When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hired Lovie Smith, they were also agreeing to hire Jeff Tedford as their new offensive coordinator. Now that both coaches have settled into their new gigs, Tedford is starting to give Bucs fans an idea of what sort of offense to expect in 2014.
Doug Martin is a franchise running back, but Tedford states he doesn’t want to put the whole load on Martin’s shoulders. Instead, the new offensive coordinator says he’s installing system he used at Cal in which multiple running backs are used throughout the year.
"“When I was at (the University of California) we were always very fortunate to have two very good backs, whether it was J.J. Arrington and Marshawn Lynch or Lynch and Justin Forsett, or Lynch and Jahvid Best or Best and Shane Vereen,’’ Tedford said. “We really had a good one-two punch in the backfield there and I think that’s what you need. For one guy to carry the load the whole time, especially as physical as this level is, is a lot.”"
Not only does this mean Martin’s shelf life has been extended, as the wear and tear will be less strenuous, but it also means that Bobby Rainey and Mike James could get more touches as well. It also opens up the possibility of the Buccaneers drafting a running back in the draft this year to complement the young Martin with another young prospect.