Russell Gage Talks Critical Drop, Narrative Change
October 20th, 2022
Newcomer Russell Gage is a thoughtful dude, but he’s been a meh addition to the Bucs’ receiving corps despite more catches (25) than Mike Evans (24).
Gage has been banged up all season and had a critical fumble against Green Bay and an end zone drop against Pittsburgh.
If he holds on both times, there’s a great chance the Bucs are 5-1 and everybody is celebrating the greatness of Tom Brady and the steady and savvy hand of head coach Todd Bowles. But that’s not reality.
Instead, the Bucs are 3-3 and there are many questions about what’s wrong with the offense. Gage wasn’t in Tampa last season, so he can’t address what may have changed, but Gage can talk about how things aren’t as ugly as they appear.
“We go out there, we have really good drives, and then we kind of stalemate in the red zone but we got down there real easy. You know? I think we’re just a few plays from maybe this conversation being different, you know us being a real explosive offense — from us being at the bottom to us being at the top,” Gage said this week.
“You know, it’s just a few plays like I talked about before that we gotta make happen that’ll change the whole outcome, the whole outlook of our offense.”
Gage was asked whether he’s noticed a lack of motion and play-action in the red zone. Gage’s response was a resounding “no” and he noted how he dropped a TD in his hands on a play that had no motion.
“We were in the red zone [Sunday] I had one that I should have caught. That’s a touchdown. There was no movement on that play,” Gage said, adding the game film shows there are plays to be made but the Bucs aren’t executing.
Joe appreciates Gage owning up the drop on a precision throw from Brady. And Joe agrees that the Bucs are a few plays away from being viewed a whole lot differently. However, that’s nearly always how it is with bad teams — players talking about how close they are to success.
Ira Kaufman Enters Multiple Tom Brady & Todd Bowles Debates, Talks State Of The Bucs And Picks One Reason For The Steelers Loss, And More
October 20th, 2022 at 4:25 pm
He’s having a tough time adjusting to the Bucs offense. Once he becomes more comfortable he’ll improve.
October 20th, 2022 at 4:38 pm
Bucs have no luck…
AB last year
Gronk retires
Lost Suh
Lost Jensen
Julio a bust
Gage a bust
Rudolph a bust
R. White disappointing
Goedecke disappointing
OL and DL in shambles
OC Lefty terrible so far
Bowles bad so far
Brady divorce nightmare
Injuries left and right
Whole organization seems dysfunctional
When are we gonna get a break!?
What will turn things around?
October 20th, 2022 at 4:46 pm
Kody
Agree with most……except Gage is not a bust…
Maybe we paid him too much but that’s not his fault
The guy had been playing through injury & has still caught more balls than ME13
Give him some time
October 20th, 2022 at 4:47 pm
Gage is not a problem. Absent him, we lose to GB by 11 or 14.
October 20th, 2022 at 4:51 pm
I don’t think it is this way with all teams
He has optimism and those are words of confidence
Of course, talk is cheap
October 20th, 2022 at 4:54 pm
No, Joe. Brady sucks according the posters. Thank you Gage for owning up to the drop. Idiots thought it was a bad throw. We win that game if he catches that. It was also a great throw to Brate in the EZ, but the defender made a good play on the ball. We wouldn’t even be talking about a wedding if they make those catches.
October 20th, 2022 at 4:56 pm
I wish Diva White would eat some humble pie instead of just doing what he does wrong harder and faster. I’m done with the Diva.
October 20th, 2022 at 5:29 pm
Gage had 2 catches against a decimated Steelers secondary. He was billed as Edelman lite, and a stop gap until Godwin got healthy. I hate how they’re using him. I get that he’s banged up, but I expected much more for 10 million
October 20th, 2022 at 5:29 pm
FINALLY, someone saying what I was saying before I decided to acknowledge that the NFL is just an ENTERTAINMENT business as they stated in the Business model and A NOT REAL SPORT.
We are a couple of plays and one hurricane away from being UNDEFEATED.
Once the DISTRACTIONS die down and Brady stops going to weddings, and we become the darlings of bookies nationwide.
We will start winning again!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 5:43 pm
Bowles should offer a family dinner at Berns for whoever makes the most interceptions or something. Make it fun again.
October 20th, 2022 at 6:27 pm
On the subject of motion and play action–Leftfoot and anyone else can downplay the importance all they want. In 2020 every bucs fan and team member saw the improvement when we implemented those elements. It coincided with our offense showing marked improvement.
No excuses.
October 20th, 2022 at 6:32 pm
While I agree with most of your points, CrackWise, I still gotta say, Put down the pipe, bro. You’ll feel much better after about 10 days. LOL.
If you really think the NFL is ruled by bets/wagering, I’d say you are possibly half-right and half-wrong. If this was happening, we’d have heard about it by now.
October 20th, 2022 at 6:37 pm
CrackWise Says:
“Once the DISTRACTIONS die down and Brady stops going to weddings, and we become the darlings of bookies nationwide.”
.
.
I have a feeling that not many people are going to lay heavy on the Bucs’ money line for a while.
October 20th, 2022 at 6:46 pm
D-Rok Says:
“If you really think the NFL is ruled by bets/wagering, I’d say you are possibly half-right and half-wrong. If this was happening, we’d have heard about it by now.”
.
.
We have heard about it. Unfortunately, the complaint corporate “news” organizations don’t talk about things that are supposed to be kept quiet. I present a repost from 3 days ago:
Hunter’s Crack Pipe Says:
I’m pretty sure Crack Wise is on to something. I don’t know if this information is available or not, but I would bet that there was a lot more cash laid on the money line than the point spread yesterday.
Skeptics should watch the documentary on game fixing made by Jessica Savitch. There is a link to it on NewsPunch. She died just a couple of months after it aired. Just a coincidence, I am sure!
October 20th, 2022 at 6:56 pm
Have to agree with Jeff. Holy hell, did I just say that ?
October 20th, 2022 at 6:57 pm
Gage and Julio are both problems. Even when healthy neither is much of a red zone threat, but then neither has been healthy this season. This team is still suffering from the loss of Gronk and AB.
October 20th, 2022 at 7:10 pm
Goatfarmer Says:
October 20th, 2022 at 4:56 pm
I wish Diva White would eat some humble pie instead of just doing what he does wrong harder and faster. I’m done with the Diva.
I used to think he was great too, man am I done–after that giveway first down plus yards knocking Kenny picket over–I am done! We need to trade diva White asap! He will not learn–remember how he lost us the saints game from his many penalties last year? He is not an intelligent person as evidenced by his play. he plays stupid TRADE DEVIN WHITE now!
October 20th, 2022 at 7:13 pm
Things will get better!! Hopefully sooner then later!! I can’t stomach another game like the last!! LFG!!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 7:25 pm
Thank you for saying that this overpriced lousy receiver cost us 2 games. Gage sucks. Sit him. I’d rather give Darden a shot. And getting rid of Tyler Johnson is haunting us.
October 20th, 2022 at 7:39 pm
Kody wow, spot on
Gage was a mistake in hindsight – an elite G or DL would have been a much better spend
Hindsight is always 20/20
October 20th, 2022 at 7:44 pm
After PJ Walker throws for 250 yds agaious when he threw for like 60 against the Rams, maybe people will realize Old Head Coaches are literally a thing of the PAST.
It’s a copycat league so there are plenty of young Head Coaches who could pull a play out of a hat, and it be more productive.
This team is gross right now.
October 20th, 2022 at 7:52 pm
All the negativity of those that haven’t been here for 47 years from day one enduring TRUE disappointment and STILL hanging on!
Sad truly.
However, is anyone looking more forward to the ‘Aints Beatdown tonight?
October 20th, 2022 at 8:18 pm
Go Cards!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 8:21 pm
HERE COME THE SAINTS!!!
Gambling DARLINGS for all of you that are curious!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 8:22 pm
WWF > NFL
October 20th, 2022 at 8:33 pm
Draft Kings sport game APP. Bet the OVERDOG for UNDERDOG ODDS!!!
Game has been RUINED FOLKS, Face the FACTS
October 20th, 2022 at 8:35 pm
These guys get paid We Taught It money for a REASON!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 8:40 pm
10 million a year????
Strong work jay licht
October 20th, 2022 at 8:43 pm
Sadly, look at the Saints O-Line making Andy Dalton look elite.
Our O-Line flat out sux.
October 20th, 2022 at 8:44 pm
TJ Watt would look good in a Buccaneer uniform. We got Hicks instead.
HMMMMM
October 20th, 2022 at 9:20 pm
JJ Watt not TJ
But WHO among you are mad because you’re LOSING your ass GAMBLING on the NFL..
I know why so many are CRYING. Has nothing to do with THE GAME and everything to do with yall losing MONEY!!!
Thats why I never did FANTASY football. You can AFFORD to be a REAL FAN!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 9:21 pm
*Can’t afford
October 20th, 2022 at 9:24 pm
Follow the MONEY
GO SAINTS ummmm I mean Cards…. Ummmm. I wish I knew how to GAMBLE……..
NFL < WWF
October 20th, 2022 at 9:31 pm
@CrackWise
You see my post above? It got posted late. The documentary is great. You can watch Tagliabue dodge questions and explain how the NFL Security division protects the integrity of the sport. Just like how the FBI is protecting the integrity of our government. LOL
October 20th, 2022 at 9:48 pm
@Joe…….After reading the comments for the last couple weeks, quite thoroughly, I am starting to somewhat understand why you are reluctant to upgrade to a newer page that allows for likes and dislikes.
October 20th, 2022 at 9:49 pm
Yet my entire comment is in the corner. smh
October 20th, 2022 at 9:59 pm
The NFL is about $$. When the profession stops being fun for players and coaches it will definitely not be any fun to watch as a spectator sport.
October 20th, 2022 at 9:59 pm
WOW, Jesus made a commercial during the MLB playoff game between the Yanks and Strows!!!
I am impressed!!!
October 20th, 2022 at 10:06 pm
JimbobBucfan
You got that right, just OUT OF ORDER.
Fans, Players, Coaches is the proper order.
Problem is, people like the acting and entertainment PROFESION.
I don’t take satisfaction in call this ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY out. In fact I am TICKED OFF. I Love my SPORTS. Its just to obvious now.
This is why Pete Rose was BANED from even entering a MLB ball park during game days
October 20th, 2022 at 10:08 pm
JimbobBucfan
On second thought, you may have it right TBH…….
October 20th, 2022 at 10:18 pm
Never understood the appeal, desire or want for “likes” or “dislikes.” Therefore, Joe does not consider that an “upgrade.”
October 20th, 2022 at 10:18 pm
PJ Walker move is brilliant. Our record against back ups is one of the worst in the NFL, if not the worst. Would any of you be surprised if the guy shreds our D?
October 20th, 2022 at 10:28 pm
Crackster. #1 rule of crack. Never use your own product.
October 20th, 2022 at 10:32 pm
Crazy how other offenses look competent compared to the bucs. Basing this on watching this Thursday night game.
October 20th, 2022 at 10:44 pm
Yep, both offenses playing tonight are so much more creative and crafty than what Byron the Bozo puts together.
The Jags dodged a huge bullet, and we’re stuck with this complete moron.
October 20th, 2022 at 10:46 pm
Same reason you guys can’t get quality sound for a podcast?
October 20th, 2022 at 10:54 pm
@Joe…………It would probably triple the ‘clicks’ if that makes money. However there are too many ‘um, strong willed people’ that comment here that would turn this place into a circus.
Keep running it like you do! Just have a good IT guy to upgrade your filters please.
😎👍
October 20th, 2022 at 10:55 pm
Do you see what I mean now? Lol.
October 20th, 2022 at 11:08 pm
Guarantee the Bucs offense looks exactly the same against the Panthers.
Byron is too busy playing Minecraft.
October 20th, 2022 at 11:16 pm
Bucs are extremely lucky the rest of the division is terrible.
October 20th, 2022 at 11:21 pm
Macafrey traded to niners
October 20th, 2022 at 11:49 pm
CrackWise Says:
“WOW, Jesus made a commercial during the MLB playoff game…”
.
.
The campaign is called “He Gets Us.”
October 21st, 2022 at 1:04 am
Cool, he’s ‘owning’ up to being a bust so far. Good for him.
How about this though – you’re only being asked to be a #3 WR, and making $10m for it, how about doing a better job.
With that said, I think in the long run he’ll be fine, as a #3 WR, but he’s off to a terrible start. I just hope he doesn’t let it get too much into his head since he does have enough talent to be a productive #3. Of course he’d be helped by Julio actually playing, then he can be a #4 – and as a #4 WR, he’s like Humphries and is a valuable player.
But I do think he’ll improve and be fine by the end of the year.
I hope.
October 21st, 2022 at 1:11 am
CrackWise Says:
October 20th, 2022 at 9:59 pm
WOW, Jesus made a commercial during the MLB playoff game between the Yanks and Strows!!!
—————
I love that MLB is bragging about getting 3-million viewers — for a playoff game including the the #1 market and the #4 market. That’s hilarious.
Meanwhile the Lions vs Steelers week 3 PRESEASON game, where no one was playing, got 5.8-million viewers.
I can’t wait for the Rays to leave so this area doesn’t have to even pretend to care about stupid, dying baseball. The Rays can go woke and broke up in Montreal or wherever they move.
October 21st, 2022 at 1:26 am
I’m still bullish on Gage having a much improved 2nd half. He’s moving around better. Gutted it out playing through his injury.
October 21st, 2022 at 1:27 am
You guys are such downers tonight. I know all the past losing games (a lot more than 3 if you count preseason) were not very fun to watch, at all. I know Devon made some bone-headed plays but he probably got harassed by the team and will wake up. He has made some great plays in the past and even Luke has. I expect the team to do much better in the future, but you all just groan and moan. Give it a couple more games before you give up.
October 21st, 2022 at 2:40 am
I’ve been thinking about Gage…
Really he’s been doing the dirty work. Getting his yards in the middle of the field. And he’s been doing it on a bad wheel.
October 21st, 2022 at 2:58 am
All skill player please report to the Jugs machine afer practice.
Been way too many drops lately.
October 22nd, 2022 at 9:03 am
As a lifelong Bucs fan born in the City of Tampa, I have heard and read the “just a few plays off” from winning that game/having a winning season/being a good team/stopping double digit losing record streak/etc so many times, I may be having the football fan version of PTSD after reading this article.