Try Hovan at UT next year?

[finnbluebucs]

I could see this if we drafted a larger, dominating NT. For example, if we picked up Alan Branch out of Michigan (who compares favorably to John Henderson IMO), he would be much better suited than the typical Bucs NT to handle double teams, meaning we could get by with less-than-elite UT talent by platooning Wyms and Hovan. This would be a departure from our traditional DT style, but I believe it could be effective.

Thats good idea IMO. Rotating Wyms and Hovan at the UT spot and Hovan and a first day picked NT would give us better pass rush up the middle I think.

[BucFanMatt]

When the Bucs picked up Hovan last year, I thought he seemed more of a natural fit at Under Tackle.  However, I understood that McFarland had a lock on the position because of his contract.  Now that McFarland is gone, I wonder if the Bucs won't put Hovan at UT to compete with Wyms next training camp. Then they can bring in somebody a bit bigger at NT that can soak up blockers and free up whoever is at UT to get to the passer. 

Obviously, neither Wyms nor Hovan are going to be mistaken for a young Warren Sapp, but I think they could be effective in Platoon especially if we get a bit stronger at the Nose Tackle position.  They both seem to be high motor guys that would probably thrive on the competition.  Of course, all this is moot if they can land a really good UT prospect through the draft or Free Agency, but I suspect it might be easier to upgrade the Nose tackle than the Under Tackle.  Any thoughts?

[alldaway]

Well I did see on a few plays Hovan playing undertackle so I can not really dismiss the possibility.  With that said Wyms had at least one sack in the last three games playing at UT.

It is easier to find a NT compared to an UT by a great degree.  I mean look at Bradely who the Bucs picked up off the street recently to rotate in on some downs.  He is already producing as much as the highly regarded Booger McFarand. 

[bradentonian]

I could see this if we drafted a larger, dominating NT.  For example, if we picked up Alan Branch out of Michigan (who compares favorably to John Henderson IMO), he would be much better suited than the typical Bucs NT to handle double teams, meaning we could get by with less-than-elite UT talent by platooning Wyms and Hovan.  This would be a departure from our traditional DT style, but I believe it could be effective.

[LVBUC]

Hovan left MIN because he was a flop at UT. He was their version of McF. He's found his best spot, much as McF was at his best spot before the move, and we best leave him there and be happy we've filled that spot.

Hovan had  the best year of his career at the UT spot.  2002 52 tackels and 6 sacks.

[Groovatron]

IMO Hovan has been the bright light of the DL this year. I thought he had a real good game last week. I'd leave him at the position where he's been successful.

[cheveliar]

Hovan left MIN because he was a flop at UT. He was their version of McF. He's found his best spot, much as McF was at his best spot before the move, and we best leave him there and be happy we've filled that spot.

Agreed, but I would like to see them flip flop on a situational basis only because he's got such a high motor and he's played to position.  At this point what do we have to lose?

[alldaway]

Hovan was not a poor UT in Minnessotta.  What happened is they switched to a two gap scheme.  Not to mention a rookie that was phenomenal in Kevin Williams.  Hovan lost his desire to play UT/NT or any football in general in Minnessotta.

[alldaway]

Hovan was not a poor UT in Minnessotta.  What happened is they switched to a two gap scheme.  Not to mention a rookie that was phenomenal in Kevin Williams.  Hovan lost his desire to play UT/NT or any football in general in Minnessotta.

Yes, Hovan quit but he quit when it became obvious that he couldn't man the position. If something is hard it is best not to even try appeared to be his motto. He's got that motivation back but he's got nothing as a pass rusher from the NT spot and good god even McF could get some pressure from that spot.  We've got something good at NT why do we want to monkey with that? Wyms is doing fine at UT. The DT spot, right now, looks like it is a "needs depth" not "needs a starter" type spot.

Hovan was benched when he was playing NT for the Vikes. 

[InChuckyITrust]

I agree with dal.  If it aint broke, dont fix it.

[mjs020294]

I agree with dal.  If it aint broke, dont fix it.

you came all the way to Tampa to post on PR....GO TO THE BEACH.   

[InChuckyITrust]

LOL... I am not a beach guy, probably has alot to do with being a new englander... im just hanging tight till the event at RJS this afternoon... i sent you an email btw