Quotebook

By KEITH NIEBUHR, Times Staff Writer
Published December 31, 2007

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From Bucs coach Jon Gruden

On the loss: "Obviously, we are disappointed in defeat. But there were some bright spots in my opinion. ... This was a big game for a lot of guys who got a chance to really get their first time on the field as Buccaneers."

On next week's playoff opener: "I am very eager, obviously, to get going here in the playoffs."

On getting healthy for the playoffs: "We have overcome so many injuries, it's a great compliment to this year's football team. Fortunately, we got some guys some rest. To be honest with you, they needed it. We'll see where we are next week against the New York Giants."

On fan support: "For all the Bucs fans ... that's who I'm talking to here at this time ... we need you here this week. The guys are going to play their butts off. "

From Panthers coach John Fox

On quarterback Matt Moore's performance: "Matt, you know, has been singing the same song for some time now. That's a good defense he played against today and I thought he made some good decisions. ... He's got skills, there's no doubt."

On finishing up a disappointing 7-9 season: "This team's been through a lot. They've definitely hung in there. We've played some pretty good teams here the last month, and our guys have stood up and played well."

On the next step for the team: "We'll meet back up (Monday) morning. We'll have our exit physicals. The most important thing is that these guys get away from football for some time now. Heal, relax, and get rejuvenated mentally. It won't be long now before we'll be back into offseason conditioning."

On the possible next step for him: "Well, yesterday I was the UCLA head coach. Today, I heard I was the Miami head coach. Right now I can tell you I'm the Carolina head coach. Other than some of the speculation by (the media), I've never thought anything different."