Bucs/NFL

Bucshotz

By TIMES STAFF
Published December 3, 2006

Your turn

In regards to the rumor that Gruden will take over for Bill Parcells next season: Why would anyone give away a Grade-A tuna for a stinky sardine?

Chris Slemkewicz, Tarpon Springs

Dear Jon Gruden: I realize an "offensive genius" like you needs to keep his big brain warm, but can't you at least take your hat off for the national anthem? Yes, the cameras caught you being a "turkey" on national television. Shame on you!

Julie Latimer, St. Petersburg

Is Jon Gruden stupid or what? You mean to tell me he can't see the benefits of the shotgun offense and why just about every team in the NFL uses it? Would it not give Bruce Gradkowski an extra second or two to look over the field? Would it not give him more time to get set and make some of those long throws downfield?

James Carra, Port Richey

Other voices

When the Steelers selected quarterback Omar Jacobs of Bowling Green in the fifth round of the NFL draft in April, many Steelers fans were puzzled by the selection. But for dozens of people from the Gradkowski clan who were in the family's residence in Dormont, the news was even harder to comprehend.

Bruce Gradkowski, who played quarterback at Seton-LaSalle High School and the University of Toledo, had yearned to play for the Steelers, the team he grew up rooting for.

The sting of being passed over by the hometown team was one thing. But being passed over for a quarterback he had twice beaten was another, especially after Gradkowski's agent, Ralph Cindrich, informed him that the Steelers might be taking him in the fifth round.

Ray Fittipaldi, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The picks

At one point this looked like it might be a really good game. It isn't. Both teams have been major disappointments. But playing at home, the Steelers show some pride and win easily. Steelers 30-10.

Pete Prisco, CBS Sportsline.com

Steelers 13-10

Peter King, Sports Illustrated

No way, Gruden should not be fired: 377 votes (61 percent).

Yes, no matter what: 171 votes (28 percent).

It depends on the rest of the season: 70 votes (11 percent).

[Last modified December 3, 2006, 06:00:34]