Chandler Whitmer does not need much convincing when it comes to what Rueben Bain Jr. can bring to Tampa Bay’s defense. He already experienced it firsthand.
Speaking recently, Whitmer recalled preparing against Miami during a national championship run and admitted that Bain caused major problems for the offense throughout the game. Whitmer specifically remembered telling the offense over the headset, “Guys, we can’t block these guys,” while discussing Miami’s edge rushers.
That perspective says a lot about how opposing staffs viewed Bain before he entered the NFL. Tampa Bay drafted him for his disruptive ability, but hearing those reactions from coaches who had to game-plan against him adds another layer to the evaluation.
The interesting part is that Whitmer now gets to watch that same pass-rush ability work for Tampa Bay instead of against it. Todd Bowles’ defense creates constant pressure opportunities for edge defenders, particularly players capable of winning one-on-one matchups consistently.
Bain still has to prove himself at the NFL level, but comments like Whitmer’s help explain why the Buccaneers viewed him as more than just another developmental pass rusher entering the draft.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs new QB coach seems happy to be playing with Rueben Bain Jr.
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
