Bucs coach Raheem Morris said he has enjoyed taking a more hands-on approach in practice this week and is looking forward to making the defensive calls Sunday at Atlanta.

Morris, 33, was named the Bucs’ defensive coordinator last Christmas but never actually had a chance to assume that role. The only time he called plays was for one season in 2006 as the defensive coordinator for Kansas State.

On Monday, Morris relieved Jim Bates as defensive coordinator.

“That's kind of my strength, that's kind of what I missed being a head coach to be honest with you,’’ Morris said. “Not being so much hands-on but being the director, the general and the leader and the manager and all those things.

“Now you pick up another title. I’ll be the manager, the deliverer, the general and you -get back on the field so you can be hands-on.’’

Morris’ timing could be better. The Falcons are expected to get injured running backs Michael Turner (ankle) and Jurious Norwood (hip) back for Sunday’s game.

"It's just another challenge for me,’’ Morris said. “Fortunately, I'm in a position to call plays and I've got to do the best job I can do for this team to go out there progress and we can all get on the same page and that's all a part of it.’’