As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers gear up for their Week 1 clash with the Atlanta Falcons, all signs point to second-year running back Bucky Irving being a major factor in the game plan and possibly in line for a breakout performance to open the 2025 season.

After taking over as the Buccaneers’ lead back in 2024 and flashing his dynamic skill set, Irving enters the season with more responsibility and trust within the offense. With Rachaad White healthy but now operating in a complementary role, the backfield belongs to Irving, and his versatility could present major problems for Atlanta’s defense.

One key advantage for Irving this week is the matchup against a Falcons defense that struggled to contain running backs in space last season. While Atlanta has bolstered its defensive front, the unit is still largely unproven against shifty, dual-threat runners. Irving thrives in that exact role, offering explosive cuts between the tackles and natural hands as a receiver out of the backfield.

With left tackle Tristan Wirfs out for Week 1, the Buccaneers may look to get the ball out of Baker Mayfield’s hands quickly and rely on short-area concepts. That plays directly into Irving’s strengths as he’s dangerous on swing passes, screens, and checkdowns, where he can create yards after the catch and stretch the defense horizontally.New offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard is also expected to lean on tempo and disguise, using two-back looks and pre-snap motion to keep Atlanta off balance. Irving’s ability to stay on the field for all three downs allows Grizzard to remain unpredictable, no matter the personnel.

If Tampa Bay can establish any rhythm early, Bucky Irving’s touches could pile up, and his impact could be the difference in a tough divisional battle.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Is Bucs’ Bucky Irving poised for a big Week 1 against the Falcons?

Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect