The Bucs traded for Kansas City RB Michael Bennett in exchange for an undisclosed draft pick in 2008 and 2009. The team also released RB Lionel Gates and signed RB Kenneth Darby.

GAME PLAN
The Bucs are familiar with combating a Mike Martz offense. They battled Martz with the Rams for years in one of the NFL's most intense rivalries. The secret is getting pressure on QB Jon Kitna using a four-man rush so the linebackers and defensive backs can tee off on receivers.

But the Bucs haven't had much success rushing the passer this season. Defensive tackle Jovan Haye leads the Bucs with three sacks.

"It's high power," coach Jon Gruden said. "We're going to go up there and they are going to throw the football, try to move the football, big plays, lots of receivers that can catch and run, (and) a quarterback that can get them the football. It will be a tough task for us. We are definitely going to have to be on our game and be ready for a lot of looks in the passing game."

Offensively, the Bucs would like to be balanced if possible. But running back Michael Bennett may be limited with his knowledge of the Bucs offense. Look for Jeff Garcia to attack the Lions secondary through the air. Detroit is ranked 30th in passing defense, allowing an average of 263 passing yards per game.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH
Lions DE Dewayne White vs. Bucs RT Jeremy Trueblood. White left Tampa Bay via free agency but hasn't produced a sack since the first game of the season. He will be motivated against his former team. Trueblood has been the Bucs' most consistent offensive lineman.

Lions DT Cory Redding vs. Bucs G Arron Sears. Redding is the Lions' franchise player, while Sears is a rookie getting a baptism by fire. The Bucs have allowed a lot of inside pressure of QB Jeff Garcia.

Bucs WR Joey Galloway vs. Lions FS Gerald Alexander. Galloway has made some big plays in the passing game, including a pair of 60-plus yard TD passes. The Lions secondary is vulnerable and Alexander had better give Galloway some cushion.

INJURY IMPACT
RB Michael Pittman is out with an ankle injury. The Bucs traded for Kansas City RB Michael Bennett and signed former Raiders FB Zack Crockett.

TE Alex Smith has an ankle sprain and is questionable. He would be replaced by either Anthony Becht or Jerramy Stevens.

CB Brian Kelly has a groin strain and is questionable. Phillip Buchanon will start at CB.

DE Patrick Chukwurah has a shoulder injury and is questionable. That means more of rookie Gaines Adams.

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