Pro Football News

Bucs demote Bates, Morris to run defense (AP) (sports.yahoo.com)

Tampa Bay coach Raheem Morris will call defensive plays for the Buccaneers after demoting defensive coordinator Jim Bates following a 1-9 start. The Bucs, who lost to New Orleans 38-7 Sunday, are 26th in the NFL in total defense, allowing just over 378 yards per game. They're last in rushing defense and have allowed 294 points, the second-highest total in the league.