The Tampa Bay Bucs have had plenty of time to reflect on and absorb the lessons from their heartbreaking Week 5 Thursday Night Football loss to the Atlanta Falcons. If they don’t shift their attention and correct their errors, they might suffer another heartbreaking divisional loss this Sunday afternoon. In addition to being ready, the Bucs might use some luck with the injury report. In terms of the running back room, though, it might not occur.
Rachaad White’s foot problem still plagues her. This Thursday’s workout saw the 2022 third-round draft pick sit out after participating in limited drills on Wednesday. He might now very well miss the team’s Week 6 game against the New Orleans Saints.
When White initially sustained the injury against the Falcons, it was thought that he would have ample time to recover from it during a 10-day break from NFL action. Even while it’s still possible, late-week downgrades typically indicate unfavourable news. During the first few weeks of the season, he still had trouble carrying the ball, but he was quite effective against the Philadelphia Eagles and Atlanta Falcons. In addition, the former Arizona State standout is valuable as a pass-catcher, helping Baker Mayfield and the Bucs offence create advantageous third-down circumstances.
However, head coach Todd Bowles may have a reliable backup to shoulder the load in the backfield.
Despite committing a costly fumble that prevented the Bucs from finishing off the Falcons in Week 5, rookie Bucky Irving is proving himself to be an impactful back. He is averaging 5.6 yards per carry with one touchdown through the first five games of his NFL career. His workload could be due for a big bump in the Crescent City if White stays on this current trajectory.