The Godfather Explains “The Factors At Play”

April 15th, 2015

jason and lovieIt’s horrible that Father Dungy is buzzing Lovie Smith’s ear, trying to get him to pass on Jameis Winston while fueling the trade-down fires.

But at least a highly respected voice in NFL personnel is speaking logically.

Scouting legend Gil Brandt, aka The Godfather, the architect of the legendary Cowboys teams (pre-Jimmy Johnson), remains employed by the NFL and SiriuxXM NFL Radio.

Typing on NFL.com today, Brandt unleashed a reasoned rant that should be scrutinized by all Bucs fans.

2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Bucs have so many needs that they conceivably would be better off trading out of the first overall slot and acquiring as much extra talent as they could. Even so, that strategy is not without risk, including the fact that any future first-rounders received would be tied to the fortunes of Tampa Bay’s trading partner; consider that if the Bucs were to swap with a team that happened to do well in 2015, they could essentially wind up turning their No. 1 pick into one or more slots in the high 20s, which are not nearly as valuable. The other factor at play: Tampa Bay has a chance to grab a potential franchise quarterback this year, and when you have an opportunity to do that in this league, you have to take it, especially with a less-than-inspiring group of quarterback prospects on the horizon for 2016.

Of course, the guy the Bucs are likely to select — Jameis Winston — is difficult to figure out. When players fail in the NFL, it often ties back to off-the-field issues, and Winston obviously comes with his share of questions. But then, you also hear that he has great work habits, plenty of smarts and above-average football intelligence. This is looking like a turning point for the Bucs’ franchise one way or another; their pick could lift the team into the stratosphere or set the organization back three years.

Brandt really nailed the key elements, especially questionable future QB crops.

Trading down is risky. But what’s more risky is trying to win in the NFL without a great quarterback.

Joe’s been blabbering for more than a year that the Bucs will never win a Super Bowl with the fourth-best quarterback in the division, or fifth-best, as was the case last year. That’s right. Never! Mike Glennon does not have the talent to surpass other NFC South starters.

So the Bucs have to go for it in 15 days. Draft the quarterback most ready to get the franchise on its way back to glory.

100 Responses to “The Godfather Explains “The Factors At Play””

  1. The Real Malloy Says:

    Exactly…his name is Marcus Mariota…

  2. FanOfBucs Says:

    The Godfather…?

    I see no quote from Brooks.

  3. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    I often dream of a better world. One were we win more than ten games a year and chickens can cross the road without everyone questioning their motives.

  4. Senor Mofo Says:

    There is NO way the Bucs don’t take a QB.

    Winston and Mariota are both elite prospects, no matter where you land on the debate over which one is better.

    The only possible reason that the Bucs wouldn’t select one of these guys is if they were trying to intentionally alienate their fans and create outward hostility toward their own team as a precursor to moving to Los Angeles.

  5. Bucnjim Says:

    The one thing everyone needs to consider is the Bucs are 8-10 players away from being a playoff team. History would suggest that even with the best drafts it would take three years to build an average team. More like four with the age and quality of both lines, but let’s just say three. By that time Winston or whoever is QB is in their fourth or last year of their contract. A wasted four years of an expensive contract. Winston may do well with an above average team, but I really do not think he can win in spite of his surrounding team.

  6. Buc1987 Says:

    The Chosen One.

    In 16 days.

  7. Buc1987 Says:

    Bucnjim…if that’s so then Lovie’s a goner.

  8. Bucnjim Says:

    Do not think he is the answer anyway. Just a bridge gap to simply improve and point in the right direction. He is no Gruden and that is a very simple fact!

  9. LargoBuc Says:

    No other player in this draft can lead this team in such a way quarterback Jameis Winston will.
    Sure we could fill alot of holes on this team but what good would it do without a quality quarterback.
    I would also take Mariota in a second over trading down because, while I would prefer Jameis, at least we would still have a quarterback to work with.
    In the second round, I would love to see DJ Humphries fall to us, which could happen due to his lack of “technique” and being considered to be “raw”. If he is gone, we should grab either Tre Jackson or, preferably, AJ Cann. Then take Rob Harvestein in the third, who is considered a “sleeper”.
    Round four will be important. We lost a fifth for G Johnson so we have a tough choice between Penn ST safety Adrian Amos or Will and Mary receiver Tre Mcbride. We probably have to go safety and just hope Evans and Jackson and also ASJ stay healthy. We need a free safety. Conte is very likely to get injured at some point and Major Wright is declining fast. We need a young free safe to learn and take the reins at some point while also relying on Mcdougald to build on what he did last December.
    As for picks 6 and 7, I would go MLB, DE, WR. If we draft good late, there is no excuse why later round players cant progress.

  10. Pat Says:

    Yup. The Boring One…in 16 days.

  11. Joey Says:

    Yeah…who would want to listen to Tony Dungy when you can listen to Joe and Bucs1987

  12. Buc1987 Says:

    BucnJim…but plenty of teams that have taken a QB with the first pick in the draft did improve over time. Just because the team is not ready to make a playoff run, it shouldn’t be afraid to take what could be a franchise QB. Especially a team that’s never had one. Never.

  13. Buc1987 Says:

    You’re damn right Joey. Dungy is boring as hell.

  14. Senor Mofo Says:

    @Bucnjim said:

    The one thing everyone needs to consider is the Bucs are 8-10 players away from being a playoff team.

    ======================================================

    That is simply not true.

    We are one QB away from being a playoff team.

    Hell, that QB could be Glennon. But we all know that this staff is not committed to Glennon, and we all know that Glennon does not have the long-term upside of either Winston or Mariota.

    This staff has to decide who they want to be their field general, commit to that guy, build their team, and win football games.

    Draft Winston or Mariota, let Koetter and Bajakian craft their scheme around that guy, and let Lovie and Leslie focus on what they are supposed to do best. Defense.

    If we do that, there are no more excuses for losing.

  15. Buc1987 Says:

    I think I trust the 75 or so analysts out there that are saying Winston’s the pick vs Dungy and a handful of JBF goobers.

    Mariota’s the pick….why? Because they say so that’s why.

    Too comical.

    All the mocks are wrong about the 1st pick in the draft, yet they rarely ever are wrong about the 1st pick. It’s this very thing that escapes you Mariota loverboys.

  16. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Im all for drafting a QB but in No Universe are we only a QB away from being a contender. I can’t even believe you squared your mouth right to say that Sr Mo Fo

  17. ToesOnTheLine! Says:

    “horrible that Father Dungy is buzzing Lovie Smith’s ear, trying to get him to pass on Jameis Winston while fueling the trade-down fires.”

    So then Joe does that mean you’re saying Dungy is part of that crazy Woody Hayes crowd you were previously lumping all the trade down crowd in?

  18. Newbucsfan!!! Says:

    Before Lovie got to Chicago the Bears were crap from top to bottom and they didn’t like Coach smith either and only proceeded to guide them to 2 nfc title games and a superbowl. Had the Bears had a Winston they would have won it and he would never have come to this franchise. Draft Winston Lovie and let that dude win you a couple superbowls and stick it to chicago for letting you go over cutler.

  19. ToesOnTheLine! Says:

    ^^^

    Hey 87 remember when I said fans where claiming Winston would lead the Bucs to the promised land/SB…see example above.

  20. Buc1987 Says:

    Toes there’s one.

  21. Buc1987 Says:

    All the mocks are wrong about the 1st pick in the draft according to Pat and whoever Tom, Dick and Harry, yet they rarely ever are wrong about the 1st pick.

    It’s this very thing that escapes you Mariota lover boys.

  22. BringBucsBack Says:

    “…their pick could lift the team into the stratosphere or set the organization back three years.”

    I wish he Bucs were only set back 3 years with Josh Free. They wasted 5 (or more) years screwing around with him. It’s been 12 long years since a playoff win; 3 years doesn’t seem all that long to Bucs fans, if it’s getting fixed.

    Do your homework and take the franchise QB, if he’s there, in your opinion Bucs.

  23. Newbucsfan!!! Says:

    1. Winston
    2. DE
    3. OL
    4. FS (Rowe)
    5. Trade Glennon and draft another FS (Holliman)
    5. Trade Martin and draft another OL,DE, or KR/PR,Punter
    6. DE,Punter, or BPA but no mlb or wr

  24. David Says:

    The Doucher in 16 days.

  25. ndog Says:

    Marcus Mariota is going to be average at best, these people that think otherwise are really getting on my nerves. I am just tired of them just saying stupid crap and the Bucs very well may take him but either way he’s probably going to suck. He is weak and timid in fact I am one of the few that will say I would rather us draft Leonard Williams or trade the pick rather than draft Mariota because I believe he would be a complete waste of a pick.

  26. HotRod Says:

    As much bantering back and forth that goes on between the JW group and the MM group, trading down is the only real potential way to screw this up. After 38 years I have no faith this organization won’t find a way to screw it up but I’ll still be a fan. I’ve been defending it for decades, why stop now. (Please just a draft a QB though, and make it Faemis.

  27. Brian Says:

    I just want to win. However, with Buc history which ever QB we select, he will most likely be the wrong one. The other will go on to a hall of fame career. I am FSU alum and would love to see Winston, but in the end I want to see a winner. You can come to my house for crab legs.

  28. MarshallU Says:

    Picking Mariota is 100 times better and smarter than picking Winston. However, whatever they decide to do – Mariota, Winston, Williams or trade, I’m still a loyal Bucs fan and will support them 100%

  29. StPeteBucsFan Says:

    While I’m clearly on the record as having been concerned about the off field “character issues” with Fameis I’ve pretty much gotten past them. Realizing of course there’s going to be a torrent of bad press. But Joe and the rest have convinced me that Fameis is the next coming of Ben Roethlisberger and will lead us to the Super Bowl. I hope we’re all correct and that’s exactly what happens.

    To be honest after seeing Fameis on some ESPN specials and other interviews I’m far more comfortable with the “off field” stuff. He knows he screwed up and admitting that and claiming he’s learned are what I was really waiting to hear.

    And so my final concern is not that he is the next JaMarcus Russell or Byron Leftwich, I find those to be absurd comparisons. Fameis clearly has more talent than those two. The remaining fear factor for me is his on field demeanor in terms of his RB meltdown and Jimbo threatening to bench him.
    IF Fameis is a bust I don’t believe it will be for something off the field or a lack of talent. My only remaining fear is that he’s the next Jeff George. A guy with incredible talent who for some reason seemed to p!ss off coaches and bounced from team to team.

    Before you pounce Winstonites realize how far I’ve come and that I consider that only a minor concern. But all of you have to admit we’ve never seen Fameis lose except once and that looked pretty ugly. What happens if the Bucs go 6-10 next year?

  30. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    SPBF you have questioned Winston before. You will forever be a Winston hater in the eyes of Winstonites everywhere

  31. StPeteBucsFan Says:

    @UFAlum

    Yeah I suppose your are correct. They want it to be all love all the time.

    Fameis himself has done a lot more to convince me than his supporters. At leasst I’ve seeen him finally admit what a knucklehead he was and has learned from his experience.

  32. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    You should know who I am. I am a “Gators n Bucs” guy. I agree, I was the founder of the Trade down crowd here and it was because I was concerned with both QBs for diff reasons. My concerns for both QBs have pretty much evaporated I am just ready for whichever QB the Bucs brass think is best

  33. ben Says:

    M.M. beats Winston on the nfl test but did that get mentioned?..Let Winston play qb somewhere but bucs need the best qb which is M.M.

  34. Pickgrin Says:

    Is it April 30th yet?

    Silly Season is getting old. I’m ready for Winston to get Koetter’s playbook and get to work.

  35. Buc1987 Says:

    ben Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 6:57 pm

    “M.M. beats Winston on the nfl test but did that get mentioned?..Let Winston play qb somewhere but bucs need the best qb which is M.M.”

    The NFL test?

    That does it for you huh?

    BTW it did get mentioned like crazy on this site. There was even an actual article about it…golly gee.

  36. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    LOL……..Are you actually defending Winston or Joe here……?

  37. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    This is like when I used to go to AA meetings. Hi I’m Barry I’m an alcoholic and a serial car thief. My Dad, Barry Manilow, who doesn’t have anything to do with me because he says I’m too effeminate told me to just try and be the best drag queen I could.
    Last night, my best buddies, Robert 9 and SuperSam were hitting my skull bong and then I saw IT….Jameis Winston coming out of the Bucs tunnel.
    Well needless to say it got me a little excited.
    I’ve now come to my senses.
    Draft Winston!

  38. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Sorry that post was meant for87

  39. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    @#BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:
    LOL Thanks for the awesome laugh. You post your comment alot like TBBF would.

  40. Pete Says:

    Bucs need an entire offensive line.
    Then
    They need to improve other positions.

    If they take Winston at #1 all other picks should be Oline!

  41. P'cola Buc Says:

    Mariota will be totally lost if he were asked to lead the team most of this season. Totally lost. Are not Bucs fans tired of long projects, that never materialize into franchise QBs? Winston will be able to play this year, because he has already at least reached a certain level that Marcus still needs to achieve. This is noted in at least 100 mock drafts having Winston as the number 1 overall pick.

  42. port richey george Says:

    joe says:It’s horrible that Father Dungy is buzzing Lovie Smith’s ear, trying to get him to pass on Jameis Winston while fueling the trade-down fires.

    why is it horrible joe?

    tony dungy is a Christian and Winston does not fit into his belief system of what it is to be a buccaneer man. tony dungy would never draft a guy with winston’s off field past experiences.

  43. WalkdaPlank Says:

    Well, in all fairness, people didn’t think there’d be another Johnny Rehab after winning the Heisman as a freshman, then along comes Jameis Winston, and then Marcus Mariota. The QB crop for any given year will always be unknown. But that’s not the point, the point is the Bucs have the No.1 overall pick, which luckily doesn’t happen every year. So pick your guy now.

  44. Sick of the debate Says:

    Sometimes I read these posts on here and I think to myself…..
    Who ties their shoes?

    C’mon peeps, the choice is Winston. Get over it and get on board.

  45. WalkdaPlank Says:

    #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook

    Imposter! We all know the real Barry wouldn’t have the time to be posting here at 7:20 on a Wednesday. He’s too busy out stealing cars.

  46. holymoly Says:

    Tony is a good guy and all, but don’t forget his offense when he was here, run,run,incomplete pass, punt,play defense. Draft Winston and an Offensive line.

  47. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Mariota will be totally lost if he were asked to lead the team most of this season. Totally lost.
    ……
    Really? So a guy who has Improved everything about his game in the last Three years and had his team atop the 25 while passing for 105 TDs to 14 INTS.

    Im not even a Mariota guy. Thanks for contributing your wisdom though.

  48. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    WalkdaPlank,
    No. It’s really me. I steal cars later in the evening now.
    Daylight Savings Time.
    I like the dark.
    And I now like Winston.
    Even Robert 9 and SuperSam are on board.

  49. JBuc Says:

    SPBF: Jameis yelling at Coach Fisher is the least of my concerns with him. As stated on numerous occassions, he is fiery competitor that was losing his first college football game in two years with a chance to win consecutive national championships. Who wouldn’t be pissed off in that scenario? I want the guy that is and not the one that is not.

  50. Buc1987 Says:

    Mariota worked with flash cards of chicken noodle soup, a campfire, sally Jesse Raphael, and drumsticks. That was one of his college plays….

  51. Erik the WiseMMan Says:

    I like Winston quite a bit at this point as well, but I still greatly prefer Mariota. I will be happy with Winston if that’s the way we decide to go. He’s a likeable dude and I love his perpetual passionate optimism; I just feel like Mariota will probably have a longer and more successful NFL career.

  52. Buc1987 Says:

    UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 8:02 pm

    Mariota will be totally lost if he were asked to lead the team most of this season. Totally lost.
    ……
    “Really? So a guy who has Improved everything about his game in the last Three years and had his team atop the 25 while passing for 105 TDs to 14 INTS.”

    Yes really. Have you ever seen Oregon play or run plays. They keep defenses off balance most of the game. Hence your terrific stat line.

    That and the flash card plays coming in from the sideline…

    Gimmick, gimmick, gimmick.

    Why is it so hard for fans to understand this about Oregon and Mariota?

    Do you people not WATCH college football all that much? I say you don;t or you would know where all the those great stats came from. It’s either that or you’re in denial. There’s a reason WHY NFL scouts are saying ity will take Mariota 1-2, possible 3 years just to learn how to play in the NFL.

    No one is making this shyte up. It’s real and it’s out there.

  53. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    Eriktheguywhoowes87ajersrey,

  54. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    Just embrace the inevitable.
    Winston is coming.
    Let’s just hold hands and sing Kumbaya.

  55. John Says:

    The Bucs might not be as far away on offense as we all think. They have two big stud receivers and a stable of backs. The offensive coordinator might be able to put these guys all together. Even though the line looked terrible last year it can be fixed with above average play calling.

  56. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    UF Alum,
    I just picked up a brand new car.
    A pretty Mustang.
    Maybe you would like to go for a ride with me.
    I promise not to bite…too hard.
    Tee-Hee.

  57. Kevin Says:

    I disagree… Cam Newton and Matt Ryan are not Elite QB’s. Mike Glennon would have better seasons than both of those guys if he started every game this year.

    Probably won’t happen but if it does, I’d put money on the bucs beating out ATL and Carolina both with Glennon at the QB position.

    Matt Ryan will regress this year and the panthers will not make any improvement.

    Drew Brees is obviously Drew Brees but there is nobody to draft at QB that is going to be Drew Brees.

    Draft Winston, Start Glennon.

    OR….Draft Fowler, start Glennon.

    I’d prefer them to draft Winston but I will not be the least bit surprised if they draft a pass rusher. First thing I thought of when they brought in Koetter was the Matt Ryan comparisons.

    Don’t hold your breath for them drafting Winston

  58. Buc1987 Says:

    And no GatorBuc…I’m not attacking you.

    I’m attacking the notion that Mariota will just pick up the NFL like an average rookie QB. Just because he was uber-talented with the Oregon gimmick offense, does not mean he’s uber-talented or that it will translate well to the NFL.

    On the contrary. I’ve already posted this before so here goes one more time.

    Marcus Mariota talented as he was in college will be considered a bust within 3 years of entering the NFL.

    That’s not the Winstonite in me talking either…. I know how some morons will take this.

    Why would it be when I’m 1000% sure the pick is Winston? I have no reason to speak ill of Mariota to make Winston look good, when Winston WILL be the pick.

    A pick you, anyone else on this site or I cannot make.

    Winston WILL be the pick.

  59. chickster Says:

    This site is for morons and low thinkers no wonder why Joe just says the craziest none football reasoning I’ve ever heard of Winston is not the pick good job Joe keep leading the dummies off the cliff

  60. chickster Says:

    Winston will be the bust mark my words he cant keep it together

  61. #BarrytheCreepyCarCrook Says:

    Chickster,
    Welcome to the site you moron and low thinker.
    You’ll fit right in.

  62. Buc1987 Says:

    chickster…just show up here on draft and admit that YOU’RE the moron.

    That those 30 or so mock drafts were right and you’re a moron.

  63. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Hey 87….Newsflash……as I have told you many times in the last few months, you get a ‘pass’ from me based on how much you defend Winston on so many fronts and are such a huge FSU fan. However for you to say that Winston is “That much better” and you are ” 1000% sure that Winston is the pick then tell me what your family’ seat numbers are now that you have bought your season tix

  64. Pat Says:

    Gimmick? I think we are at a crucial crossroad where we strive to be one of those cutting edge innovators in implementing an offensive scheme well in advance of other teams that are still in the dark age. It’s like Steve Jobs refolutionizing the rotary phone with a smart phone. Having Chip’s disciple in the Tampa fold is almost like having Chip here in Spirit. Read up Bucs fans, and get up to speed will you please.

    Old Prostyle = Dumb Dinosaur
    New Pro Style = Smart Spread

    NFL Scouts are getting confused by the moment…they know that a significant change is coming and the ball is in motion…a few recognize it, but the Majority do not. Go Mariota!

    http://grantland.com/features/chip-kelly-philadelphia-eagles-nfl-influence/

  65. Buc1987 Says:

    I don’t give a rats ass who Joe thinks will be the pick.
    It’s not too often that every mock draft in the country gets the first pick wrong.
    Then again you have more inside info then they do…

  66. Buc1987 Says:

    Here comes Patty Cake.

    Pat… Mariota’s not going to BE the pick. So it’s irrelevant what I think about him or you for that matter.

    Same goes for Winston. He could be a bust. Does that mean he won’t BE the pick? Nope, not to me and the 30 or more mocks behind me.

    Carry on talking about the next Jets QB all you want…

  67. Buc1987 Says:

    UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 9:16 pm

    “Hey 87….Newsflash……as I have told you many times in the last few months, you get a ‘pass’ from me based on how much you defend Winston on so many fronts and are such a huge FSU fan. However for you to say that Winston is “That much better” and you are ” 1000% sure that Winston is the pick then tell me what your family’ seat numbers are now that you have bought your season tix”

    Newflash : I’m not saying Winston is THAT much better. I’m saying he’s GOING to BE the pick and Mariota will be a bust.

    Newflash : Do you want to know the section? Why are you coming all they way down from Montana to sit in my section with me?

  68. Buc1987 Says:

    Damn some of you fans are so sensitive….

    Calm down, crack open the JD and do a shot.

  69. StPeteBucsFan Says:

    Man I’m either a horrible fan or just don’t get it. I understand that the prevailing sentiment on this board and among the vast majority of NFL insiders is the Bucs taking Winston. I agree with this group.

    But I’ve also heard opinions from posters here as well as a significant if minority number of NFL experts who think Mariota should be the guy.

    And then there is the smallest group of experts and posters who believe trading down is the way to go.

    Like many here I shall support whichever way the Bucs decide to go. The one thing I honestly cannot do is believe that anybody here is crazy or ill informed for holding anyone of those three opinions. How anybody can be so absolutely certain is truly beyond me. I get a friendly wager on the decision but do you really believe somebody who disagrees with you is crazy?

  70. Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:

    Buc1987 it won’t be much longer before this lunacy of a debate is over I just hope grown men are willing to accept what many of us have been stating from the jump. WINSton if the organization is in the mood to win. Never called a play,never took a snap from center but this guy is about to have a longer more productive career than WINSton. Can someone please give me an example of anyone in the league to substantiate that belief.

  71. Buc1987 Says:

    I believe that fans come here and blame Joe for brainwashing everyone on this site into liking Winston. Some fans think that’s all that it is, and it’s simply NOT the case.

    It’s everywhere you look. It’s been everywhere you look for the last 2 months. Nothing’s changed. What Jaws says something and it’s oh Jaws is right.

    Have you people not followed past drafts?

    If so tell me how many times soooooooo many mock drafts got the 1st pick wrong…I’d say 2 maybe 3 times in the history of mocks. They are all on the same page for reason. Believe it or not they have more info than you or I.

    Like it or not.

    Sheesh!

  72. Buc1987 Says:

    Just because I’m a Nole has NOTHING to do with my support of Winston at all.

    I want what’s best for my, our Bucs and that’s Winston.

    That fact that I think it’s a no-brainer….what does it say for the rest of you that can’t see the writing on the wall?

  73. Buc1987 Says:

    Some fans come in here and throw Manziel and Joe around like it’s the same old thing as last season and it’s simply NOT the case.

    Look around the net. Explore. It has nothing to do with Joe’s love of Winston or Manziel.

    IT’S FREAKING EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK….

    I’m taking an hour break. I’ve said enough.

  74. Pat Says:

    Wait last year was Johnny, this year Jameis…Joe what’s on the plate for next year? Just curious. Good nite! Go Bucs!

  75. tval Says:

    So, when jameis whips this abysmal team into playoff shape we’ll have some serious bandwagon jumpers here..good to know, guys..dont forget that. and dont say well, we drafted 8 other players, too..dont wanna hear how “fsu was loaded” lmao!!

  76. Buc1987 Says:

    Ya see that’s what I was just talking about…Pat.

    Look around the net. It’s not just Joe. This is not Manziel all over again or are you not that bright to see it?

    Be back later…

  77. StPeteBucsFan Says:

    @87

    That fact that I think it’s a no-brainer….what does it say for the rest of you that can’t see the writing on the wall?

    Well 87 I agree that it’s Winston. However I do not agree that it’s a no brainer. And so what it says for the rest of the posters who do not believe it’s Winston is that they simply disagree. You do understand that concept right?

    Perhaps they simply do not see you as the all knowing god of football wisdom that you apparently see when you look in the mirror.

    Do you remember Mac Davis 87? I suspect he was thinking of you when he wrote this classic. LMAO

    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    When you’re perfect in every way
    I can’t wait to look in the mirror
    ‘Cause I get better lookin’ each day

    To know me is to love me
    I must be a hell of a man
    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    But I’m doin’ the best that I can

    I used to have a girlfriend
    But I guess, she just couldn’t compete
    With all of these love starved women
    Who keep clamorin’ at my feet

    Well, I probably could find me another
    But I guess, they’re all in awe of me
    Who cares, I never get lonesome
    ‘Cause I treasure my own company

    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    When you’re perfect in every way
    I can’t wait to look in the mirror
    I get better lookin’ each day

    To know me is to love me
    I must be a hell of a man
    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    We’re doing the best that we can

    I guess, you could say I’m a loner
    A cowboy outlaw, tough an’ proud
    Well, I could have lots of friends if I wanted
    But then I wouldn’t stand out from the crowd

    Some folks say that I’m egotistical
    Hell, I don’t even know what that means
    I guess it has somethin’ to do with the way
    That I fill out my skin tight blue jeans

    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    When you’re perfect in every way
    I can’t wait to look in the mirror
    I get better lookin’ each day

    To know me is to love me
    Must be a hell of a man
    Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
    We’re doin’ the best that we can
    We’re doin’ the best that we can

  78. Nole on Sat.-Bucc on Sun. Says:

    Father Dungy the QB whisperer. I’d bet my house he wouldn’t have taking mariota over Luck. I find it difficult to believe he would’ve taken him over an aging Peyton Manning. But has the nerve to advise Lovie to take him over WINSton. Reeks of jealousy if you ask me.

  79. BoJim Says:

    Kevin Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 9:00 pm

    I disagree… Cam Newton and Matt Ryan are not Elite QB’s. Mike Glennon would have better seasons than both of those guys if he started every game this year.

    Probably won’t happen but if it does, I’d put money on the bucs beating out ATL and Carolina both with Glennon at the QB position.

    Matt Ryan will regress this year and the panthers will not make any improvement.

    Drew Brees is obviously Drew Brees but there is nobody to draft at QB that is going to be Drew Brees.

    Draft Winston, Start Glennon.

    OR….Draft Fowler, start Glennon.

    I’d prefer them to draft Winston but I will not be the least bit surprised if they draft a pass rusher. First thing I thought of when they brought in Koetter was the Matt Ryan comparisons.
    _____________________________________________________________

    Right on. I’d like them to draft Winston but start Glennon. Bet he would do well under Koetter and the QB coach.

  80. port richey george Says:

    the year warren sapp was drafted by the bucs tony dungy was the d-coordinator of the Vikings. tony banged his fist repeatedly on the table and refused to let the Vikings to draft warren.
    this is a fact! this actually happened! why you might ask?
    because the investigation into warren at the Miami u people said he had smoked pot. no proof just draft rumors. the irony of course is that tony ended up coming to the bucs and coaching warren. also, warren ended up being tony’s next door neighbor in their gated community.
    tony dungy believes in character. he doesn’t see that in Winston. he would never have drafted him if he was the head coach of the bucs.

  81. the real Bucobruce Says:

    @1987 for someone who claims to know so much of who were picking and about thedraft and blah blah blah its only 15 days until the draft not 16 you idiot.

  82. Luther Says:

    @port richey george The Vikings selected Derrick Alexander instead and so that means Dungy was very wrong. Will you admit that?

  83. berserker Says:

    Where would Dungy be without Manning

  84. the real Bucobruce Says:

    Tampaaaaaaaaaaaaa can I get a bay.sorry just started thinking about the draft in 15 days

  85. Luther Says:

    port richey george Says

  86. SuperSam Says:

    “Mettenberger and Winston are very, very similar in style of play,” Greg Cosell said, via ESPN.com. “I’d argue Mettenberger is more advanced as an anticipatory thrower and has a little bit better arm.” YIKES!

  87. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Hey 87, that ‘pass’ I gave you keeps looking more and more like a mistake the more you comment. As for calling Mariota a bust and JW a SB winner before either one of them have taken a snap………..well, I will let you and others decide your rationality

  88. UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:

    Bedtime here in Montana. Later 87 and all other Bucs fans!

  89. Buc1987 Says:

    UF Alum that likes a few Noles here. Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 10:33 pm

    “Hey 87, that ‘pass’ I gave you keeps looking more and more like a mistake the more you comment. As for calling Mariota a bust and JW a SB winner before either one of them have taken a snap………..well, I will let you and others decide your rationality.”

    You don’t have to give me a pass. I’ve stated MONTHS ago that I think Mariota will be a bust. You don’t have to like it. It’s my opinion on an opinionated blog site. Nothing has changed my mind about that. In fact it’s only become a stronger opinion.

    Now in the past I did say Jameis Winston will win a Super Bowl within 3 years of entering the league, whether it be with Bucs or some other team. Nothing has changed my mind on that. It’s my opinion. I’ve been plenty wrong before as most fans of this site know by now. Example: Josh Freeman. Although I defended that scumbag, I did say he was an enigma long before Jaws ever said it. Just not on this site.

    Joe…you guys LOVE me don’t cha? Sure there are many readers that don’t make comments, but they sure as hell read them. So you’re welcome. The hits keep coming don’t they….

  90. Buc1987 Says:

    Baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!

  91. Buc1987 Says:

    the real Bucobruce Says:
    April 15th, 2015 at 10:02 pm

    “@1987 for someone who claims to know so much of who were picking and about thedraft and blah blah blah its only 15 days until the draft not 16 you idiot.”

    I lost track of how many days…therefore I’m an idiot? It seems like eons to me. What’s one day? Pipe down you silly sailor.

    It’s actually 14 days 20 hours 38 minutes and 44 seconds away.

    Does that make me smart again?

  92. Buc1987 Says:

    StPeteBucsFan …”How great I am….how great I am”. – Jerry Lee Lewis

    Damn I get blood boiling on this site.

    You people are going to love me after the pick is in.

    I’m actually a really nice guy. Most people that come to this site will attest to that. Things have gotten heated with this silliness.

    I’ll calm down I suppose and snap back like a rubber band. Once Jameis becomes a Buc. I know I can rub people the wrong way. You can take the kid out of Boston, but you can’t take the Boston out of the kid.

    TBBF knows the real me. I’m 100% Bucs all day every day. 365 days a year. Hell I have a Buc Cave in my house. Not a man cave. A Buc Cave. I care about this team with every fiber I have.

    I’m not saying there are not bigger fans than me, but I’m right up there with the best of them. Defending (unfortunately) Winston has not been easy for me. Yes I’m a Nole too, but I’m a Buc fan first and foremost. For I want to be buried with a Buc flag. Yes I take this team very seriously, and emotionally. Some say it’s just a game with a bunch of big men running around in cleats.
    The Bucs are much more than that to me. I went through the crap seasons and endured the ridicule of being a Bucs fan for years. Then I saw them win that Super Bowl, that I still cry over when I watch the DVD. I may not ever see that happen again at 45 years of age. I want to see that happen again, but if it doesn’t I’ll die a happy man for having lived it!

  93. the real Bucobruce Says:

    @87 I apologize,we may have our huge difference but we’re both Bucs fans after reading that last post it really hit home.TAMPAaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

  94. Pickgrin Says:

    LOL ’87 – I see you picked the wrong week to quite taking amphetamines (Airplane movie reference).

    ’87 I forget how long you said you’ve been a Bucs fan. I moved to the Tampa Bay area in ’85 and have been a die hard Bucs fan for the 30 years ever since. Came on board just in time for the sh1tshow quad-fecta eras of Leeman Bennett, Ray Perkins, Richard Williamson and Sam Wyche. 12 straight years of bottom dwelling futility by the boys in Orange with a winking “pirate” on their helmets.

    You think the last 6 years since Gruden was fired have sucked and morale is super low at this point? Try taking all we’ve just been through since 2008 – and then double the time frame – and remove the 10-6 season. – and X4 the number of double digit loss seasons. Now THAT was a tough time to be a Bucs fan.

    When Dungy came to town and brought Monte and Lovie and Herm and Rod with him – that sparked one of the most remarkable franchise turnarounds ever. 12 straight pitiful losing seasons turned into 8 straight winning seasons with playoff berths almost every year – 2 NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl win (Thank You Chucky!!) 1/26/03 was one of the best days of my life. I literally had tears of joy streaming down my face towards the end of that Super Bowl game when it became obvious we had won.

    Point being I guess is that Bucs fans who have been around awhile have a bit different perspective than those who have only been around since the winning began in ’97 or later.

    Here’s hoping that we FINALLY get a real franchise QB. There are no guarantees – but I’ve been watching Winston closely since early 2013 – and he is absolutely one of the best college QB prospects I have ever seen.

    I won’t get too excited too fast though. Have seen too many 1st round Bucs draft picks look like HOFers in their 1st year and then never look the same again. From Michael Clayton to Cadillac Williams to Doug Martin. I want to see Winston get better and better each year and believe he is capable of it.

    I was at Vinny Testaverde’s 1st game ever at the Sombrero. A preseason game against Cincinnati. Bucs were down 31-10 mid 4th quarter – and Vinny brought us roaring back and scored 3 straight Touchdowns in less than 8 minutes. Of course “Donald kicker” missed an extra point and the Bucs lost 31-30 in typical Yucs fashion – but it was still exciting to see Vinny flash that amazing potential. Unfortunately that 1st pre-season game was about the best performances of his NFL career- and we suffered through 6 years of mostly bad QB play from the strong armed, Heisman winning, colorblind, interception throwing QB from the U. In Vinny’s 1st full season as a full time starter (’88) – dude threw 13 TDs and 35 INTs and had a 47% completion rate starting 15 games. OUCH!!!

    I know people are expecting Winston to throw quite a few INTs – but ya think he might fare a little better than Vinny? -LOL

    And just for the record – its not impossible that Winston will be signed at any time now. The Buccaneers agreed to a contract with Vinny and signed him 16 days before the draft that year. (Likely with the Bo Jackson debacle still fresh in their minds and wanting to take no chances).

  95. Andrew 1 Says:

    “bit different perspective than those who have only been around since the winning began in ’97 or later.”

    Thats when I was old enough to know what football is and became a bucs fan. And by the sounds of it, I came of age at the right time! lol crying for the super bowl lol you guys are hilarious. I think I got a little misty eyed but that’s about it. Its understandable though, sounds like you older guys have been through a lot with the bucs.

  96. Iknowmorethanlovie Says:

    Set the franchise back 3 years? This is year 7 of the Glazers rebuild project. What does another 3 years matter? It’s a Bucs Life

  97. Buc1987 Says:

    28 years for me. Ray Perkins and Vinny.

  98. Phil Says:

    They have to take Jameis. He is worth the risk.

  99. pick6 Says:

    take andrew luck off the colts and they are 5-6 pro bowl caliber players away from even being a respectable team. take philip rivers off the chargers and how far away do their playoff hopes look? without Aaron Rodgers, the packers are just a team that does a good job drafting and developing players, and they sure as heck don’t win the superbowl in 2010. A QB is more than just one hole, and the last time we valued a haul of picks over an elite player, we swapped one of Joe Thomas or Calvin Johnson for Gaines Adams, Sabby, and Arron Sears. eventually we turned gaines into our right to draft either arrelious benn or brian price. let’s take the elite prospect and hope we don’t see that draft slot for another 30 years!!!

  100. Bucs_Sam Says:

    Joe you love slammer MG8 as the 4th best QB in the division.

    When are you going to say, Winston will also be the 4th best next year?

    When are you going to say, Winston will most likely be the 4th best the following year.

    Lets be clear, we aren’t drafting Payton Manning or Andrew Luck.

    We are using the #1 pick on a Jay Cutler / Tannenhill / Dalton level QB. We are over paying here.

    We could trade down to a team with a QB we want, and get a pick package.

    I bet we could get Bradford, their first round this year and next. Chip Kelly is dying to get Mariota. We should help make that happen.

    Other available QB’s we could get for the #1 pick via trade today are:

    Jay Cutler
    Rivers
    Foles

    Gil Brandt is correct. We have a $1,000 Chip in Vegas, and the cashier only have $200 left. Why would anyone take only the 200 and say hey it’s better than nothing?

    Why are we just settling for taking less than the value we have?

    Trade that $1,000 chip for 5 $200 chips we can actually cash out.