Why Bucky Irving Is Not The Key To The Buccaneers Running Game

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL last season. They ranked 4th in points per game and 3rd in yards per game. For a franchise that is historically known for great defenses, it was the offense that carried them to the playoffs last year.

A big part of that was the Bucs rushing offense. After ranking last in 2023 they took a massive jump all the way to 4th last season. It was the element that the offense has been missing for the last several years.

Many will point to running back Bucky Irving as the main reason why. The rookie sensation rushed for 1,122 yards in just three starts. His elusive running style made him one of the most exciting players in the NFL.

Now going into 2025 as the established starter many are expecting Irving to take a jump in production. But is the Bucky Irving hype overblown? Is Irving really the key to the Buccaneers success or just a piece of the puzzle? 

When talking about the success of a running back, it never really starts with the ball carrier. Rushing offenses are first and foremost defined by their offensive lines. The ability to create space and creases for backs to run through is always extremely important.

Fortunately, the Bucs are very good upfront. With the likes of Tristan Wirfs, Luke Goedeke and Cody Mauch, the Buccaneers have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. That should only improve next year.

Mauch is going into his third season playing guard after playing left tackle in college. Last year’s first round pick Graham Barton is going into his second year at center after also playing mostly left tackle in college. He looked good as a rookie and has a nasty mauling style as a run blocker.

The investment and development up front has been the key to the success of this Bucs offense. They are both young and talented. This group will keep the running game strong regardless of who the ball carrier might be.

This is reflected in the success of all three running backs. All three of the Bucs ball carriers had breakout years in their own respect. In large part thanks to their growth up front.

Bucky Irving is of course the one that most fans will point to. His 1,122 rushing yards ranked 10th in the NFL and his 8 rushing touchdowns ranked 15th. Impressive numbers for a rookie who wasn’t the starter for much of the season.