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The Tampa Tribune, published 9 September 2003
Quarterback (B)
Brad Johnson was the bull once again. Johnson threw two TD passes in the second half and consistently found the hot receiver, including DT Warren Sapp. Despite pressure at times, Johnson efficiently guided the offense.
Running Backs (B- )
Ground game ran on empty at times. The running back by committee of Michael Pittman, Thomas Jones and Mike Alstott never fully took off, but they did combine for 88 yards and helped run out the clock in the fourth.
Receivers (A)
Hot hands led to big plays. When Keyshawn Johnson wasn't making first down receptions, Joe Jurevicius was making circus TD catches. Keyshawn and Jurevicius were the stars, but others played supporting roles.
Offensive Line (C)
Still a work in progress. The new starting lineup needs time to jell. Though Brad Johnson was never sacked, he was pressured often. And the running game never really found the room to move. Penalties hurt most.
Defensive Line (A)
Front four formed dominating barrier. DEs Simeon Rice and Greg Spires had Donovan McNabb scrambling all night. The DT tandem of Warren Sapp and Anthony McFarland made it difficult for the Eagles to run.
Linebackers (A)
Youngest unit on the defense plays strong. Ryan Nece and Nate Webster made their starting debuts and more than held their own. Webster led the defense with seven tackles. As usual, Derrick Brooks provided the knockout blows.
Secondary (B+)
Second to none. Coverage helped keep the Eagles out of the end zone and preserved the first shutout in Philadelphia in 80 games. John Lynch and Ronde Barber contributed to the defense's three sacks.
Special Teams (B)
An especially strong kicking game. Tom Tupa consistently gave the Eagles poor field position, averaging 45 yards per punt. Martin Gramatica was perfect with a field goal and two PATs, but return game must improve.
Coaching (A)
Gruden outshines his Philly counterpart. Throwing to Sapp? Jon Gruden pulled out all the stops. Gruden outcoached Philadelphia's Andy Reid, who had been 10-0 in prime-time contests.
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