Bucky Irving just ripped off a franchise-record rushing performance against Atlanta, dropping 170 yards as the Buccaneers steamrolled for 324 on the ground. This dude is the real deal, and he’s dead center of Tampa Bay’s whole offensive identity right now. Now, he’s lining up to test a Chicago Bears defense that’s supposed to be one of the NFL’s best against the run. But don’t let those rankings fool you, because Irving is about to show them why Tampa Bay leads the league in rushing.
Irving’s Untouchable Surge
You know the feeling, right? When a player just finds that next gear, and suddenly he’s making everyone look silly. That’s Bucky Irving right now. He’s already stacked up 728 rushing yards on 147 carries, averaging a ridiculously good 5.0 yards per attempt. He’s hit the 100-yard mark in three of his last four games, including that insane 170-yard outburst against Atlanta. His vision, that acceleration, and his uncanny ability to make defenders flat-out miss in the open field make him a nightmare. When the offensive line clears just a little space, he’s already at the second level, doing work.
Bears’ Run D Has a Hidden Flaw, And Simmons Faced Seattle
So, Chicago’s defense looks stout on paper, ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game, giving up just 86.8. Pretty impressive, right? But here’s the thing: they’re also giving up 4.42 yards per carry, which ranks them 22nd in the league. That’s a huge distinction, because Tampa Bay isn’t just grinding out yards, they’re turning those rushing chances into explosive plays better than most.
On their D-line, linebacker Devin Bush earned an 82.6 grade in Week 8, putting him 11th among 77 qualifying linebackers, according to Pro Football Network. And defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, man, he’s a problem. He pulled an 89.9 grade, third among 92 qualifying defensive tackles. His arrival totally makes this matchup tougher, and even Seattle got a taste of Simmons’ power after his impressive debut against our Hawks. Grady Jarrett, though, got a 55.4 grade, ranking 85th, so maybe there’s a weak spot there.
Good thing the Buccaneers’ offensive line has been straight-up *improving*. Luke Goedeke scored a 90.3 run-blocking grade against Atlanta, and Tristan Wirfs wasn’t far behind with an 85.9, per PFF. That kind of blocking is what Tampa Bay needs against Chicago’s revamped defensive front.
Tampa Bay needs its running game to travel, especially with Baker Mayfield still trying to get the passing game fully cooking. This isn’t just another game, it’s a chance for Irving to scream to the whole league that his recent dominance isn’t a fluke, it’s the new normal. If he can find space early, bust those tackles, and hit the second level, this ‘tough’ matchup could get real uncomfortable for Chicago, real fast.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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