A few reasons to keep watching -- for now

By GARY SHELTON and JOHN ROMANO, Times Columnists
Published September 23, 2007

GS: Get me rewrite! Change all the "awfuls" to "awesome." Change the "reeling" to "rocking." Have you ever seen a game that challenges perception more than the Bucs' win over the Saints?

JR: I can't say for sure. They wouldn't let me bring research material on the bandwagon.

GS: That bandwagon rolled over my foot. That game was like Adam Sandler's success - I never saw it coming. I'd say it was their most complete victory over a decent opponent since the win at Carolina late in the 2005 season.

JR: The most encouraging part of the victory is that it wasn't a fluke. The defense was monstrous, and the offense had spark. I don't know if that translates into a winning record this season, but it gives you a reason to keep watching.

GS: Even better, it gives you a reason to think it might happen again. Jeff Garcia was terrific. Joey Galloway was unstoppable. And the defense made the Saints look like Jim Haslett had come back and brought Aaron Brooks with him. I say this week's game plan should be one word: Ditto.

JR: Including the part about Derrick Brooks coming off the field?

GS: I'm not sure I would let Brooks come off the field even at halftime, but if Derrick is willing to give it a try, who am I to say no? Yeah, he's 34, but doesn't it make sense to play Brooks and Cato June together in the nickel? Especially when you consider how well Brooks has played against the Rams over the years.

JR: Okay, let's play a game. How many points do the Bucs score against the Rams if Davin Joseph gets hurt in the first quarter?

GS: I'm going to say 10.

JR: How about Cadillac?

GS:I'm going to say seven.

JR: Jeff Garcia?

GS: I'm going to say "ouch." Also, none. It didn't take Garcia long to take over this town, did it?

JR: I noticed you writing his name inside little Cupid hearts.

GS: What can I tell you? He reminds me of the older brother I never had. Okay, giddy boy. Here are the questions: Does this last? What do the Bucs have to do to make sure this wasn't a one-hit wonder?

JR: Here are the answers: No, and cheat.

GS: Why not U-turn? Aren't you the guy who just said it wasn't a fluke?

JR: You're like my kids. You tune me out after the first 5-6 words. I also said I didn't know if it would translate into a winning season. I still think this team is awfully thin. Now go make your bed.

GS: As bad fathers go, you're darned near a Federline. No wonder your kids put Elmer's glue on your toothbrush. Tell me this: Do you see the Bucs beating the Rams this week?

JR: Sure. But I also see pink elephants after my fourth margarita. You?

GS: Risking my reputation as Capt. Negative, I say the Bucs win. The Rams are a mess. Last week, when running back Steven Jackson was screaming at coach Scott Linehan, the entire city wanted to join in. Considering the Rams' offensive line, this could even be the day the Bucs' pass rush shows up.

JR: Capt. Negative? Who promoted you?

[Last modified September 22, 2007, 18:02:02]