Bandwagon Riding - Week 6

As is always the case, the NFL regular season is filled with players who surprised the experts by how well  they played.

So how should you respond to these surprising performances? Should you jump on the bandwagon or allow the opportunity to pick up these players pass you by.

Our fantasy coaches, Trip Smith and Bryce Johnson, share their thoughts below.

Let's do a little bit of bandwagon riding. We'll do a couple of players, whether we're going to jump on or off the bandwagon here we go. Off the bandwagon, it's time for bandwagon riding — getting on, getting off, make up your mind. All right, here we go.

Week 6 of the NFL season brought some explosive performances, especially from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As fantasy managers scramble to adjust their rosters, the running back situation in Tampa Bay is one to keep an eye on. Let’s dive into the latest trends and decide which players are worth jumping on—or off—the bandwagon.

On the Bandwagon: Sean Tucker (RB, Buccaneers)

The Buccaneers’ offense went off this past week, putting up over 50 points, and one player who has suddenly caught the fantasy world’s attention is Sean Tucker. The third-string running back had a monster game, scoring 39 fantasy points with 14 carries for 136 yards, one rushing touchdown, and three receptions for 56 yards and another touchdown.

While Rashad White was seen as the lead back, his inefficiency as a rusher has opened the door for Tucker to carve out a significant role. Tucker came into the NFL highly regarded by film experts but was hampered by injuries. Now healthy, Tucker seems poised to continue his role in the offense. While Rashad White remains valuable, Tucker is emerging as a strong waiver wire target.

Verdict: Jump on the Sean Tucker bandwagon—he’s not going away anytime soon, and in a running back by committee setup, there’s room for him to shine.

Off the Bandwagon: Rachaad White (RB, Buccaneers)

Despite being the starter, Rachaad White’s efficiency as a rusher is a concern. He’s performed well as a pass-catcher but has struggled to find success on the ground. With Tucker emerging as a legitimate rushing threat, White’s workload could take a hit, and his fantasy production may suffer as a result.

Verdict: Consider jumping off the Rachaad White bandwagon, or at least lower expectations moving forward. He may still contribute, but he’s losing ground in Tampa’s backfield.

On the Bandwagon: Bucky Irving (RB, Buccaneers)

Another name in the Bucs’ backfield is Bucky Irving, who also had a noteworthy performance. While Tucker stole the show, Irving remains a solid backup with the potential to step up in case of injuries. For managers who like to stash backups, Irving is a valuable handcuff, especially with the unpredictability of running back injuries.

Verdict: Keep riding the Bucky Irving bandwagon if you’re looking for depth or if you don’t trust Rachaad White.

Fantasy Tip: The New Running Back Reality

As we adjust to today’s NFL, the running back by committee approach is more common than ever. While fantasy managers used to dread committees, it’s become clear that even in a three-headed backfield, valuable points can still be had. The Buccaneers’ offense is proving to be a solid source of production, and grabbing a piece of it—even from a backup—can be a winning move.

Final Thoughts: Spending FAAB on Tucker

Should you blow your FAAB (Free Agent Acquisition Budget) on Sean Tucker? If you're desperate for a running back, he’s worth a significant portion of your budget. But if your roster is already strong at RB, don’t go overboard—Tucker is part of a committee, and his production may fluctuate week-to-week.

This week’s standout takeaway: Jump on the Sean Tucker bandwagon while keeping an eye on the rest of the Buccaneers’ backfield. Rachaad White’s role is in jeopardy, and the Bucs’ offense is firing on all cylinders.