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NFL Draft What-Ifs: Bucs Take Marcus Mariota

By Erik Lambert

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Oct 18, 2014; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) runs the ball against the Washington Huskies at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports

Everybody was so certain of things a few short days ago and then the Tampa Bay Buccaneers threw it into the garbage disposal when they paid a visit, by private jet no less, to Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota.

Suddenly the assumptions that they were a lock to take Jameis Winston from Florida State didn’t seem as rock solid as anticipate, leading many to wonder whether the Bucs would actually do it.  Would they take Mariota over Winston?

Why They Would

Let’s not sugarcoat this.  Jameis Winston is a classic NFL draft boom-bust prospect.  He can elevate high enough to carry his team to a championship but based on character issues and certain physical concerns can also become the next great bust.

Marcus Mariota, crazy as it sounds, may be the safer pick.  He’s a better athlete, has good size and a strong enough arm and a squeaky clean reputation.  His biggest drawback was not playing in a pro offense at Oregon, something the Bucs coaches can fix if they’re patient.  Don’t forget they still have Mike Glennon, who can start for the time being until he’s ready.

It’s not a crazy idea.

What Happens If They Do

Rest assured there won’t be any blockbuster trade that so many NFL draft enthusiasts want.  If Jameis Winston gets past #1, he won’t get past #2 because the Tennessee Titans will scoop him up before the ink on their card is dry.

The reason is he is the absolute ideal fit for their offensive system under head coach Ken Whisenhunt:  big, strong, charismatic, and the arm and accuracy for making the vertical throws down the field.  If there is any team on the board praying that Tampa Bay desires Mariota, it would be the Titans.

In other words, any outstanding trades or maneuvering for quarterbacks would end should this what-if take place.

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