Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston walked to the podium as he does each Wednesday for his weekly press conference. This time however, the former FSU standout was carrying an NFL football with him.

One of the reporters joked, mentioning him bringing in a prop. Winston corrected him quickly, saying the ball had nothing to do with being a prop.

Jameis Winston – Photo by: Mark Cook/PR

“I really just want to give this game ball to the fans,” Winston said. “They did an amazing job and it really helped us out. This game ball goes to all the fans doing an amazing job and I hope that that is in our future every Sunday at Ray Jay. This is for you fans.

“(The game against Seattle was the) loudest I’ve heard it since I’ve been here.”

The atmosphere for Sunday’s game took on a playoff-like feel. It was no coincidence it was the most attended game of the season with 63,674 tickets distributed, and actual attendance per the Tampa Sports Authority was 57,882 as reported by the Tampa Bay Times. 

Make no mistake, Winston said, it make a difference to the players.

When you’ve got your fans involved in a game, it definitely messes with the defenses and the offenses when they’re out there,” Winston said. “It gives the team an extra sort of boost.

“I just thank them for supporting us and being out there. It was a great experience.”

Not only did the Bucs end up with what looks to be the long-term solution to their 40-year quarterback woes, they also drafted a public relations dream it appears.