By Tom Krasniqi

The 1-0 Buccaneers are making their final preparations today for Sunday’s road game against the 0-1 Giants at the Meadowlands.  On the injury front, right tackle Jeremy Trueblood (ankle) was limited again in practice today and was seen riding the bike.  He’s listed as questionable.  Head coach Greg Schiano says he’s not sure if Trueblood will play.  If he can’t go, Demar Dotson would get the start at RT.  Not a comforting thought, and I’m sure the likes of Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora are salivating right now.  “I’m more prepared than I ever was,” says Dotson.  “I’m ready to get out there and compete”.

Guard Carl Nicks did practice fully today with the first team and should be good to go.  He’s listed as probable.  CB Anthony Gaitor (hamstring) and CB E.J. Biggers (foot) are doubtful.  RB LeGarrette Blount is probable with the neck stinger and should play.   

News & Notes:

  • Schiano is confident that WR Arrelious Benn can play and make an impact Sunday.  “He’s gonna play in the pass game and come in on 2 WR sets.  He’s a good special teams player…I hope there’s a lot of ways you’re going to see him on the field”.  Benn is probable and should see his first action on the season against the Giants.
  • The Giants were said to be very interested in RB Doug Martin leading up to draft day.  Martin says the Giants did call him a few times but did not make a pre-draft visit.  The Bucs traded in front of the Giants to take Martin.  The Giants took David Wilson instead, who fumbled in Week 1 and didn’t see the field after that. 
  • On the Giants injury front, WR Hakeem Nicks (foot) did not practice on Friday and is listed as questionable.  Giants head coach Tom Coughlin believes Nicks will be able to play.  LB Keith Rivers (hamstring) is doubtful so Michael Boley will start in his place.  CB Prince Amukamara(ankle) is questionable and was limited in practice Friday.  CB Michael Coe (hamstring), C David Baas(hip) and DT Marvin Austin (back) are all probable.
  • Catch the Bucs battle the Giants Sunday on 620 WDAE, your home of the Bucs.  Our pre-game coverage gets underway at 9am.