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NFL news dominates headlines, even during the offseason
Read full article: NFL news dominates headlines, even during the offseasonAfter one of the wildest offseasons in NFL history featuring blockbuster trades, rapid free-agency movement, record-setting contracts and plenty of off-field drama, the regular season is almost here.
Brady, Buccaneers back on practice field, preparing to win
Read full article: Brady, Buccaneers back on practice field, preparing to winTom Brady concedes a lot has happened in the four months that have passed since he announced he was walking away from the NFL after 22 seasons and seven Super Bowl championships.
AP source: Saints agree with Mathieu on 3-year, $33M deal
Read full article: AP source: Saints agree with Mathieu on 3-year, $33M dealThe New Orleans Saints and Tyrann Mathieu have agreed to a three-year, $33 million contract, reuniting the All-Pro safety with his hometown team, a person familiar with the terms told The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Brady bids football adieu, thanks everyone — except Patriots
Read full article: Brady bids football adieu, thanks everyone — except PatriotsTom Brady took the New England Patriots to the top echelon of the NFL during his 20-year run with the team, filling up stat sheets and the franchise’s trophy case while winning six Super Bowl titles.
With or without Tom Brady, Bucs roster will have different look
Read full article: With or without Tom Brady, Bucs roster will have different lookTom Brady intends to take time to ponder his future but one thing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers already know is next season’s roster figures to be significantly different _ with or without the seven-time Super Bowl winner.
Bucs beat Panthers 41-17, earn No. 2 playoff seeding in NFC
Read full article: Bucs beat Panthers 41-17, earn No. 2 playoff seeding in NFCTom Brady topped 5,000 yards passing for the second time in his career and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers set a franchise record for regular-season victories with a 41-17 win over the Carolina Panthers.
Bucs make it official: Antonio Brown’s contract terminated
Read full article: Bucs make it official: Antonio Brown’s contract terminatedThe Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially severed ties with Antonio Brown, terminating the contract of the mercurial receiver who claimed he was fired in the middle of a game for not playing through an ankle injury.
Analysis: Antonio Brown’s mental health is no joke
Read full article: Analysis: Antonio Brown’s mental health is no jokeAntonio Brown tossed his jersey and shoulder pads toward the bench, threw his glove and undershirt into the stands and ran off the field bare-chested, waving a peace-out sign to fans in the end zone while Tom Brady huddled the offense for an important play.
Brown walks away from Bucs; Brady rallies team past Jets
Read full article: Brown walks away from Bucs; Brady rallies team past JetsAntonio Brown was kicked off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a bizarre, shirtless exit from the field before Tom Brady coolly led the Bucs on a 93-yard drive in the final minutes for a 28-24 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday.
Brown walks away from Bucs; Brady rallies team past Jets
Read full article: Brown walks away from Bucs; Brady rallies team past JetsAntonio Brown was kicked off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a bizarre, shirtless exit from the field before Tom Brady coolly led the Bucs on a 93-yard drive in the final minutes for a 28-24 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday.
Brady, Bucs rout Panthers 32-6 to clinch NFC South title
Read full article: Brady, Bucs rout Panthers 32-6 to clinch NFC South titleTom Brady threw for 232 yards and a touchdown, Antonio Brown made a grand return to the lineup after missing the last eight games and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 32-6 on Sunday to clinch their first NFC South title since 2007.
Arians urges NFL look at vaccination status of more teams
Read full article: Arians urges NFL look at vaccination status of more teamsTampa Bay coach Bruce Arians would like to see the NFL expand an investigation of the COVID-19 vaccination status of two players on his team to include other rosters around the league.
Brady has 276 yards, 5 TDs; Buccaneers rout Falcons 48-25
Read full article: Brady has 276 yards, 5 TDs; Buccaneers rout Falcons 48-25Tom Brady threw for 276 yards and five touchdowns, helping the Tampa Bay Buccaneers extend their winning streak to a franchise-record 10 consecutive games with a 48-25 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Tom Brady throws for 379 yards, 4 TDs as Bucs beat Cowboys in NFL opener
Read full article: Tom Brady throws for 379 yards, 4 TDs as Bucs beat Cowboys in NFL openerTom Brady threw for 379 yards and four touchdowns, helping the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers kick off the NFL season with a mistake-filled 31-29 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night.
Arians: Bucs reach fully vaccinated status ahead of opener
Read full article: Arians: Bucs reach fully vaccinated status ahead of openerCoach Bruce Arians says the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, making the reigning Super Bowl champions the second NFL team to announce they’ve reached that status.
Titans defense shuts down Brady-less Buccaneers 34-3
Read full article: Titans defense shuts down Brady-less Buccaneers 34-3Briean Boddy-Calhoun returned a fumble 42 yards for a touchdown and the Tennessee Titans beat the Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who played without Tom Brady and several starters, 34-3.
NFL highlights minority candidates at QB Coaching Summit
Read full article: NFL highlights minority candidates at QB Coaching SummitTroy Vincent wrapped up the NFL’s three-day General Manager Forum and Quarterback Coaching Summit with a passionate plea to anyone who still thinks there aren’t worthy Black candidates for head coaching positions.
‘I don’t see a reason not to be vaccinated:’ Buccaneers coach wants at least 85% of team to get the shot
Read full article: ‘I don’t see a reason not to be vaccinated:’ Buccaneers coach wants at least 85% of team to get the shotTampa Bay Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians wants at least 85% of his team to get a COVID-19 vaccine.
Tom Brady expects to be ready for Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ minicamp after knee surgery
Read full article: Tom Brady expects to be ready for Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ minicamp after knee surgeryTom Brady expects to be ready for June minicamp with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as he recovers from offseason knee surgery.
Barrett, Gronkowski agree to deals to stay with Buccaneers
Read full article: Barrett, Gronkowski agree to deals to stay with BuccaneersLinebacker Shaquil Barrett and tight end Rob Gronkowski, who came out of retirement 11 months ago to help Brady win No. 7 in his first season with the Bucs, are the latest players to agree to terms to stay with the team. Agent Drew Rosenhaus represents both players and confirmed the deals to The Associated Press on Monday. He signed a one-year, $4 million deal with Tampa Bay in free agency in 2019 and has 27½ sacks in 31 regular-season games since joining the Bucs. Gronkowski played nine seasons with Brady in New England before retiring after the 2018 season.
Barrett, Gronkowski agree to deals to stay with Buccaneers
Read full article: Barrett, Gronkowski agree to deals to stay with BuccaneersLinebacker Shaquil Barrett and tight end Rob Gronkowski, who came out of retirement 11 months ago to help Brady win No. 7 in his first season with the Bucs, are the latest players to agree to terms to stay with the team. Agent Drew Rosenhaus represents both players and confirmed the deals to The Associated Press on Monday. He signed a one-year, $4 million deal with Tampa Bay in free agency in 2019 and has 27½ sacks in 31 regular-season games since joining the Bucs. Gronkowski played nine seasons with Brady in New England before retiring after the 2018 season.
Brady signs extension, frees salary cap space for Buccaneers
Read full article: Brady signs extension, frees salary cap space for BuccaneersFILE - Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady leaves the field an NFL divisional round playoff football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, in this Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, file photo. om Brady has agreed to a contract extension with the Buccaneers that provides the Super Bowl champions with much-needed salary cap relief and will help the seven-time NFL champion reach a goal of playing until hes at least 45. (AP Photo/Brett Duke, File)TAMPA, Fla. – Tom Brady has agreed to a contract extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that provides the Super Bowl champions with much-needed salary cap relief and will help the seven-time NFL champion reach a goal of playing until he’s at least 45. The five-time Super Bowl MVP capped his first season with the Bucs by leading Tampa Bay to its first championship in 18 years. David’s contract, of which $20 million is guaranteed, includes voidable years that make it salary cap friendly.
Brady-Brate trophy pass wows Bucs' Super Bowl boat parade
Read full article: Brady-Brate trophy pass wows Bucs' Super Bowl boat paradeAt one point, Brady was captured on video tossing the NFL's Lombardi Trophy from his boat across the water to a shirtless Cameron Brate in another boat. As the parade came to a close, coach Bruce Arians said the Bucs could easily repeat as champions if the team stays intact. AdFor Tampa Bay players and the team's fans, celebrating their first Super Bowl win since the 2002 season was the main attraction on Wednesday. Ron DeSantis lashed out at the news media when he suggested there is bias in coverage of the pandemic, particularly at the Super Bowl in Tampa. You only care about if it’s people you don’t like.”DeSantis attended the Super Bowl and was photographed at times not wearing a mask despite a requirement to do so.
Bucs hope to keep core together to chase another Super Bowl
Read full article: Bucs hope to keep core together to chase another Super BowlThe Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs 31-9 to win the Super Bowl. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are already thinking about what it’ll take to repeat as Super Bowl champions. If Brady, Arians and general manager Jason Licht have their way, Gronkowski, Brown and Fournette won’t wind up being one-season rentals. “Hopefully we can keep the band together, have an offseason and actually know what we’re doing (entering next season),” Arians said. It changed our entire football team.”AdBrady said Arians, who also has two Super Bowl rings as an assistant coach, deserves credit, too.
Bucs' Javadifar, Locust 1st female coaches to win Super Bowl
Read full article: Bucs' Javadifar, Locust 1st female coaches to win Super BowlTampa Bay Buccaneers strength and conditioning coach Maral Javadifar on the field before the NFL Super Bowl 55 football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Buccaneers, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)TAMPA, Fla. – Lori Locust and Maral Javadifar, Super Bowl champs. Locust and Javadifar became the first female coaches on a team to win the Super Bowl, helping the Tampa Bay Buccaneers beat the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9 Sunday night. The 30-year-old Javadifar is an assistant strength and conditioning coach, and the 56-year-old Locust is an assistant defensive line coach. Soon enough, they’ll get their Super Bowl rings, just like Tom Brady and the rest of the Buccaneers. The ones we have are overly qualified.”AdLast season, Katie Sowers became the first female to coach in a Super Bowl.
New normal: Brady gets 7th trophy in a season to remember
Read full article: New normal: Brady gets 7th trophy in a season to rememberHistory was made, just as it always is, on a picture-perfect Sunday evening at the Super Bowl. Brady adding to his record with a seventh Super Bowl title, but with the long-suffering Bucs, not the front-running New England Patriots? That the Chiefs waded through all that to make it back to the Super Bowl was not all that big a surprise. Brady earned his fifth Super Bowl MVP award. It was, as much as anything, a nod to the new normal — life with coronavirus — meshing with the old normal — Tom Brady holding a Super Bowl trophy.
Buccaneers defense rises to occasion again in Super Bowl win
Read full article: Buccaneers defense rises to occasion again in Super Bowl winTampa Bay Buccaneers inside linebacker Devin White (45) breaks up a pass intended for Kansas City Chiefs running back Darrel Williams, right, during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl 55 football game, Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Bay’s defense finished its redemption tour with a Super Bowl championship. Brees and the Saints beat Tampa Bay twice during the regular season. By taking down Mahomes in the Super Bowl, the Bucs (15-5) avenged three of their five losses. He also took exception with Tampa Bay having only one Pro Bowl selection on its roster, linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul. “One Pro Bowl player and the team goes on to win the Super Bowl?
Bucs' Arians scoffs at rumors, says he's returning 'for 2'
Read full article: Bucs' Arians scoffs at rumors, says he's returning 'for 2'(AP Photo/Ashley Landis)TAMPA, Fla. – Seconds after linebacker Devin White intercepted a pass in the end zone, Tampa Bay coach Bruce Arians started doling out hugs. Arians unplugged his headset, slipped on a Super Bowl championship hat and braced for the traditional Gatorade shower. Together, Arians and the 43-year-old Brady helped Tampa Bay win its first championship in 18 years and cemented their spot in the franchise history books. He took a year off and worked in television before returning to the NFL with Tampa Bay — joining a young team he saw as full of potential. His biggest coup was landing Brady, who engineered yet another masterpiece and won his seventh Super Bowl after six titles with the Patriots.
Brady wins 5th Super Bowl MVP award with vintage performance
Read full article: Brady wins 5th Super Bowl MVP award with vintage performanceHe was the Super Bowl MVP. In 2002, Brady burst onto the scene with his first Super Bowl MVP award by beating the then-St. Louis Rams. And it was then that this march to a Super Bowl victory officially began. At 25 and coming off his first Super Bowl win, Mahomes had Chiefs fans thinking this would be the beginning of a dynasty. Like a five-time Super Bowl MVP.
Brady, improved defense keys to Bucs winning Super Bowl
Read full article: Brady, improved defense keys to Bucs winning Super BowlTampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady during NFL football practice, Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021 in Tampa, Fla. The Buccaneers will face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55. (Kyle Zedaker/Tampa Bay Buccaneers via AP)TAMPA, Fla. – Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won’t be denied. The 43-year-old six-time Super Bowl champion may no longer be the best quarterback in the NFL, however, he’s shown in his first season with the Bucs that he’s still good enough to lead a team to the NFL title game. You want to make some moves that hopefully get your team into the Super Bowl.
From players to pedigree, Chiefs edge on Bucs in all aspects
Read full article: From players to pedigree, Chiefs edge on Bucs in all aspectsKansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid and Quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) look on during NFL football practice Wednesday February 2, 2021 in Kansas City, Mo. The Chiefs will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl 55. (Steve Sanders/Kansas City Chiefs via AP)KANSAS CITY, Mo. Based on offense alone, the Kansas City Chiefs are head and shoulders better than the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If we stay in that mindset, we give ourselves a chance to win any big game.”None is bigger than the Super Bowl.
Reid, Arians bring stellar offensive systems to Super Bowl
Read full article: Reid, Arians bring stellar offensive systems to Super BowlIn this still image from video provided by the NFL, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, left, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians speak during Super Bowl 55 Opening Night, Monday, Feb. 1, 2021. Reid and Arians have consistently run prolific offenses that have helped the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers reach the Super Bowl. But Reid and Arians reached title game because both coaches have also shown the ability to adapt. Reid has gradually used more shotgun and spread formations over the years, helping Patrick Mahomes develop into the game’s top QB. Tampa Bay ranked 17th with 1,874 yards after the catch.
Storylines galore as Brady, Mahomes command Super Bowl stage
Read full article: Storylines galore as Brady, Mahomes command Super Bowl stage(NFL via AP)Someone will make history Sunday in a Super Bowl so filled with storylines it would fill a season of TV programming. Yes, Tampa, Florida, where the Super Bowl is being played this year. Ad“There’s a lot that comes along with the Super Bowl,” says Rob Gronkowski, the three-time champion tight end who came out of retirement to reunite with Brady. Of course, with the week off between the conference title matches and the Super Bowl, each side should be well rested. “You don’t get these opportunities every year in the NFL to be in the Super Bowl and to be in these games,” Mahomes says, thought it sure seems as if Brady has a Super Bowl habit, and Mahomes is developing one.
Chiefs' success big reason why fans will be at Super Bowl
Read full article: Chiefs' success big reason why fans will be at Super Bowl(AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann, File)There will be about 25,000 fans inside Raymond James Stadium for the Super Bowl on Sunday. Even when COVID-19 numbers were spiking around the country, the Chiefs never experienced an outbreak traced back to their fans. AdThursday marked the final time talking to the media for the Bucs and Chiefs until after the Super Bowl. BRADY’S PORTUGUESETom Brady's six Super Bowl rings don't protect him from being trash talked in his own home. The fact that it will happen in the Super Bowl?
AB says he's grateful for 2nd chance provided by Buccaneers
Read full article: AB says he's grateful for 2nd chance provided by Buccaneers(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)TAMPA, Fla. – Antonio Brown says he’s grateful to be back in the NFL, let alone preparing to play in the Super Bowl. “I just think it was my only chance to be able to prove — not only to the doubters, but myself — I’m still a high-end football player, still love the game,” Brown said. Arians initially opposed the idea of adding Brown, saying during the offseason that the receiver wasn’t a good fit for the Bucs. He's the most accomplished wide receiver Brady has had to throw to since the Patriots had Hall of Famer Randy Moss, who also had a reputation of being difficult to play with, more than a decade ago. “He has a great love for the game, is a real perfectionist about how he plays, how he takes care of himself.
QB whisperers Christensen, Moore see different side to Brady
Read full article: QB whisperers Christensen, Moore see different side to BradyTom Moore worked with Manning, Terry Bradshaw and many others before the 82-year-old assistant got a chance to coach Brady. Christensen and Moore were on the opposite sideline against Brady during the Colts-Patriots rivalry. Both have a different view of the six-time Super Bowl champion after getting to know him during his first season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Joking aside, Brady appreciates the wisdom from Christensen and Moore. He loves throwing them and he’s an extremely elite, deep-ball thrower.”Christensen has one Super Bowl ring and Moore has three.
Resilient Pierre-Paul excited to be back in Super Bowl
Read full article: Resilient Pierre-Paul excited to be back in Super BowlThe Buccaneers will face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 55. He wants his young teammates to embrace the moment and understand that regardless of how talented they are, the road back to another Super Bowl will not be easy. Super Bowl is not promised for next year,” Pierre-Paul said. To this day he’s still happy and joyful, and happy I am in another Super Bowl,” Pierre-Paul said. It makes no difference to me,” said Remmers, a ninth-year veteran who has been with eight different organizations and will start his 10th career playoff game, including a second Super Bowl.
Reid's 4th down approach could help Chiefs in Super Bowl
Read full article: Reid's 4th down approach could help Chiefs in Super BowlIn this still image from video provided by the NFL, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid speaks during Opening Night for the NFL Super Bowl 55 football game Monday, Feb. 1, 2021. In a tight Super Bowl, that could make a big difference.”Reid’s decisions already made a difference this postseason with his most memorable call coming in the divisional round against Cleveland. You just don’t know what he’s going to do.”Arians did make a key decision earlier this postseason that helped the Bucs reach the Super Bowl. With 13 seconds left in the first half of the NFC title game, Arians went for it on fourth-and-4 from the Green Bay 45. “We didn’t come here to not take chances to win the game,” Arians said.
Bucs double up female coaches in Super Bowl with not 1 but 2
Read full article: Bucs double up female coaches in Super Bowl with not 1 but 2Maral Javadifar, assistant strength and conditioning coach, and Locust follow in Katie Sowers' footsteps with the Bucs the only NFL team with two female coaches this season. Javadifar, assistant strength and conditioning coach, and assistant defensive line coach Lori Locust follow in Sowers' footsteps with the Bucs the only NFL team with two female coaches this season. Down judge Sarah Thomas will be the first female to officiate a Super Bowl. The Chiefs have a pair of female assistant athletic trainers in Julie Frymyer and Tiffany Morton. Bucs defensive end Shaq Barrett loves how Locust is always giving him tips.
Super rematch: Hill burned Bucs repeatedly in 1st meeting
Read full article: Super rematch: Hill burned Bucs repeatedly in 1st meetingTampa Bay gets another shot at Hill and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021. It was the second and most impressive of three scores for Hill, who was the star of Kansas City’s 27-24 victory at Tampa Bay in Week 12. Tampa Bay gets another shot at Hill and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl next Sunday, the first rematch in the NFL finale in nearly a decade. Davis was burned repeatedly, including on consecutive TD passes from Patrick Mahomes to Hill (75 and 44 yards) in the first quarter. Down three with 4:10 to play, Tampa turned to its defense to get a stop and get Brady the ball back.
Brady, productive drafts fuel Tampa Bay's run to Super Bowl
Read full article: Brady, productive drafts fuel Tampa Bay's run to Super BowlTampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) runs with a elastic band around his legs during an NFL football workout Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. The Buccaneers play the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV on Feb. 7. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston but dared to dream of signing Brady if the six-time Super Bowl champion decided to leave New England as a free agent. Of course it was Tom Brady, not thinking he would become a free agent,” Arians added. Ad“Naturally, I think you envision every year in the offseason you want to make some moves that hopefully get your team into the Super Bowl.
$500 fine: Tampa’s mayor issues outdoor mask order for Super Bowl
Read full article: $500 fine: Tampa’s mayor issues outdoor mask order for Super BowlTAMPA, Fla. – Anyone visiting Tampa’s popular outdoor destinations for the Super Bowl will be required to wear a mask to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor signed an executive order Wednesday saying masks must be worn outside while downtown, in neighborhoods around Raymond James Stadium — where the Super Bowl will be held — and in other tourist hotspots. It will remain in place until Feb. 13 — nearly a week after the Super Bowl ends. “We are incredibly excited to host a fun and safe Super Bowl here in Tampa — but we need everyone to do their part. There will be official game events around the city, including The Super Bowl Experience, which features live music, food, beverages and football-themed activities.
Chiefs, Bucs ride (mostly) COVID-clear season to Super Bowl
Read full article: Chiefs, Bucs ride (mostly) COVID-clear season to Super Bowl– The Kansas City Chiefs had a pretty good idea what kind of COVID-19 protocols they would have to wade through in defense of their Super Bowl championship the moment they finally gathered for in-person training camp. And it was Burkholder who helped the Chiefs navigate the season with few positive tests and just one postponement — the fault of the other team — as they closed in on a Super Bowl repeat. Those were things we just didn't know, and it was a process to figure out how to do this.”AdUltimately, the Chiefs and Buccaneers are in the Super Bowl in part because they figured it out as well as anybody. It's easy to follow the example of Tom Brady, with six Super Bowl rings behind him and the Hall of Fame in front of him, when he demands the Buccaneers mask up. The same with Patrick Mahomes, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, when he tells the Chiefs to skip the family gatherings around the holidays.
Retirement age? Super Bowl coaches just getting started
Read full article: Retirement age? Super Bowl coaches just getting startedTheres no retirement age in the NFL, and thats a good thing for Super Bowl-bound Kansas City and Tampa Bay. (AP Photo/File)There’s no retirement age in the NFL, and that’s a good thing for Super Bowl-bound Kansas City and Tampa Bay. The Bucs signed Brady, now 43, to a two-year contract that created a small Super Bowl window. Now, the Bucs get to face Kansas City at home — the first team in NFL history to play a Super Bowl in its normal venue. New England’s Bill Belichick is the oldest coach to win a Super Bowl.
Washington's King 1st Black female assistant position coach
Read full article: Washington's King 1st Black female assistant position coach(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)Washington promoted Jennifer King to assistant running backs coach Tuesday, making her the first Black female assistant position coach in the NFL. She is the second woman in league history to be an assistant position coach after Tampa Bay’s assistant defensive line coach Lori Locust. King spent the 2020 season as a full-year coaching intern under Ron Rivera and worked with running backs coach Randy Jordan. “I am very pleased to have coach King back to assist me full time in the running backs room,” Jordan said. Tampa Bay had two: Locust and assistant strength and conditioning coach Maral Javadifar, and coach Bruce Arians called women in coaching “the wave of the future.”“This game, it’s a tremendous game,” Rivera said.
Old (Brady), young (Mahomes), different Super Bowl 55 awaits
Read full article: Old (Brady), young (Mahomes), different Super Bowl 55 awaits(AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)For Tom Brady, another trip to the Super Bowl — but this time, in a Tampa Bay uniform. “Whoever would've thought a home Super Bowl for us? It gave New England its third straight trip to the Super Bowl, and Brady's last of nine as a member of the Patriots. He's leading the Buccaneers to only their second Super Bowl; the Bucs won on their first trip, back in 2002. But nobody would mistake Johnson for Brady, who could join Peyton Manning as the only other quarterback to win a Super Bowl with two franchises.
JPP, Barrett pace stingy Buccaneers defense against Rodgers
Read full article: JPP, Barrett pace stingy Buccaneers defense against RodgersTampa Bay Buccaneers' Shaquil Barrett (58) celebrates with teammate Jason Pierre-Paul after sacking Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during the second half of the NFC championship NFL football game in Green Bay, Wis., Sunday, Jan. 24, 2021. To deliver on that hope, Brady needed some relentless play from Tampa Bay's defense. And Tampa Bay to its first since the 2002 season. The Packers came back, but the defense forced Green Bay to settle for a field goal with just over two minutes remaining and trailing by eight points. And he was confident the Brady-led offense would not give the Packers' offense another chance.
D-coordinators bring head coaching chops to NFL title games
Read full article: D-coordinators bring head coaching chops to NFL title gamesBut all are credited with providing a steady helping hand, a sturdy shoulder and a willing ear to their team’s current head coach. PETTINEPettine went 10-22 (.313) as head coach of the Cleveland Browns from 2014-15, before joining Matt LaFleur, who was named Packers head coach in 2018 after just two seasons as an offensive coordinator, a year each with the Rams and Titans. Arians brought along Bowles, whom he coached at Temple in the mid-1980s and who had been his defensive coordinator in Arizona from 2013-14. It began with Frazier saying he didn’t want McDermott to make the same mistakes he did as a first-time head coach. It’s a business with a lot of egos, a lot of people concerned with who gets the credit.”SPAGNUOLOSpagnuolo, 61, compiled an 11-41 record (.212) as head coach of the St. Louis Rams from 2009-11 and as interim head coach of the New York Giants in 2017, when he went 1-3.
NFC Matchups: Where else to start but Brady and Rodgers?
Read full article: NFC Matchups: Where else to start but Brady and Rodgers?But Gronk in particular has always been a big-play guy in big games for Brady, and Green Bay doesn't have linebackers who excel in coverage. Green Bay will do some blitzing, though not as much as Buccaneers defensive coordinator Todd Bowles figures to do. Unlike Brady, Rodgers can create outside the pocket, and he's especially dangerous when doing so. Veteran placekicker Mason Crosby is solid, making all 16 field goal attempts, but missed four PATs for Green Bay. Tampa Bay's Ryan Succop, now in his 12th pro season, made 28 of 31 field goal tries but missed five extra points.
All eyes on QBs as Packers host Bucs for NFC championship
Read full article: All eyes on QBs as Packers host Bucs for NFC championshipThe Packers defeated the Rams 32-18 to advance to the NFC championship game. When Rodgers’ Green Bay Packers (14-3) host Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers (13-5) in the NFC championship game Sunday, it will be just the fourth time they’ve squared off as starting quarterbacks, and first in the playoffs. “I’m excited about the opportunity to play against him one more time.”The Bucs trounced the Packers 38-10 in Tampa on Oct. 18. A win at Lambeau Field clinches their first Super Bowl berth since their 2002 championship season. “We play the Packers in the NFC championship game.
EXPLAINER: A look at the data behind NFL decision making
Read full article: EXPLAINER: A look at the data behind NFL decision making“You can make a very good decision and have a bad result and you can make a bad decision and have a good result,” said Frank Frigo, the co-founder of EdjSports, a data company that has created its own customizable model for decision making in the NFL. HOW FIGURE OUTThere are several models for decision making and they typically agree on most calls, although there are slight differences. Calls that increase win probability are good and those that decrease it are bad. That decision cost Cleveland 5 percentage points in EdjSports’ win probability. That decision cost the Titans 13.7 percentage points in win probability.
Bills among the NFL's 4 defenses peaking in the postseason
Read full article: Bills among the NFL's 4 defenses peaking in the postseasonBuffalo Bills' Micah Hyde (23) celebrates with teammates after an NFL divisional round football game against the Baltimore Ravens Saturday, Jan. 16, 2021, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – Leslie Frazier’s faith in his Bills defense never wavered even at the lowest point of Buffalo’s season. It was mid-November and the Bills were entering their bye week on the heels of a 32-30 defeat at Arizona. In the NFC, the Packers are allowing an average 306 yards offense over their past seven outings. Here comes Patrick Mahomes, should he clear the NFL’s concussion protocol, and the league’s top-ranked offense.
Brady, talented Buccaneers playmakers developing chemistry
Read full article: Brady, talented Buccaneers playmakers developing chemistryTampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) celebrates his touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL divisional round playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, in New Orleans. Don't forget Antonio Brown, who joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at midseason and has contributed to the team’s run to Sunday’s NFC championship game at Green Bay. Then there’s Scotty Miller and Tyler Johnson, a couple of late-round draft picks roughly half the age of the 43-year-old quarterback. The more that I’ve been around Mike, Chris, Antonio, Scooter (Miller), Tyler, Mick (Jaydon Mickens) — the better it gets,” Brady said. Tyler makes a great catch,” Arians added.
Bucs, Browns, Bills out to follow footsteps of champ Chiefs
Read full article: Bucs, Browns, Bills out to follow footsteps of champ ChiefsAside from winning the final Super Bowl before the merger in 1970, the Kansas City Chiefs’ biggest claim to fame for over half a century was team founder Lamar Hunt coining the phrase Super Bowl. Three long-downtrodden teams — the Browns, Bills and Buccaneers — have made it to the divisional round this weekend and are certain they have as good a chance as the Chiefs, Packers, Saints, Ravens or Rams of winning Super Bowl 55. That’s heady stuff for a franchise that has never made it to the Super Bowl. I think Bills fans, including myself, didn’t think he was going to be this good this good this early. And he has proved a lot of people wrong.”No, there’s no comparing this Bills team to those of his playing days, Thomas said.
Tom Brady excited, ready to lead Buccaneers into playoffs
Read full article: Tom Brady excited, ready to lead Buccaneers into playoffsTampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass during an NFL football practice Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)TAMPA, Fla. – New team, same ole Tom Brady. Brady led New England to the Super Bowl nine times in 20 seasons, appearing in 41 playoff games and winning 30 — both records. “When he first signed I said, ‘OK, we’ll be a 40 (touchdown) and 10 (interception) team,’” Arians said. “It’s a never-ending thing with him, the perfectionist, to get everything right in practice,” Arians added.
Mr. Smith goes to Washington, takes another team to playoffs
Read full article: Mr. Smith goes to Washington, takes another team to playoffsWashington Football Team's Alex Smith plays during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, in Philadelphia. Alex Smith is the biggest reason Washington became the first team in the Super Bowl era to start 2-7 and make the playoffs. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton, File)If the Alex Smith story becomes a movie, Alex Smith doesn't want to see it. “When Alex Smith plays quarterback, they’re a heck of a football team,” Tampa Bay coach Bruce Arians said. "They’re an extremely well-coached team, a ton of talent on that defensive front, but Alex Smith is really the key to everything.”How is that possible?
Buccaneers vs. Falcons: How to watch, stream, listen
Read full article: Buccaneers vs. Falcons: How to watch, stream, listenTampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)TAMPA, Fla. – Making the playoffs for the first time in 13 years is just a start for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. “There’s going to be a bunch of teams that make it this year, and there’s only going to be one team that ends up happy,” Brady said. The Bucs gained 410 yards in the first half against the Lions compared to 60 before halftime against the Falcons the previous week. STOCK DOWNDespite the shortcomings on special teams against Detroit, Arians feels good about where the team’s overall performance as it heads toward the playoffs.
No preseason, no problem: NFL rookies shine in strange year
Read full article: No preseason, no problem: NFL rookies shine in strange yearYoung and Jefferson made the Pro Bowl, and surely more rookies would have joined them as alternates at the league’s now-canceled all-star game. “It’s crazy unusual for a rookie, I think, to have the type of leadership that Chase has, genuine leadership,” Washington quarterback Alex Smith said. “I think a lot of young guys, especially high picks, I think you feel pressure to do it some way or somehow. “Talk about a rookie coming in, starting every game and just being focused,” Browns Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio said of Wills. “We’re growing and we’re starting to get a hang of the game,” said Dolphins right tackle Robert Hunt, a second-round pick and one of six Miami rookies starting on offense.
Buccaneers vs Falcons: How to watch, stream, listen
Read full article: Buccaneers vs Falcons: How to watch, stream, listenIt’s just a matter of getting in.”The Bucs (8-5) took a step toward ending the league’s second-longest postseason drought with Sunday’s 26-14 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. The Bucs have missed the playoffs 12 consecutive seasons and haven’t won a postseason game since their Super Bowl run 18 years ago. “If we want to get to the playoffs, we’ve got to win these games. Dalvin Cook rushed for 102 yards and Minnesota gained 162 overall on the ground. The third-year pro gained 80 on 18 carries against Minnesota to move closer to his first 1,000-yard season.
Buccaneers vs. Vikings: How to watch, stream, listen
Read full article: Buccaneers vs. Vikings: How to watch, stream, listenThe surging Vikings (6-6) are nipping at their heels in a crowded NFC race. That’s what December is all about.”If the playoffs started this week, the Bucs would hold the sixth seed in the NFC. The Vikings are in the seventh — and final — spot, with games against remaining against Chicago, New Orleans and Detroit after Sunday. The Vikings have been breaking in an especially young group of cornerbacks on the fly, with measured improvement after some rough performances earlier. They can’t worry too much about the aura of the great players that they have,” Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said.
Brady, Buccaneers bounce back with 46-23 win over Panthers
Read full article: Brady, Buccaneers bounce back with 46-23 win over PanthersBrady threw for 341 yards and three touchdowns, Ronald Jones set a franchise-record with a 98-yard touchdown run, and the Buccaneers bounced back from a dreadful defeat with a resounding 46-23 win over the Carolina Panthers. Panthers coach Matt Rhule described Brady’s play as “elite” and “fantastic.”The Bucs ran the ball just five times last week. Tampa Bay racked up 544 yards on offense and outgained the Panthers 322-35 in the second half and outscored them 29-6. Chris Godwin had 92 yards receiving for the Buccaneers (7-3), who swept the season series and handed the Panthers (3-7) their fifth straight loss. Rhule said the Panthers were unaware the ball had hit the ground or else he would have just had Bridgewater spike the ball.
Brown practices, excited for opportunity with Buccaneers
Read full article: Brown practices, excited for opportunity with Buccaneers(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File)TAMPA, Fla. – Antonio Brown says he’s grateful to be back in the NFL and reunited with Tom Brady. He brings out the best in people around him,” Brown, wearing a Brady TB12 hat during a video conference call, added. The receiver said those relationships will help him make the most of his opportunity with the Bucs. He also thanked Brady for steering him to motivational speaker and life coach Tony Robbins, who worked with Brown on anger issues. “I had good trainers, good people around me in my corner who kept me encouraged, that kept me motivated,” the receiver said.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers activate Antonio Brown from reserve/suspended list
Read full article: Tampa Bay Buccaneers activate Antonio Brown from reserve/suspended listTAMPA, Fla. – Antonio Brown has been activated from the reserve/suspended list and is set to practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the first time on Wednesday. We've activated WR Antonio Brown from the reserve/suspended list.https://t.co/ygK7GepXee — Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) November 3, 2020Coach Bruce Arians said Tuesday he’s not sure how much Brown will play this week, but that he’ll definitely have a role in the game plan. If we’re successful with the package that we put him in, we’ll probably run it more,” Arians said. “I wouldn’t anticipate 60 plays, for sure, but we’ll just see how it goes.”To make room on the roster for Brown, the Bucs waived wide receiver Cyril Grayson. In other moves, offensive lineman John Molchon was signed to the practice squad and running back Kenjon Barner was activated from the reserve/suspended list to the practice squad.
On Football: Brady flourishing, Belichick floundering
Read full article: On Football: Brady flourishing, Belichick flounderingTampa is 5-2 and Brady is a huge reason for that mark — for his arm, for his leadership, for his guile. Expecting Brady to offer much insight into his performances, particularly in the midst of a season, is like, well, expecting the same from Belichick. We’re going to need everybody, and we’re going to need everybody’s best. The Patriots’ 27-point loss to San Francisco was their largest at home under Belichick, according to Elias Sports Bureau. I don’t think there’s anything you could say that we don’t need work on,” Belichick said.
AP source: Antonio Brown agrees to 1-year deal with Bucs
Read full article: AP source: Antonio Brown agrees to 1-year deal with BucsTAMPA, Fla. – Suspended receiver Antonio Brown has agreed to return to the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year deal, according to a person with knowledge of the move. The addition of the volatile seven-time Pro Bowl selection bolsters an already formidable arsenal of playmakers for Tom Brady. Tight end Rob Gronkowski and running backs Leonard Fournette and LeSean McCoy have also joined Brady in Tampa Bay, which hasn’t made the playoffs since 2007. Brown is reuniting with the 43-year-old quarterback after playing one game with Brady during a brief stint with the Patriots in September 2019. In 131 regular-season games — all but one with Pittsburgh — Brown has 841 career receptions for 11,263 yards and 75 touchdowns.
AP source: Raiders latest COVID tests all negative
Read full article: AP source: Raiders latest COVID tests all negativeThe Las Vegas Raiders’ latest batch of COVID-19 tests all came back negative and their game scheduled for Sunday against Tampa Bay is on for now. “We’ll be ready to go.”The NFL moved the Raiders game against the Buccaneers from prime time to an afternoon slot on Sunday just in case the game couldn’t be played. Those contacts were later deemed “high risk” and those players were placed on the COVID-19 list on Thursday. We’ll be ready to go.”Raiders cornerback Damon Arnette was moved from injured reserve to the COVID-19 list on Monday following a positive test. Defensive tackle Maurice Hurst was put on the COVID-19 list two weeks ago before being activated on Monday.
Laila Ali salutes social activism of athletes with awards
Read full article: Laila Ali salutes social activism of athletes with awardsNEW YORK – Laila Ali is applauding athletes who speak out about social issues. Ali was to host the virtual Women’s Sports Foundation awards on Wednesday night, recognizing athletes and leaders working toward social justice and racial equality. “I think all people should take a stand,” Ali told The Associated Press. What are your thoughts on athletes taking a stand on social justice issues? I think my dad would definitely have something positive to say about the athletes that are taking a stand.
The Latest: Ali to host Women's Sports Foundation awards
Read full article: The Latest: Ali to host Women's Sports Foundation awardsFILE - In this July 10, 2019, file photo, Laila Ali arrives at the ESPY Awards in Los Angeles. Ali will host the Womens Sports Foundation awards show featuring Candace Parker, Tom Brady and Carli Lloyd. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)NEW YORK – Laila Ali will host the Women’s Sports Foundation awards show featuring Candace Parker, Tom Brady and Carli Lloyd. In 1974, King created the Women’s Sports Foundation, which provides sports programming and grants for young athletes. The Czech team says 16 others have to be re-tested after the results of their tests were inconclusive.
Brady, Buccaneers look to keep rolling when they meet Bears
Read full article: Brady, Buccaneers look to keep rolling when they meet Bears“To join a team and to be embraced the way that I’ve been embraced — it’s been amazing for me,” Brady said. Brady threw for 369 yards and five touchdowns and helped Tampa Bay overcome a 17-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Chargers 38-31 last week. Indianapolis won 11 games that season, with Arians going 9-3 as interim coach while Pagano was battling leukemia. Getting it back in gear won't be easy this week, considering Tampa Bay ranks second against the run. “That happened to be a game there, where we were just struggling to get it going," coach Matt Nagy said.
Brady, Fournette lead Bucs over Panthers 31-17
Read full article: Brady, Fournette lead Bucs over Panthers 31-17I think we’re still a long way from where we need to be," Brady said. Brady completed 23 of 35 passes, and Evans finished with seven receptions for 104 yards. “Nine penalties and four giveaways, but it’s a one-score game in the fourth quarter," Panthers coach Matt Rhule said. “I thought he competed and there will be days where you can’t get things flowing,” the Panthers coach added. In a twist, the Panthers also made a concerted effort to get wide receiver Curtis Samuel involved in the running game.