To Garcia, early tests for offense will prove beneficial

By RICK STROUD, Times Staff Writer
Published August 27, 2007

ADVERTISEMENT [AP photo] Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Michael Pittman and Alex Smith block Miami Dolphins' Akbar Gbaja-Biamila as quarterback Jeff Garcia looks for a receiver during the first half of an NFL football preseason in Miami.

As preseason tests go, the Bucs offense couldn't ask for a better exam.

Tampa Bay has played three of the top sixdefenses from 2006 - the Patriots sixth, Jaguars (second) and Dolphins (fourth).

Quarterback Jeff Garcia thinks it will only make the Bucs better.

"They're great challenges for us," he said. "We have to prepare for those types of things. We need to be a better offense than we've been, especially in the past, and we need to continue to build upon (that). But going against quality defenses week in and week out can only help."

The Bucs conclude the preseason Thursday against the Texans at Raymond James Stadium. Garcia isn't certain how much he'll play, but he made it clear he would prefer a brief appearance.

"Eventually, preseason gets a little old, and you're risking injury stepping out on the field, and you want it to count if you're going to be risking something," the Bucs starter said. "That's why I think I'm ready for the regular season."

WHO'S NO. 2? Joey Galloway is the primary receiver, the undisputed No. 1.

But, coach Jon Gruden said, no player has stood out enough to win the other starting job. Maurice Stovall jumped out to the lead in training camp but faded in games. David Boston moved ahead of Stovall on the depth chart before being charged with DUI on Thursday. Ike Hilliard has been steady. Michael Clayton has been stealthy.

Heading into the final preseason game, Gruden still is waiting to name the winner.

"I don't know if stepping up is a good word," Gruden said. "I don't know if we have a clear-cut answer right now, but we do have good football players. If it's done by committee, as long as it gets done, I'll be happy."

THE GREAT GRADKOWSKI: Bruce Gradkowski is proof there is nothing like experience. The second-year quarterback, who started 11 games as a rookie, is beginning to make it count. In the past two games, he is 17-of-27 for 217 yards with three touchdowns with no interceptions.

"I just feel like I'm out there playing and having fun. That's when I play my best game," he said. "I feel confident out there. It'll all pan out. Jeff is the guy right now, anyway. We just have to go with that. I'm just trying to be ready in case my (name) does get called."

Stephen F. Holder contributed to this report. Rick Stroud can be reached at stroud@sptimes.com.

[Last modified August 26, 2007, 22:29:47]