Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans are buzzing about running back Bucky Irving. Is he ready to be the team's offensive bell cow? After a Week 3 performance against the New York Jets where Irving carried the ball 25 times, the question is being asked: can he sustain that workload?
Irving's Role in the Bucs' Offense
Irving has emerged as a key weapon in Josh Grizzard's offense, forming a dynamic running back tandem with Rachaad White. While carries are often split, Irving also contributes as a receiver, easing the pressure on quarterback Baker Mayfield. Against the Jets, Irving had a career-high workload, but only managed 66 yards. Is this a sign of things to come, or just a game-plan specific approach?
Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard remains noncommittal. "I think each week is determined on how the game's going,” Grizzard said. “He knows if we need him and he goes 25 or if it's 15 or might need to be 30, whatever it takes to get the win that week and then be able to adjust off of that moving forward potentially.”
Week 4 Preview: Irving vs. the Eagles
This week, Irving faces the Philadelphia Eagles, whose rushing defense ranks 24th in the NFL, allowing an average of 133.3 rushing yards per game. While no rusher has hit 100 yards against them this season, they've allowed multiple rushing touchdowns.
Irving himself has accumulated a team-best 174 rushing yards on 56 attempts this season, averaging 58.0 yards per game. He also has 14 receptions for 91 yards and one touchdown. Keep an eye on Irving this week!
Key Stats:
- Irving averages 58 rushing yards per game.
- The Eagles' defense allows 133.3 rushing yards per game.
- Irving has one receiving touchdown this season.
Will Irving have a breakout performance against the Eagles? Tune in to find out!