The "dawg days" of training camp have arrived as training camp revs up in the sticky summer heat. Camaraderie is forged and for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a new offense takes shape between the hash marks. A new run game is being implemented under the direction of Liam Coen, one with lateral movement by the offensive line, a variety of run angles and options for backs to cut back inside or get to the outside. Throughout camp, the Bucs' screen game has been successful, with both Rachaad White and rookie change-of-pace rusher Bucky Irving picking up yards down the perimeter.
"That is huge," noted White on the team's screen game. "We have some offensive linemen that took care of themselves [during the offseason], and they all gained weight but all of them are still able to move out in space and that is the biggest thing. They all have that attitude and are nasty, so just as a running back to get outside and get out in space with them in front of you...it is amazing."
In order to be a bellcow and the primary workhorse in the NFL, backs have to do it all: Run, catch out of the backfield and block. For White, that is an element of his game that he takes pride in. Whether running between the tackles, running routes or making the initial defender miss in space, White strives for equilibrium.
"I like my game to balanced," stated White. "When I need to be power, I am power. When I need to be swift and smooth, I am smooth. I am a bigger back than a lot of people are accustomed to, so It is just different. You have to know when to be power and when to be smooth and swift to get in-and-out of things."
Last year, White finished the year with over 1,500 scrimmage yards and was 10 yards shy of surpassing the 1,000-yard rushing marker. White concluded the 2023 campaign with 272 totes for 990 rushing yards, six rushing touchdowns and 3.6 yards per attempt. In addition, he showcased his pass-catching prowess with 549 receiving yards on 70 catches for an average of 8.6 yards per reception. He possesses solid burst getting north, effective jump cuts and outstanding body control. Irving, his complement, has a low center of gravity that provides elite pad leverage and edge-acceleration for outside zone. The emphasis this year for the running back room is to start fast and this duo will play an integral role in dictating the flow.
