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A Peek Behind the numbers

Posted Mar 16, 2010 by Ira Kaufman

Updated Mar 16, 2010 at 10:07 AM

By IRA KAUFMAN
TAMPA—The only numbers that counted for the Bucs in 2009 were 3-13, but there’s more to the statistical story.

A look behind the stats reveals just much Tampa Bay’s defense improved, particularly against the pass, once head coach Raheem Morris assumed control after 10 games.

In those final six weeks, the Bucs yielded only six touchdown passes and an average of 204 passing yards per game. Opponents converted only 35.5 percent of their third-down opportunities, compared to 42.3 percent during the first 10 games.

Most significantly, Tampa Bay allowed only one completion of more than 32 yards in the final six games. In the first 10 games, opponents posted 13 gains of 35 yards or more through the air.

Although the defense surged in the final six games, Tampa Bay’s offense continued to struggle, especially when the Bucs weren’t aided by a short field.

For the season, the Bucs scored only 15 touchdowns in 170 possessions when they had to drive at least 50 yards. Opponents had a far easier time cashing in on long drives, scoring 38 touchdowns in 169 possessions when starting on their half of the field.