Rachaad White, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' third-year running back, missed a game for the first time in his career, sitting out the team's Week Six game at New Orleans due to a foot injury. That threatened to disrupt the Buccaneers' backfield tandem of White and rookie Bucky Irving, which was becoming increasingly effective. Just a week earlier, the two had spearheaded a season-best 160-yard rushing effort, with White's 72 yards on 10 carries leading way.
Through the first five games of the sesaon, Irving had taken the lead in rushing yards with 247 to White's 187, but White had 81 more receiving yards. In terms of total output, it was a near 50-50 split. As promising a start to his career as Irving was constructing, the Bucs clearly wanted to keep White's usage high, as well. Through those five games, White had played 66.9% of the team's offensive snaps to 36.9% for Irving (that does include some overlap with plays that had both backs on the field).
So while the Buccaneers were perfectly happy to move Irving into the primary role for however much time White missed, it was reasonable to wonder if the team would still have a strong rushing attack powered by multiple ballcarriers. The only other running back on the roster was second-year man Sean Tucker, a 2023 undrafted free agent out of Syracuse who had 53 career yards from scrimmage at that point. (The Bucs also elevated rookie back D.J. Williams from the practice squad for the game.)
Or perhaps it wasn't reasonable to wonder about the health of the Bucs' ground game. In New Orleans, Irving kept doing what he has done all season, ripping off chunk plays and finishing with 105 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown. He averaged 5.8 yards per carry and his season-long average is now 5.7. That's the third-best per-carry mark in the NFL among qualifying running backs.
Tucker got 29 snaps on offense after logging nine combined through the first five games. All he did with those 29 snaps was rush for 136 yards, catch three passes for 56 yards for a total of 192 yards from scrimmage and score once on the ground and once through the air. He's the first Bucs back to accomplish that latter feat since Leonard Fournette in 2022. Tucker averaged 9.7 yards per carry, with exactly half of his runs going for 10 or more yards. He also helped the Bucs gain back some momentum after a 20-points-in-five-minutes blitz by the Saints in the second quarter when he took a short swing pass out to the right and shot through the defense for a 36-yard touchdown.
Tucker was very productive at Syracuse, amassing 3,804 yards from scrimmage and 31 total touchdowns in 33 games. He set the school's single-season rushing yardage record in 2021 with 1,496. In The Athletic's Dane Brugler's heavily-research and well-regarded 2023 NFL Draft Guide, Tucker was pegged as a likely fifth or sixth-round pick. However, at that year's NFL Scouting Combine, he was diagnosed with a heart condition of which he wasn't previously aware and was unable to take part in drills that week or throughout the spring. It is likely that is what saw his draft stock fall, but the Buccaneers were eager to sign him when he wasn't selected. A strong training camp helped him make the active roster and he started the season as the team's number-two back before seeing his role gradually dwindle.
But he was ready for his opportunity on Sunday in the Superdome.
View the top images of Tampa Bay's Week 7 game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, October 13th, 2024.
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, Wide Receiver Jalen McMillan #15, and Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Guard Luke Goedeke #67 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Guard Luke Goedeke #67 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Chris Braswell #43, Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0, and Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Inside Linebacker Lavonte David #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Fans before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers catches a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6, Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14, and Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns a fumble for a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns a fumble for a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers returns a fumble for a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 and Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Fans during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Ryan Miller #81 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Cornerback Zyon McCollum #27 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 and Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers scores a touchdown during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Fans during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - The Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 celebrates a turnover with Cornerback Tyrek Funderburk #24 and Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Defensive Tackle Vita Vea #50 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Doug DeFelice/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - General Manager Jason Licht before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Outside Linebacker Yaya Diaby #0 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterbacks Coach Thaddeus Lewis and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Cornerback Tavierre Thomas #37 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 and Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Kicker Chase McLaughlin #4 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Antoine Winfield Jr. #31 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Calijah Kancey #94 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 and Outside Linebacker Chris Braswell #43 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Inside Linebacker K.J. Britt #52 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7, Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 and Wide Receiver Sterling Shepard #17 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Defensive Lineman Logan Hall #90 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tight End Cade Otton #88 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Bucky Irving #7 and Wide Receiver Chris Godwin #14 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Cornerback Tyrek Funderburk #24, Safety Tykee Smith #23 and Outside Linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka #9 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Running Back Sean Tucker #44 and Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Jordan Whitehead #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 and Tackle Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Senior Director or Team Operations Tim Jarocki receives the game ball after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Senior Director or Team Operations Tim Jarocki receives the game ball after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Head Coach Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Safety Tykee Smith #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NEW ORLEANS, LA - October 13, 2024 - Offensive Lineman Robert Hainsey #70 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints. The Bucs won the game, 51-27. Photo By Tori Richman/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
"Sean did an excellent job," said Head Coach Todd Bowles after the game. "We had some good runs in the first half [but] some penalties, we shot ourselves in the foot so much we kept having to throw it. But in the second half, between Sean and Bucky, with Sean filling in especially – he's got a lot of speed.
"This is the Sean Tucker we thought we'd get when we got him last year, and he's coming into his own."
Good things have happened with Irving on the field so far this season, and it's hard to see Tucker going back to an almost non-existent role on offense after that Week Six performance. All of which begs the question of how touches out of the backfield will be distributed when White returns to action. It might be hard to feed three different backs, but on Monday Bowles made it sound like the team would try to find a way.
"It's definitely worthy of him making it a three-headed monster," said Bowles. "He took advantage of his opportunities. He ran away from some tackles, some linebackers, he ran through the hole, he cut back, he made plays, he caught the ball well out of the back field so that gives us a three-headed monster."
In terms of football distribution, it also complicates matters – in a good way – that Baker Mayfield is off to a sizzling start, with a 109.4 passer rating and an NFL-leading 15 touchdown passes. He threw four more on Sunday against the Saints. And no offensive coordinator would ever consider minimizing the roles of wideouts Chris Godwin and Mike Evans. Perhaps it will be something of an ebb and flow, with the Bucs going with the hot hand (or hands) in the backfield and game situations dictating how much they will lean on what appears to be a rapidly improving run game.
That was the case against the Saints. After a wild first half, the Bucs started to pull away in the second half, opening up a double-digit lead. Irving and Tucker were consistently breaking off chain-moving runs and that allowed the Bucs to keep the ball away from the Saints and burn time off the clock.
"We broke some runs so that made it a little bit more feasible to run the ball," said Bowles. "Between Bucky [Irving] and Sean [Tucker], they broke some runs outside and were setting up some blocks pretty well and it was working for us so we stayed with it."
On Monday morning, Bowles did not yet have any updates on the status of the team's injured players, including White. The team does have an extra day to get ready for the Baltimore Ravens, who they play on Monday night in Week Seven. It will become clearer later in the week if White is headed for a quick return, as the Bucs would hope. It my take a little more time after that to figure out how the Bucs are going to feed their new "three-headed monster."
