and a 17–17 tie. Tampa Bay took a 20–17 lead with 1:44 remaining in regulation. However, Detroit drove down the field, and
Dave Rayner David Michael Rayner (born October 26, 1982) is a former American football placekicker in the National Football League. He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan ...
kicked a field goal for Detroit, and tied the game as time expired. Detroit won the coin toss in overtime, and Rayner kicked the game-winning field goal on the first possession. Had the Buccaneers won (or tied) this game, they would have qualified for the playoffs and denied the eventual
Super Bowl XLV Super Bowl XLV was an American football game between the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Pittsburgh Steelers and the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Green Bay Packers to decide the National Football League (NFL) champi ...
champion
Green Bay Packers The Green Bay Packers are a professional American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the National Football Conference (NFC) NFC North, North division. It ...
a postseason berth.


Week 16: vs. Seattle Seahawks

Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
threw for 237 yards and threw five touchdown passes, tying a franchise record, as Tampa Bay routed
Seattle Seattle ( ) is a seaport city on the West Coast of the United States. It is the seat of King County, Washington. With a 2020 population of 737,015, it is the largest city in both the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest regio ...
38–15. In the first quarter,
Matt Hasselbeck Matthew Michael Hasselbeck (born September 25, 1975) is an American former professional football player who was a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Boston College and was drafted in the sixth ro ...
scrambled for a 1-yard touchdown to give Seattle a 7–0 lead. However, Hasselbeck suffered a muscle strain on the play, and was sidelined for the remainder of the game. Backup quarterback
Charlie Whitehurst Charles David Whitehurst Jr. (born August 6, 1982), is a former American football quarterback who played college football at Clemson Tigers football, Clemson, and was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the third round (81st overall) of the 2006 ...
was forced to take over for Seattle.
Micheal Spurlock Micheal Curtis Spurlock (born January 31, 1983) is an American football coach and former wide receiver who is the special teams quality control coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Arizona ...
returned the ensuing kickoff 79 yards to the Seattle 17-yard line, setting up a
Connor Barth Connor Thomas Barth (born April 11, 1986) is a former American football placekicker who played ten seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at North Carolina and was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undraft ...
field goal. Tampa Bay scored 31 unanswered points, including two touchdown passes apiece from
Freeman Freeman, free men, or variant, may refer to: * a member of the Third Estate in medieval society (commoners), see estates of the realm * Freeman, an apprentice who has been granted freedom of the company, was a rank within Livery companies * Free ...
to
Kellen Winslow Kellen Boswell Winslow Sr. (born November 5, 1957) is an American former professional football player in the National Football League (NFL). A member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1995), he is widely recognized as one of the greatest tight ...
and Mike Williams.


Week 17: at New Orleans Saints

Looking to secure a playoff spot, the Buccaneers played at New Orleans. Trailing 3–7 in the second quarter, the Buccaneers took the lead with
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
completing a 2-yard touchdown pass to
Dezmon Briscoe Dezmon Jerrod Briscoe (born August 31, 1989) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Kansas. Early years Bri ...
. The Saints tied the game after
Garrett Hartley Garrett Hartley (born May 16, 1986) is an American football placekicker who is a free agent. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2008. Later that year he became the placekicker for the New Orleans Saints, for whom he ...
's 45-yard field goal in the third quarter. Tampa Bay re-took the lead after another field goal, then stretched their lead with Freeman's second touchdown pass of the day. The Saints tried to narrow the gap with Hartley making a 38-yard field goal, but the Buccaneers held on to win. With the win, the Buccaneers finished with a 10–6 record, but the
Green Bay Packers The Green Bay Packers are a professional American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the National Football Conference (NFC) NFC North, North division. It ...
victory over the
Chicago Bears The Chicago Bears are a professional American football team based in Chicago. The Bears compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league's National Football Conference (NFC) North division. The Bears have won nine NF ...
later that day gave them the 6th seed due to a strength of victory tie-breaker and eliminated the Buccaneers from playoff contention. This was also tied with the Giants but were eliminated because of Green Bay's tie breaker with them and the Giants.


Off-season


Personnel changes

*
Alex Van Pelt Gregory Alexander Van Pelt (born May 1, 1970) is an American football coach and former player who is the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League (NFL). He previously served as an assistant coach for the ...
joined the team as quarterbacks coach, taking the role over from Greg Olson so that he could concentrate on the offensive coordinator role. *
Eric Yarber Eric Lamone Yarber (born September 22, 1963) is an American football coach and former college player who is currently the wide receivers coach for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He played two seasons in the NFL as a ...
joined the team as wide receivers coach, taking the role over from Richard Mann who left the team. * Robert Nunn left the team leaving Todd Wash with the sole responsibility for the defensive line. *
Joe Baker Joseph Henry Baker (17 July 1940 – 6 October 2003) was an England international footballer. Born in Woolton in Liverpool, England, he spent virtually his entire childhood growing up in Motherwell, Scotland. He is notable for being the first ...
moved from defensive backs coach to linebackers, taking the role over from
Joe Barry Joe Barry (born July 5, 1970) is an American football coach who is the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He previously served as the assistant head coach and linebackers coach for the Los A ...
who left the team. *
Jimmy Lake James Paul Lake (born December 17, 1976) is an American football coach who is the assistant head coach for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He was most recently the head coach at the University of Washington, from 2020 ...
became defensive backs coach. *
Tim Holt Charles John "Tim" Holt III (February 5, 1919 – February 15, 1973) was an American actor. He was a popular Western star during the 1940s and early 1950s, appearing in forty-six B westerns released by RKO Pictures. In a career spanning mo ...
joined the team as an offensive assistant coach. * Chris Mosley became a defensive assistant coach, moving from the position of assistant offensive line coach.


Roster changes


Free agents

* Brian Clark WR – UFA – Signed with Detroit Lions in free agency *
Antonio Bryant Antonio Bryant (born March 9, 1981) is a former American football wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for University of Pittsburgh, and was recognized as an All-American and Fred Biletnikoff Award ...
WR – UFA – Signed with Cincinnati Bengals in free agency * Matt McCoy OLB – UFA – Signed with Seattle Seahawks in free agency * Will Allen FS – UFA – Signed with Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency *
Angelo Crowell Angelo Delvonne Crowell (born August 16, 1981) is a former American football linebacker. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Virginia Cavaliers football, Virginia. He is the ...
OLB – UFA – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Jermaine Phillips Jermaine Phillips (born March 27, 1979) is a former American football safety in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia. Phillips e ...
SS – UFA *
Jimmy Wilkerson Jimmy Boyd Wilkerson (born January 4, 1981) is a former American football defensive end. He was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oklahoma. Wilkerson has also played for ...
DE – UFA – Signed with New Orleans Saints in free agency * Donald Penn OT – RFA – Tendered 1st and 3rd – Resigned on first morning of training camp to 5-year deal. *
Barrett Ruud Barrett James Ruud (born May 20, 1983) is a former American football linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft and also played for the Tennessee Titans, ...
ILB – RFA – Tendered 1st and 3rd – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Carnell Williams Carnell Lamar "Cadillac" Williams (born April 21, 1982) is an American football coach and former running back in the National Football League. Williams was the interim head coach of the Auburn Tigers, the first African American to hold the posit ...
RB – RFA – Tendered 1st – Re-signed with Buccaneers * Jeremy Trueblood OT – RFA – Tendered 2nd – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Mark Bradley Mark Anthony Bradley (born January 29, 1982) is a former American football wide receiver and punt returner who played five seasons in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. ...
WR – RFA – Tendered 2nd – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Maurice Stovall Maurice Aurilius Stovall (born February 21, 1985) is a former American football wide receiver and tight end in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played co ...
WR – RFA – Tendered 3rd – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Rod Wilson Rodriques "Rod" Wilson (born November 12, 1981) is a former American football linebacker and coach who is a defensive assistant for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played ...
OLB – Untendered RFA – Signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars on 17 August *
Byron Storer Byron Donald Storer (born May 1, 1984) is an American football coach and former fullback who is the assistant special teams coach for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). He previously coached for the Tampa Bay Buccaneer ...
FB – Untendered RFA – Taken place on Buccaneers coaching staff as assistant special teams coach, forced to retire due to injuries * Clifton Smith RB – ERFA – Re-signed with Buccaneers *
Elbert Mack Elbert Mack (born July 14, 1986) is an American football cornerback for the Qingdao Clipper of the China Arena Football League (CAFL). He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played college football at Troy. He has ...
CB – ERFA – Re-signed with Buccaneers


Releases

* Clifton Smith RB *
Derrick Ward Derrick LaRon Ward (born August 30, 1980) is a former American football running back in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the New York Jets in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft and played for the New York Giants, Tampa ...
RB * B. J. Askew FB *
Mark Bradley Mark Anthony Bradley (born January 29, 1982) is a former American football wide receiver and punt returner who played five seasons in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. ...
WR *
Reggie Brown Reggie Brown may refer to: *Reggie Brown (American football coach) (1876–1961), American college football coach at Boston University from 1926–1929 *Reginald J. Brown (1940–2005), U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affa ...
WR *
Michael Clayton ''Michael Clayton'' is a 2007 American legal thriller film written and directed by Tony Gilroy in his feature directorial debut and starring George Clooney, Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton, and Sydney Pollack. Clooney plays lawyer Michael Clayton, w ...
WR * Terrence Nunn WR * Mario Urrutia WR * Martin Rucker TE – Failed physical, released day after he signed * Marc Dile OT *
Xavier Fulton Xavier Allen Fulton (born April 18, 1986) is a Canadian football offensive tackle. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at Illinois. Fulton has also been a member of t ...
OT * Shawn Murphy G *
Arron Sears Arron Eugene Sears (born October 25, 1984) is a former American football guard. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Tennessee. Early years Sears attendeRussellvill ...
G * Donovan Raiola C * Chris Hovan DT * Dre Moore DT * Maurice Evans DE * Carlton Powell DE *
Angelo Crowell Angelo Delvonne Crowell (born August 16, 1981) is a former American football linebacker. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at Virginia Cavaliers football, Virginia. He is the ...
OLB * Lee Robinson OLB * Brandon Anderson CB * Torrie Cox CB * Derrick Roberson CB *
Trae Williams Trae Williams (born January 30, 1985) is a former American football cornerback. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Florida. Williams has also been a member ...
CB * Stoney Woodson CB * Emanuel Cook SS * De'von Hall FS *
Josh Bidwell Joshua John Bidwell (born March 13, 1976) is a former American football punter who played twelve seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Oregon. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers i ...
P *
Dirk Johnson Dirk Johnson (born June 1, 1975) is a former American football punter. He is most notable for his four season tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. After playing college football at Northern Colorado, Johnson signed with the Seattle Seahawks as a ...
P * Sam Paulescu P


Signings

* Sean Jones SS *
Jon Alston Jon Alston (born June 4, 1983) is an American screenwriter, director, producer and former National Football League (NFL) linebacker. He has written and produced on critically acclaimed shows such as ''S.W.A.T.'' and '' All American''. His first f ...
OLB *
Keydrick Vincent Kendrick Trepell Vincent (born April 13, 1978) is a former American football guard. He was originally signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2001. He played college football at Mississippi. He last played for the Tampa Ba ...
G *
Kregg Lumpkin Kregg Lumpkin (born May 15, 1984) is a former American football running back. He was signed by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Georgia Bulldogs football, Georgia. Lumpkin also played for th ...
RB *
Ted Larsen Theodore Larsen (born June 13, 1987) is an American football guard who is a free agent. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at NC State. Post-football Career After a ...
C/G * Carlton Powell DE * Donovan Raiola C * Martin Rucker TE *
Trae Williams Trae Williams (born January 30, 1985) is a former American football cornerback. He was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Florida. Williams has also been a member ...
CB


Trades

*
Reggie Brown Reggie Brown may refer to: *Reggie Brown (American football coach) (1876–1961), American college football coach at Boston University from 1926–1929 *Reginald J. Brown (1940–2005), U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affa ...
WR – Traded from the Philadelphia Eagles for a 6th round pick in 2011 draft


Cut during season

*
Jerramy Stevens Jerramy Ryan Stevens (born November 13, 1979) is a former American football tight end. He played college football at Washington and was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. Stevens played for the Seahawks an ...
TE – Cut on October 25 after he was arrested for possession of cannabis with intent to sell. *
Keydrick Vincent Kendrick Trepell Vincent (born April 13, 1978) is a former American football guard. He was originally signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2001. He played college football at Mississippi. He last played for the Tampa Ba ...
*
Sabby Piscitelli Sabatino "Sabby" Piscitelli (born August 24, 1983) is an American former professional wrestler and former American football player. He is known for his time in WWE, under the ring name Tino Sabbatelli. He also worked for All Elite Wrestling (AEW ...
*
Ryan Sims Ryan O'Neal Sims (born May 4, 1980) is a former American Football defensive tackle. Sims' professional career began in 2002 with the Kansas City Chiefs, for whom he played through the end of the 2006 season. He has also been a member of the Tampa ...
*
Chris Pressley Chris Pressley (born August 8, 1986) is a former American football fullback. He went undrafted in the 2009 NFL Draft after playing for five years for the University of Wisconsin–Madison Badgers. Pressley's maximum back squat weight is 770 poun ...


2010 Draft class

After finishing the 2009 season with a record of 3–13, the Buccaneers picked third. The Buccaneers also had an additional second round pick from a trade that sent the late defensive end
Gaines Adams Gaines Adams (June 8, 1983 – January 17, 2010) was an American professional football player who was a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for three seasons. He played college football for Clemson University, and was recognized ...
to the
Chicago Bears The Chicago Bears are a professional American football team based in Chicago. The Bears compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league's National Football Conference (NFC) North division. The Bears have won nine NF ...
, a fifth round pick from the
New England Patriots The New England Patriots are a professional American football team based in the Greater Boston area. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league's American Football Conference (AFC) AFC East, East divisio ...
in a trade that sent tight end
Alex Smith Alexander Douglas Smith (born May 7, 1984) is an American former quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 16 seasons. He played college football at Utah, where he received first-team All-American honors and won the 20 ...
to the Patriots, and two additional seventh round picks; one from the
Jacksonville Jaguars The Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida. The Jaguars compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the American Football Conference (AFC) South division. The team play ...
for quarterback
Luke McCown Lucas Patrick McCown (born July 12, 1981) is a former American football quarterback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cleveland Browns, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints. He was drafte ...
, and one from the
Baltimore Ravens The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore, Maryland. The Ravens compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. The team plays its ...
for defensive end
Marques Douglas Marques Lamont Douglas (; born March 5, 1977, in Greensboro, North Carolina) is a former American football defensive tackle and defensive end who played for five teams in the National Football League during an 11-year career. He was signed by the ...
. The Buccaneers traded their 2010 fifth-round selection and a 2009 second-round selection to the Browns for TE
Kellen Winslow II Kellen Boswell Winslow II (born July 21, 1983) is an American former professional football player and a convicted sex offender. He was a tight end in the National Football League (NFL) and played college football at the University of Miami, wh ...
.


Undrafted free agents

After the draft many of the players that went unpicked are signed by teams to fill out their rosters and create competition for places on the roster. These undrafted free agents have a long shot of making the team for the start of the regular season but there have been some notable recent Buccaneer success stories such as Clifton Smith and Elbert Mack. The following were signed after the draft as first year players. *
Jevan Snead Jevan Bryce Snead (September 2, 1987 – September 21, 2019) was an American football quarterback. He played college football at Mississippi after Colt McCoy won the starting quarterback position over him for the Texas Longhorns football team. ...
QB – Released * Carlos Brown RB – Released *
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
RB – Claimed off waivers after roster cuts, on 53 man roster *
Rendrick Taylor Rendrick Taylor (born April 3, 1987) is a former American football fullback. He played college football at Clemson University. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional A ...
FB – Released * Damola Adeniji WR – Released * Shawn Moore WR – Released *
Dezmon Briscoe Dezmon Jerrod Briscoe (born August 31, 1989) is a former American football wide receiver. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Kansas. Early years Bri ...
WR – Practice squad * Chris Brooks WR – Released * Preston Parker WR – Made initial 53 man roster * Jeron Mastrud TE – Released *
Will Barker William George Barker (18 January 1868, in Cheshunt – 6 November 1951, in Wimbledon, London, Wimbledon) was a British film producer, director, cinematographer, and entrepreneur who took film-making in Britain from a low budget form of novel ...
OT – Practice Squad * Derek Hardman OT – Practice Squad * Rob Okeafor OT – Released * James Williams OT – Released * Lee Grimes OG – Released *
Sergio Render Sergio Orlando Render (born September 13, 1986) is a former American football guard who played college football at Virginia Tech. He was considered one of the top prospects available in the 2010 NFL Draft, but was not selected by any team. Ren ...
OG – Released * Vladimir Richard OG – Released * Michael Shumard OG – Released *
Jeff Tow-Arnett Jeffery Tow-Arnett (born November 19, 1986) is an American football fullback who is currently a free agent. He played college football at Minnesota where he was a Center. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Milwaukee Mustangs in 2 ...
C – Released * Matt Featherston DE – Released * Brandon Gilbeaux DE – Placed on Injury Reserve * George Johnson DE – Practice Squad * James Ruffin DE – Released *
Rico McCoy Rico McCoy (born November 6, 1987) is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He played collegiate football with the Tennessee Volunteers and was considered one of the best linebacker prospects available for the 2010 NFL D ...
OLB – Released * Darrell Pasco CB – Released * Dennis Rogan FS – Released * Matt O'Hanlon SS – Waived due to injury *
Vince Anderson Vince Anderson is an American professional mountaineer, writer and mountain guide company manager from Ridgway, Colorado. He and Steve House won the Piolet d'Or in 2006 for an alpine-style first ascent of the ''Central Pillar of the Rupal Face'' ...
SS – Released * Hunter Lawrence K – Released * Chris Bryan P – Claimed off waivers after roster cuts, on 53 man roster * Chris Mauriello LS – Released


Staff


Final roster


Awards

* Week 5:
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
– NFC Offensive Player of the Week * Week 8:
Aqib Talib Aqib Talib (born February 13, 1986) is a former American football cornerback. He played college football at the University of Kansas, where he received consensus All-American honors, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first ro ...
– NFC Defensive Player of the Week * Week 16:
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
FedEx Air Player of the Week * Week 16:
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...
FedEx Ground Player of the Week * Week 17:
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
FedEx Air Player of the Week * Week 17:
Josh Freeman Joshua Tyler Freeman (born January 13, 1988) is a former American football quarterback. He played college football at Kansas State University, and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Freeman became th ...
– NFC Offensive Player of the Week * NFL Rookie of the Month For December:
LeGarrette Blount LeGarrette Montez Blount (; born December 5, 1986) is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He played college football at Oregon after transferring from East Mississippi Commun ...


Television blackouts

All of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers home games (preseason and regular season) have been blacked out on local television because the games failed to sell out prior to 72 hours before kickoff. The affiliates affected include
WTVT WTVT (channel 13) is a television station licensed to Tampa, Florida, United States, broadcasting the Fox network to the Tampa Bay area. Owned and operated by the network's Fox Television Stations division, WTVT maintains studios on Kennedy Bo ...
,
WTSP WTSP (channel 10) is a television station licensed to St. Petersburg, Florida, United States, serving the Tampa Bay area as an affiliate of CBS. The station is owned by Tegna Inc., and maintains studios on Gandy Boulevard on St. Petersburg's n ...
, and WFLA (preseason) in the Tampa/St. Pete market, as well as
WOFL WOFL (channel 35) is a television station in Orlando, Florida, United States, airing programming from the Fox network. It is owned and operated by the network's Fox Television Stations division alongside MyNetworkTV outlet WRBW (channel 65) ...
, WKMG and
WFTV WFTV (channel 9) is a television station in Orlando, Florida, United States, affiliated with ABC. It is owned by Cox Media Group alongside independent station WRDQ (channel 27). Both stations share studios on East South Street (SR 15) in downto ...
(preseason) in the Orlando market. Despite their improvement and being in the playoff hunt, Tampa Bay Buccaneers became the first NFL team of the 2010 season to not sell out a single home game. The Week 1 blackout against
Cleveland Cleveland ( ), officially the City of Cleveland, is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio and the county seat of Cuyahoga County. Located in the northeastern part of the state, it is situated along the southern shore of Lake Erie, across the U.S. ...
marked the first regular season game at
Raymond James Stadium Raymond James Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Tampa, Florida that opened in 1998 and is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL) and the University of South Florida (USF) Bulls college football program. The se ...
that failed to sell out. The last TV blackout occurred in 1997.


External links


Buccaneers.com – Official site

Pewter Report

BUCPOWER


References

{{DEFAULTSORT:2010 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Season Tampa Bay Buccaneers season
Tampa Bay Buccaneers The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football team based in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league's National Football Conference (NFC) NFC South, South divisio ...
21st century in Tampa, Florida Tampa Bay Buccaneers seasons