What we learned...
Matt Cassel is not getting it done: On paper, Cassel's numbers appear fine (6-of-10, 57 yards), but anyone watching the game could see that the Patriots quarterback had a lot of difficulty moving the ball. Cassel is battling for a roster spot and his cause was not helped by a couple of drops by his receivers. Rookie Kevin O'Connell did not fair much better, telegraphing an interception in the third quarter.
The Patriots defense looked slow: Whether it was the first team or the backups, the Patriots defense clearly lacked any punch, making Brian Griese look like Tom Brady on an 8-for-8 opening possession touchdown drive that took 9:38 off the clock. Tampa Bay's running backs consistently gained yards after contact, amassing a total of 170 yards on the ground.
Antonio Bryant showed some burst: After missing all of 2007 because of off-the-field issues, the Bucs receiver has been lauded by coach Jon Gruden for his performance in training camp. Buccaneers fans saw why on Sunday as Bryant made a pair of nice catches, including a 33-yard catch-and-run in the second quarter. He added a 16-yard run in the first.
Bill Belichick values versatility: One way to earn a spot on the Patriots' 53-man roster is being able to play multiple positions. New England drafted Matt Slater to be a wide receiver, but the former college DB saw time at safety in this game, showing off his coverage skills. Conversely, DB Ray Ventrone, lined up at wide receiver and caught two passes in the fourth quarter. Even recently signed safety John Lynch was seen lining up inside the box as an outside linebacker.
