Bucs Running Back Sean Tucker Set for Key Role in Saints Showdown

TAMPA, Fla. — As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare to face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, all eyes are on running back Sean Tucker. After a breakout performance in 2024, Tucker is hoping to make a significant impact on the team’s offense.

In Week 6 of last season, Tucker rushed for 136 yards and caught passes for 56 yards, scoring two touchdowns in the process. However, his opportunities dwindled afterward. Despite showing promise, Tucker had just 34 carries for 165 yards in the remainder of the season.

With key receivers sidelined, Bucs coach Todd Bowles indicated that they will adjust the game plan to emphasize the run game. “We definitely want to get Sean more snaps,” Bowles said. “Rachaad [White] can’t take that much of a load, week in and week out.”

Offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard echoed Bowles’ sentiments. He emphasized the need for a balanced offense, noting that relying too heavily on the passing game leads to inefficiency. In their last game, the Bucs threw 50 passes while only running 11 times. “That’s not a good formula for success,” Grizzard said.

Tampa Bay’s run game will be tested against a Saints defense that ranks 23rd in the league against the run, allowing an average of 129.4 yards per game. The team’s past success against New Orleans gives Tucker optimism. In their last matchup in 2024, the Bucs rushed for an impressive 277 yards.

“The more that we can run it and establish it earlier, you’re going to create longer drives,” Grizzard added. If Tucker receives more carries, he could showcase his dynamic skills once again, helping the Bucs rebound from their recent loss to the Lions.

As the Bucs aim to improve to 6-2, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Tucker as he looks to seize this opportunity against a rival team.