Against the Denver Broncos, not many players looked like they had a pulse on the Buccaneers. One of the few who looked the part was rookie running back Bucky Irving. A rookie running back being one lone pulse on a team of 53 men is impressive and deserves to be rewarded.
Bucky Irving is ready and deserving of a larger workload.
Irving has played 55 snaps to Rachaad White’s 121 through three weeks of the season. White is a dual-threat back, but he doesn’t look the same or work that way on Liam Coen’s offense. On the other hand, Irving has been a complete back for the team, especially in the pass protection category.
On 43 touches this year, whether through a rushing attempt or reception, White is averaging just 3.8 yards down from 4.6 just a year ago. If we project that out the rest of the season he is on pace for 538 total yards this year. The Bucs need more production out of the running back position, where Irving steps into the picture.
Irving has had 30 touches this year, averaging a whopping 6.1 yards per touch. Averging six yards per touch will be tough to keep up with, but the Bucs need to strike while the iron is hot.
If they had reversed the work they had gotten thus far, Irving would have the looks of an Offensive Rookie of the Year. The Bucs need to make a move now in the best interest of everyone on the offensive side of the ball.