The Buccaneers’ backfield has been a bit of a mess this season, but not due to underperforming. There’s plenty of talent — almost too much to maximize each week. It’s a good problem to have, but it makes for tricky fantasy decisions.
Bucky Irving, Rachaad White and Sean Tucker have all led the backfield at some point this season. Irving was the consensus RB1 heading into the year, but an injury set him aside for a handful of weeks. White and Tucker took over, and it’s White who leads the team with 474 rushing yards.
Now that all three are healthy, what should you expect from the backfield moving forward, specifically in Week 15 against the Falcons?
Irving is the starting running back, but his snap share isn’t as dominant as it used to be. In the two games since his return, Irving has played in 48.6% and 52.5% of offensive snaps. That’s well below the 73.3% he was averaging at the start of the season.
White already proved himself as a quality backup, but Tucker took advantage of Irving’s absence. He had four games of 40+ yards, with one over 100 yards this season. Because of this, he thrusted himself into the running back timeshare. He recorded 29 yards on seven carries vs. the Saints last week.
Irving led all backs with 15 carries and 55 yards, while White had 11 carries for 53 yards. Tucker scored a rushing touchdown, and Irving scored a receiving touchdown. The timeshare is a bit worrisome for fantasy owners as Irving may not play as large of a role going forward.
That said, the Falcons are a weak run-stop defense. They rank 25th in rushing yards allowed and 26th in carries. Atlanta’s defense shines much more against the pass, so it would be wise for the Buccaneers to attack on the ground, assuming they can take and maintain a lead.
Irving is still good enough to start, especially since he’s an active pass-catcher. White and Tucker are less viable in fantasy, but they’re both possible fliers if your lineup needs a miracle.