Bucs/NFL

Alstott gets job done when needed

By RICK STROUD
Published November 22, 2006

TAMPA - Mike Alstott says short-yardage situations were responsible for him getting more involved in the offense last week, not a concentrated effort in the game plan.

Alstott rushed six times for 28 yards in the Bucs' 20-17 win over the Redskins on Sunday, including a 16-yard run in which he leveled cornerback Shawn Springs, electrifying the crowd and his teammates.

That performance topped the 20 rushing yards Alstott had in nine previous games combined, including four in which he failed to get a carry.

"First of all, it was short yardage," Alstott said. "I got back into the routine of being the short-yardage back. And when you're a running back, they feed you the ball when you're hot and making positive plays. I think that was the situation."

Alstott said he was aware of how his run over Springs ignited the offense.

"I go out there and just try to make plays," Alstott said. "That's what I've done my whole career. And make them in a fashion running over people. That's the only way I've done it and I'm not going to shy away from it."

COVER TWO: The Bucs may have a rough time trying to cover Cowboys receivers Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn.

Cornerback Juran Bolden did not practice Tuesday because of a bruised tibia and is questionable for Thursday's game. If Bolden can't go, the Bucs will turn to Torrie Cox and Phillip Buchanon.

Gruden said he has been impressed with Buchanon, who was released by the Texans earlier this season.

"He's played good when he's played," Gruden said. "He's tackled, he's covered and he's played our defense technically. He's taken advantage of the opportunities just like we thought he would. If need be, he'll be playing."

BEST WISHES: Cowboys coach Bill Parcells remembers Chris Simms when he was a toddler running around the Giants locker room with his father, Super Bowl quarterback Phil Simms. So Parcells was sure to send his wishes for a speedy recovery to Simms from his splenectomy.

"I talked to Phil right away and I saw Phil last week. You know, when you remember him as a 2-year-old kid running around your locker room and having watched him grow and remembering him as a high school player and I know his mom and his brothers and sister; you know, it hits home," Parcells said. "So I made sure his family paid my respects to him. I'm glad he's doing well.

"He's a great kid and I hope he bounces back."

QUOTABLE: Parcells, on the possibility of him ever wearing a suit on the sideline like 49ers coach Mike Nolan and the Jaguars' Jack Del Rio.

"Well, it would have to be about a 3X to get me in it. So I don't know. They used to wear them. I think I'll stay in my other stuff."

Rick Stroud can be reached at stroud@sptimes.com.

[Last modified November 22, 2006, 01:55:33]