There was a playoff atmosphere at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa today. The Bucaneers and the Carolina Panthers were both 0-2 as the day began, and both knew with a loss it would be a long uphill battle to make the playoffs. Only 5 teams have made the playoffs after an 0-3 start since the 12 team current playoff structure began. None of those teams made the Super Bowl.
With all of that on the line today, it took big time performances by Jake Delhomme, Keyshawn Johnson and kicker John Kasay to help the Panthers to their first win of the season. The loss delivered all but a knock out punch to the Bucs. The Bucs have made the playoffs before after an 0-3 start in the strike shortened '82 season, but they will have to really play
skrong. They have a brutal schedule remaining with 9 of the 13 games facing playoff teams from '05.
Keyshawn Johnson had a big game against his former team hauling in 7 catches for 97 yards 1 TD and rushing for 1 touchdown. Johnson helped lead the Bucs to a Super Bowl win in 2002, but never had a warm fuzzy relationship with Coach John Gruden. The spat between the two eventually led to a trade to the Cowboys. Steve Smith also had 7 catches for 112 yards in his first game back from two hamstring injuries. You could tell that the hammies must not be fully healed, because he did not run any "Go" routes straight down the field which he is known for. But having him back was a big plus for the Panthers.
Delhomme finished the game 22 of 36 for 272 yards, 1 touchdown and 0 interceptions. But it was the gutsy quarterback draw on 4th down late in the 4th quarter that led to Kasay's game winning kick with 2 seconds remaining.
John Kasay was stellar today with four long field goals. His left foot was a machine today. He was 4-4 with kicks of 51, 50, 49 and the 46 yard game winner. For the 2006 season Kasay is 8-8.
