A rash of penalties on the Bucs defense late in the first half gave Dallass its lone touchdown of the game, and eventually gave the Cowboys the win.

BUCS LOSE 13-9 @ Dallas

The Bucs looked as if they would go into the locker room at halftime tied. Maybe down by a field goal. Dallass had the ball just on the cusp of field goal range when the Bucs decided to have a mental meltdown.

The Bucs started commiting penalty after penalty, continuing to give Dallass first down after first down. Finally, giving Dallass a first-and-goal at the four, Brad Johnson completes an easy short pass for a touchdoown and a 10-6 lead.

Joe sensed at the time that might cost the Bucs. And it did.

The Bucs finished the game in easy field goal range unable to convert a four-and-four. A chip shot field goal, had the defense not allowed the late first half implosion, would have tied the game or given the Bucs a win.

Gotta give credit to Dallass’ defense. It played great. Of course the big time first half catch by Michael Clayton used up his quota of big catches for the season. The next time his name will be called the rest of the year will be on a dropped pass.

A frustrating loss. Hopefully the Rays won’t completely ruin Joe’s day.