Keep focus on Gruden

We were reminded that Tony Dungy wrote the beginning chapter of the sports fairy tale: the Buccaneers going to the Super Bowl. And I agree with that. Tony was an excellent coach and gentleman.

But using that same logic, Jon Gruden wrote the beginning chapters of Oakland going to the Super Bowl. He also took his new team to the Super Bowl in his first year as coach. Gruden's achievements need to be recognized.

Tony, we appreciate what you did for our team. But Jon, you are the man of the hour.
-- Victor Wood, Indian Rocks Beach

True orange Buc fans all feel the same way. After years and years of futility of being the NFL's punch line, we never thought we'd live to see the spotlight shine on the Buccaneers.

I'm a big fan of Dungy. He made this team a winner. I also supported his firing, however, and the hiring of Jon Gruden. Dungy built a great defensive foundation, but his low-key ways just didn't work in the playoffs. Like every Buc fan, I'm a big Gruden fan. In one year, Gruden has made major strides to improve the offense. It's still far from being a great offense, but despite an old-fashioned pocket quarterback and a questionable line, they did the job Sunday and paved the way for a trip to the Super Bowl. Somebody pinch me. I still can't believe it. The shirt I'm wearing reads NFC champions, so it must be true.
-- Tom Dowling, Kissimmee

The last thing in the world I need is a poster of Warren Sapp. Save the newsprint. Save the trees.
-- Bill Clark, Homosassa