From Derrick Brooks, the legendary linebacker who was the heart and soul of the defense, to Rondé Barbe, one of the league’s most prolific cornerbacks, to Tom Brady, the now retired (for good) quarterback who requires no introduction, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have boasted star-studded team lists over the years. But David Shilkitus explains that the Bucs weren’t always the champions they are today.
In fact, it was a particularly slow, long-winded journey mired with struggles and mediocrity. The team has an undeniably remarkable transformation story — one that not many teams can top.
The Beginning Proved Fruitless
1976 saw the Buccaneers enter the NFL as an expansion team that didn’t manage to find their footing early on. Sadly, their 14 consecutive season loses garnered them a less-than-positive reputation, becoming known as the “Yucks” for consistent poor performances.
Tony Dungy Said Enough is Enough
As the late 90s rolled around, the team hired head coach Tony Dungy, who instilled a renewed sense of defensive greatness and discipline in the team. His leadership resulted in the Bucs’ defense being one of the league’s most dominant lines, featuring jaw-dropping players like John Lynch, the aforementioned Derrick Brooks, and Warren Sapp.
The improvement was good. But it wasn’t yet great; they didn’t make the Super Bowl.
Jon Gruden Came to Make the Offense Thrive
In 2002, the Bucs hired Jon Gruden as head coach in what was considered to be “bold move.” He was known across the league for his aggressive training style and offensive implementations, but it was exactly those things the Buccaneers required. And it certainly paid off.
With Gruden at the helm, the offense blossomed, suiting their now-fantastic defense line perfectly. It was at this stage that the team appeared in the Super Bowl for the very first time.
Super Bowl XXXVII: The First Buccaneer Appearance and Win
Despite facing the preferred Oakland Raiders during Super Bowl XXXVII, the Bucs showed opposition fans what they were missing out on as they intercepted five passes from Rich Gannon, Raiders quarterback, and ended up scoring a whopping 48-21 win.
It’s safe to say this was a turning point for the team, validating their hard work and seasons spent taking loss after loss.
Modest Success Followed
The Bucs continued playing at a high level after the Super Bowl win, remaining a playoff contender each season. Even though they had a few hairy moments, they were performing consistently, thanks to key players like Warrick Dunn, running back, Brad Johnson, quarterback, and Keyshawn Johnson, receiver.
18 Years Later: The Bucs Revival
Following ten years without making a playoff and hiring four different coaches, the Bucs hired the accoladed Bruce Arians in 2019. With a glowing report card under his belt, he brought a brand-new offensive strategy to the team.
But Arians wasn’t the be-all and end-all of their upcoming success. During the 2020 offseason, they signed Tom Brady, the most accomplished QB in NFL history. With him onboard, hopes and expectations were amped — but they exceeded them.
The 2020 season culminated in a historic victory at Super Bowl LV. The Bucs battled the Kansas City Chiefs, displaying true domination and ending in a legendary 31-9 win.