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For Will Allen and Cooper, their contributions have been on special teams. They are tied for seventh on the team with four special-teams tackles. Allen also forced a fumble in the Sept. 26 game against Oakland.
This time last year, Allen, the Bucs' fourth-round pick, was well on his way to earning All- America honors as a strong safety for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Cooper, Tampa Bay's third-round selection, was in the midst of his best season at the University of Washington - a team-leading 89 tackles, four sacks and two interceptions (one for a touchdown).
Neither has registered any defensive statistics this season.
``Sometimes it's discouraging, sometimes it's not,'' Allen said. ``It just depends on how you look at it. I just have to stay positive and fight through it, because it is what it is.''
Enduring their rookie duties, coupled with surviving the transition from the college game, can make for a good start into an NFL career.
``It definitely helps build your character to fight through adversity,'' Allen said.
``All the things we're going through this year will help us next year. We're all just preparing for our chance. We're anticipating that chance to get in, and we need to be ready for any opportunity to get on the field.''
Always nice to see former Buckeyes doing great.
Note: Kenny Peterson had his first career sack for the Packers today.