The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went from the laughing stock of the league to division champions in 1979; could we see a similar turn of events this year?
NFL Spin Zone’s Randy Gurzi wrote an article, published today, identifying one season in each franchise’s history that came “out of nowhere.” For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gurzi chose the 1979 season due to its significance to the franchise’s growth.
"“In 1979, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were able to make the playoffs for the first time in their existence after winning the NFC Central with a record of 10-6. Not only was it their first division title and postseason appearance, but it was also their first ever winning season” (Gurzi via NFL Spin Zone)."
The good old days of the NFC Central. The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Doug Williams and All-Pro Lee Roy Selmon, had been the laughing stock of the entire NFL throughout the first three years of their franchise’s existence. Their failures could be compared to the Hue Jackson era of the Cleveland Browns; it was that bad.
However, out of nowhere, the Buccaneers won the division and made the playoffs dawning their beautiful white, orange and red creamsicle jerseys. A significant step for a franchise to get over the proverbial hump they had been facing since their inception into the league.
"“Tampa Bay was entering just its fourth season in existence and up until this year, the Buccaneers had just seven wins overall as a franchise. They topped that total, as they raced out to a 9-3 start on the season” (Gurzi via NFL Spin Zone)."
Under Bruce Arians, the Buccaneers and the city of Tampa Bay are hoping 2019 could be a candidate for an “out of nowhere” season moving forward. After back-to-back 5-11 seasons, could the Buccaneers return to competition and make a push for the playoffs?