Rookie RB Bucky Irving Shows Late-Season Surge for Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie running back Bucky Irving is finishing the 2024 season on a high note, setting new career highs in rushing and scrimmage yards over the past two weeks. In the Buccaneers’ thrilling 26-23 overtime win against the Carolina Panthers, Irving rushed for 152 yards on 25 carries and scored a touchdown, marking his best performance to date.

Irving’s Growth in the Offense

According to head coach Todd Bowles, Irving is “getting more comfortable with the offense.” Bowles highlighted that the rookie’s ability to make defenders miss in the hole and his toughness on inside runs have made him a key asset to the Buccaneers’ backfield. Both Irving and fellow running back Rachaad White have been critical to the team’s offensive strategy, working well together to provide depth and versatility.

Historical Milestones and Rookie Honors

With 1,017 scrimmage yards in 2024, Irving joined former Buccaneers running back LeGarrette Blount as the only rookies from Oregon to surpass 1,000+ scrimmage yards. Irving’s recent consistency is remarkable, as he has posted over 70 rushing yards and a touchdown in each of his last three games, tying the longest such streak by a rookie in team history alongside Doug Martin in 2012.

Although it’s uncommon for a running back to surpass quarterbacks in the race for Offensive Rookie of the Year, Irving’s performance has certainly earned him a spot in the conversation for this prestigious award.

Teamwork and Offensive Strategy

Irving credits much of his success to the offensive line, acknowledging, “It’s those guys up front… I really don’t want to take all the credit.” His humility highlights the importance of teamwork in his success.

As Irving’s role in the offense has expanded, the Bucs’ offensive success has followed. Offensive coordinator Liam Cohen has effectively utilized “pony packages,” where both Irving and White are on the field together, creating more confusion for defenses. Irving explains how the “21 personnel” formation offers a variety of options, making it difficult for opponents to predict which running back will be involved.

Playoff Push in the NFC South

Irving’s outstanding performances have kept the Buccaneers in the NFC South playoff race. Currently sitting at a 6-6 record, the Buccaneers are trailing the Atlanta Falcons due to a tiebreaker. However, with just one team holding a winning record in the final five weeks (Los Angeles Chargers), the Buccaneers have a chance to finish the season strong, with Irving leading the offense toward a potential playoff push.