Bucs rushing game outperforms the team’s passing attack

TAMPA, Fla. – After finishing with the worst ground game in the NFL over the last two seasons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have crawled out of the basement with a ground game that has become a real threat.

“Just knowing those numbers, I’m not really a stats guy, but it was impressive to really look at the numbers and see the type of running game we had,” Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield said. “It takes everyone in this group as an offense to run the ball like that, and that’s why it was impressive.” [and] We have to keep going.”

The Bucs’ running game ranks eighth in the NFL, while their passing game ranks 11th. This is the first time since 2015 that the ground game has been better. It brings balance and opens up their entire playbook.

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“When we are able to run the ball effectively and have dominant performances,” Bucs wide receiver Chris Godwin said. “It will open up the play, the screens and the entire offense. I think it will be really important for us to continue to grow in this area. We’re doing some really good things, but I still think we could be better.

The rushing attack is a four-headed monster, with rookie running back Bucky Irving leading the ground game with 328 yards, but Mayfield has become part of the attack. Mayfield is just 29 yards shy of his career high in rushing yards this season, and that’s after just six games. However, Bucs head coach Todd Bowles said he would not include the quarterback’s name on the list of the league’s best running quarterbacks: Lamar Jackson, Jayden Daniels and Josh Allen.

“I’m surprised he’s mentioned in mobility with the group you just mentioned,” Bowles burst out laughing. “He’s, let’s say, fourth behind these guys.”

“There’s no way I would put myself in that category with those guys,” Mayfield said. “It amazes me when you can see some of these guys on tape. Lamar.” [Jackson]Jayden [Daniels]Josh [Allen]the things that they can do, the expansion of plays, just the vision that they have, that’s a God-given gift that they have. I’ll do what I can, but it’s not at this level.

Mayfield admitted he enjoys running when he gets the chance, but he has no plans to compete in a 40-yard dash competition with players like Lamar Jackson and Jayden Daniels.

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