## Buccaneers’ Todd Bowles: Rookie RB Bucky Irving ‘Getting More Comfortable’ Along Late-Season Surge
**Tampa Bay, FL** – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been on a late-season surge, winning four of their last five games to put themselves in playoff contention. One of the key contributors to this success has been rookie running back Bucky Irving.
Irving, a seventh-round pick out of Michigan, has seen his role increase in recent weeks due to injuries to Leonard Fournette and Giovani Bernard. He has taken advantage of this opportunity, rushing for 258 yards and two touchdowns in his last three games.
“Bucky is getting more comfortable,” Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said. “He’s understanding the offense better, and he’s making plays.”
Irving’s emergence has given the Buccaneers a much-needed boost in their running game. Fournette, who has been dealing with a foot injury, has not been as effective as he was earlier in the season. Bernard, who has been dealing with a concussion, has missed the last two games.
**Irving’s Production Surges**
Irving’s production has increased steadily since he took over as the Buccaneers’ starting running back. In his first three games, he rushed for just 65 yards on 20 carries. However, in his last three games, he has rushed for 258 yards on 45 carries, an average of 5.7 yards per carry.
“I’m just trying to do my part,” Irving said. “The offensive line is doing a great job, and I’m just trying to hit the holes they create.”
**Playoff Implications**
The Buccaneers’ late-season surge has put them in contention for a playoff spot. They are currently 8-8, and they need to win their last two games to have a chance to make the playoffs.
“We’re not looking ahead,” Bowles said. “We’re just taking it one game at a time.”
The Buccaneers will face the Carolina Panthers in Week 17 and the Atlanta Falcons in Week 18. Both games are winnable, but the Buccaneers will need Irving to continue to play well if they want to make the playoffs.
**Irving’s Future**
Irving’s strong play in recent weeks has given the Buccaneers hope for the future. He is a talented young running back with a bright future.
“Bucky has a lot of potential,” Bowles said. “He’s a hard worker, and he’s always trying to improve. I’m excited to see what he can do in the future.”
If Irving continues to develop, he could be a key part of the Buccaneers’ offense for years to come.