By Tom Krasniqi

Big plays were made in all three phases of the game.  Offense, defense and special teams took their turns in dazzling the crowd of more than 30,000 at Raymond James Stadium during the Buccaneers’ annual night practice on Saturday night.  The huge crowd was treated to a number of drills that were detailed beforehand by assistant coaches on the big screen.  It was the largest free public event in team history.  Head coach Greg Schiano wanted to put an emphasis on situational football and the fundamentals.  Fans who weren’t been able to get out to a training camp practice at One Buc Place caught a glimpse of what Camp Schiano is all about—up-tempo, intense and attention to detail. 

After the practice began, dark clouds started to move in and thunder could be heard in the distance.  As a precaution, the team was taken off the field for a weather delay.  After the storm came and went, the Bucs were back on the field doing their thing.  Schiano says he used the night practice as a way of getting his feet wet for game-day communications with the coaches.  Coaches were upstairs in the booth to simulate game-day conditions.

The day began with Fan Fest as players and coaches were signing autographs and greeting fans at the stadium concourses.  The night ended with a spectacular fireworks display while players were making their rounds around the stadium to thank fans for their support.  And yes, more autographs were given out.  Schiano was pleased overall with the practice.  “I think it was pretty good.  I think we got out of it with no major injuries, that was one of my concerns”, says Schiano.

As you might imagine, the rookies were wide eyed after their first experience at Ray Jay.  Running back Michael Smith said he had “goose bumps and butterflies” when he walked into his home stadium for the first time to play some football.  Running back Doug Martin was overwhelmed by the huge crowd.  “It was definitely a great experience, this atmosphere…Bucs fans being here to watch the practice was awesome”.   

News & Notes:

• The team is working in a number of players in the kick return game, including rookie Michael Smith and Preston Parker.  Smith’s 4.3 speed was on display and his speed is as good as advertised.
• Josh Freeman looked sharp in throwing the football.  He executed a beautiful play fake in hitting Mike Williams in the back of the end zone for a TD.  Williams had an outstanding practice.  He showed some nice separation on a quick slant as he got inside of Aqib Talib.
• Ronde Barber and Mark Barron were limited during 11-on-11 drills.  Ahmad Black and Larry Asante were running with the 1^st team defense.  Black recorded an INT off a deflected pass thrown by Dan Orlovsky.
• DE George Johnson also had a good night.  He blew around RT Jeremy Trueblood on a pass rush drill.  Then, he got some nice pressure on Freeman during 11-on-11 action.
• G Carl Nicks really had a terrific practice.  He mauled defenders in the run game and proved to be really difficult in pass protection.  It’s a $20 cab ride to get around the massive guard.
• The team enjoys the day off on Sunday.  Monday’s practice is open to the public.  It runs from 8:45am-11:30am.  Gates open at 7:30am.  For the best Bucs coverage, keep it locked on 620 WDAE.