The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are gearing up for a promising season with their dynamic running back duo, Rachaad White and Bucky Irving. Having put together a strong rookie campaign, both players are looking to hit the ground running in a dynamic new season. On the field, they will complement each other, bolstering each other’s performance. With gaudy numbers and great development over the years, they are both likely to be key components of the Buccaneers offensive game plan.
Rachaad White, who is 6-foot-2 and 212 pounds, played a whopping 373 snaps last year. He caught 47 passes for 392 yards, showing off his dual-threat running back skills. His six receiving touchdowns were tied for the league lead among all running backs. White proved he was a truly elite pass protector during his last season of college action. He ranked 11th in pass block win rate at 74.6%, winning 42 of his 55 attempts. Some coaches have pointed out his occasional hesitancy to attack holes, which could limit his effectiveness in short-yardage situations.
Irving is a much smaller back, standing at 5-foot-9, 192 pounds. Still, he particularly wowed in his inaugural season, playing on 263 of Baker Mayfield’s 651 dropbacks. Irving displayed unreal foot quickness, earning a ridiculous 60% missed tackle rate. This incredible stat set the record for the most ever tracked by Next Gen Stats since 2016. He brings a different type of energy to the Buccaneers’ backfield. Both players are capable of playing together on the field in 21 personnel formations as well.
In 2022, no team made opponents pay for this formation better than the Buccaneers. They were 3rd in the league, averaging an impressive 8.4 yards per play. This versatility would provide head coach Todd Bowles with a novel situation to maximize both backs to the fullest.
In discussing White’s progress, running backs coach Josh Grizzard noted, “He’s even light years ahead of where he was at this point last year.” This quote is a testament to White’s work ethic and his commitment to getting better and evolving his game.
Baker Mayfield, the Buccaneers’ quarterback, praised both players’ capabilities, stating, “Obviously it’s a luxury for us on offense.” He praised White’s progress in blitz pickup and Irv-ing’s potential too. Mayfield added, “With those guys, obviously they can catch like receivers,” highlighting their ability to contribute in the passing game.
Irving is keeping his eyes on today — and adamant to not make excuses looking back on what once went wrong. You know, I don’t get caught up in any of that stuff,” he said, acknowledging all of that while highlighting his relentless pursuit of perfection. He maintains a forward-looking mentality, asserting, “I’m not a guy that’s stuck in the past… It’s what you can do right now.”
The Buccaneers are preparing for the first season of the Todd Bowles era. The teaching staff is certain that both tailbacks will be stars. While White’s size and experience provide a solid foundation, Irving’s agility and versatility can further enhance their offensive strategies.
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