How a players-only meeting helped the Bucs turn things around
Throughout his career, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David hasn’t attracted the national spotlight like other immensely talented players who have dominated his position – namely warriors like Patrick Willis, Bobby Wagner, and Micah Parsons.
But don’t underestimate the 32-year-old player who has spent his entire career with the Bucs.
His resume is borderline Hall of Fame-worthy and includes being named first or second-team All-Pro three times. He also amassed nearly 1300 tackles.
David may not be the most vocal or famous member of the Tampa Bay Bucs (that spot is reserved for a certain seven-time Super Bowl-winning QB), but recently David’s impact was felt in a different way.
After falling to the Baltimore Ravens on Oct. 27 for their third straight loss, David and some teammates called a players-only meeting.
Speaking on USA TODAY Sports’ “Sports Seriously”, David told co-host Mackenzie Salmon that the purpose of the meeting was to, “get everybody on the same page.”
The meeting paid immediate dividends as the Bucs defeated the Rams 16-13 thanks to another Tom Brady-led miracle finish.
During the drive which began with 46 seconds left in the game, the iconic QB went 5 for 6 for 60 yards and sealed the W with a one-yard TD pass to rookie Cade Otton with 9 seconds left.
David told Sports Seriously co-host Tony Anderson that the win, which put Tampa Bay at 4-5 was “much needed” and “it definitely lit a fire for sure.” The win also elevated the Bucs to the top spot in the NFC South.
Still, David acknowledges “it’s still an uphill road to climb” and the team will next face a scorching hot Geno Smith and his Seahawks Sunday morning in Germany.
Watch the full conversation with David above
