Feeling 'Bucky'? Bucs Rookie RB Irving Makes Push for No. 1 Spot

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had a dominant offensive showcase Sunday against the Washington Commanders. After an offseason musing about what the Bucs would like with Liam Coen leading this group, they showed up perfectly in tune throughout the 37-20 victory.

However the questions at the forefront since the end of last season revolved around the running game.

Tampa Bay did not have the answers at the time of their playoff defeat in January, but they may have found one in April's 2024 NFL Draft.

In his first NFL regular season game, rookie running back Bucky Irving dazzled on the ground, finishing with nine carries for 62 yards, averaging 6.9 yards per carry.

Altogether, the Bucs did not turn in an amazing performance in the running game, totaling 112 yards on 30 carries for 3.7 yards per carry. Mayfield accounted for 21 of those yards on three scrambles and Rachaad White mustered only 31 yards on 15 touches.

Irving lifted the final tally from a 31-yard run in the second half, reminding of the importance of his addition to this offense. Though White struggled to get going on the ground, the onus of making a big play when needed no longer falls squarely onto him.

He has a counterpart who can provide that spark. In turn, it significantly elevates the quality of this backfield.

Related: Baker Mayfield Proves 2023 Was No Fluke in Week 1

Granted, White as a receiver produced spectacular results, finishing second on the team with six grabs for 75 yards. But focusing specifically on the run, White needs to show more in that area.

Irving may have been slotted in as the No. 2 back when he was brought in, but there is a clear skillset present that could earn him a bigger role in this offense.

Regardless, Coen has both backs engaged and involved in this system. Defenses will have to be mindful of them across the formation no matter which player the Bucs want to utilize.