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The Tampa Tribune, published 16 September 2002
Quarterbacks - A
Brad Johnson's execution and decision-making were near perfect - again. He completed 24 of 31 passes for 211 yards and didn't have a turnover. He continues to execute the offense efficiently.
Running Backs - C
Michael Pittman showed flashes of brilliance before leaving the game with cramps in the third quarter. Mike Alstott also had his moments. Overall, this unit still is not moving the ball on the ground the way it needs to.
Receivers - B
The Florida Keys - Keyshawn Johnson and Keenan McCardell - combined for seven catches and drew several critical penalties. Joe Jurevicius chipped in with a couple of key catches on a day when dropped passes were eliminated.
Offensive Line - B
This unit took a big step forward Sunday. The addition of Cosey Coleman and the return to the lineup of RT Kenyatta Walker allowed the line to provide solid pass protection and decent running room. Penalties were at a minimum.
Defensive Line - A
This unit got three sacks, including one each from reserves Ellis Wyms and Corey Smith. It consistently pressured Ravens QB Chris Redman into quick throws and did an outstanding job of bottling up RB Jamal Lewis (2.5 yards per carry).
Linebackers - A
This unit played up to its lofty standards again. Al Singleton led the team with 10 tackles, while Derrick Brooks and Shelton Quarles combined for 10 more. Brooks' 97- yard TD return after intercepting a Chris Redman pass was the defensive highlight.
Secondary - A
Among Ronde Barber's incredible six pass defenses were two interceptions. Brian Kelly was solid, for the most part. Aided by the pass rush, the deep secondary was seldom tested and was allowed to help in run defense.
Special Teams - A-
Karl Williams' punt return for a TD was the biggest play but not the only one. Chartric Darby blocked a field goal try and Martin Gramatica was good on all three of his field goal attempts. Gramatica's kickoffs were a little short at times but the defensive effort kept that from being a problem.
Coaching - A
Jon Gruden played it rather conservatively on offense, refusing to take some shots in the end zone when he had a chance. With the way the defense was playing, it's hard to blame him. Gruden's most important call may have been the Knute Rockne-like speech he delivered Saturday night. He had this team ready to go from the start and it never let up.
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