Buccaneers to use Brian Leonard, Bobby Rainey in backfield

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Nov 11, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Brian Leonard (30) runs with the ball as Miami Dolphins cornerback Nolan Carroll (28) attempted to defend during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Miami Dolphins 22-19. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Brian Leonard (30) runs with the ball as Miami Dolphins cornerback Nolan Carroll (28) attempted to defend during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Miami Dolphins 22-19. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers backfield is getting awfully lonely. After placing Doug Martin on the injured reserve list, it was Mike James who was set to take over as the starting running back. James was looking promising during his time carrying the load, but he suffered a broken ankle during the team’s Monday night win over the Miami Dolphins.

Now, the Buccaneers need to look at their other options.

The Bucs will be forced to split time between Brian Leonard and Bobby Rainey in the backfield as they look to keep their running game going.

“That’s probably how we’ll have to go — ham and egging with those two guys and see what we can do,” Schiano said, via ESPN.com.

The Buccaneers aren’t going to be a force in the NFC playoff picture, so the latest injury will not affect the way things should play out this season. In fact, it could end up helping the Buccaneers secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.