Hear the teeth gnashing of the frustrated fan? Hear the dissatisfaction that comes with underachievement? Hear the howls of outrage directed toward the coach?

Why, if you didn't know any better, you'd swear it was 2001 all over again.

Seven years later and we have ourselves an echo.

Back then, of course, the coach stuck on a plateau was Tony Dungy. It was his offense that did not measure up, and it was his name that was being debated. Dungy was fired. Perhaps you heard about it.

But what if he hadn't been fired? What if the Glazers had been patient (or slow, if you prefer) back then, too. What if they had been reasoned (or distracted) back then?

What if Dungy had never left?

Jan. 11, 2002: The night before a playoff game with Philadelphia, Bryan Glazer says he is uneasy about the double-secret coaching negotiations with Bill Parcells. Who says Parcells won't change his mind again? Joel agrees, and the two light the grill with a signed Parcells contract.

Jan. 15, 2002: Days after losing to the Eagles 31-9, the Glazers announce a contract extension for Dungy. The media are scolded for ever doubting. "Who is this Parcells person?" the Glazers say.

Feb. 20, 2002: Raiders owner Al Davis trades coach Jon Gruden to Miami . The Dolphins surrender two first-round picks, two seconds, $8-million in cash and a large bowl of banana pudding.

March 1 5, 2002: The Atlanta Falcons sign running back Warrick Dunn to a $28-million contract. "You know how I feel about Warrick," Dungy said, "but players move on. Maybe he'll be back someday."

April 20, 2002: With the 21st pick in the NFL draft, the Bucs take Florida wide receiver Jabar Gaffney. The next round, they take Florida receiver Reche Caldwell. "Don't we always take a Florida receiver?" general manager Rich McKay says.

Dec. 29, 2002: The Bucs complete an 11-5 season by beating the Chicago Bears 15-0.