Bucs Defense Saves Day in Ugly Win
(September 20, 1999)

It may have been ugly, but a win is a win. That was the refrain following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 19-5 victory over Philadelphia in week two of the 1999 NFL season. There have been few offensive masterpieces in the history of the franchise and the defense has been called upon to save the day in numerous ugly wins.

The defense was the key in the first win in team history. On December 11, 1977, after 26 consecutive defeats, the Bucs won at New Orleans 33-14. Lee Roy Selmon recorded three sacks and three of the Buccaneers six interceptions were returned for touchdowns.

There are many other examples.

Even the score, 19-5, was ugly in the Buccaneers first victory of the 1999 season. From the team's first victory to its most recent, we should be used to it. A win is a win.