Fantasy Alert: Bucs' Bucky Irving Seen as Offensive 'Focal Point' by Opposing Coaches

Fantasy football managers who took an early-season flier on Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie running back Bucky Irving could see their faith rewarded in a big way.

Per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Irving's "skill set is hard to ignore, and opposing coaches are game planning for him as if he's a focal point of the offense."

Irving is in an equal-share backfield alongside third-year speedster Rachaad White. They both registered 10 carries for 49 yards in last Sunday's 33-16 win over the Philadelphia Eagles, but it was Irving who scored a touchdown.

White is expected to remain Tampa Bay's starter, but Fowler noted that Irving's skills could eventually put him over the top.

"There's a lot of buzz about Irving in those circles. That usually says something," Fowler stated. "Irving's shifty running style and big-play potential will keep him in the lineup, and when Tampa Bay needs to grind out wins with the run, there will be plenty of carries to go around."

Per Fantasy Pros, Irving is owned in just 53 percent of ESPN and Yahoo fantasy leagues. If he's still available in your league, giving him a roster spot ahead of Tampa Bay's Thursday Night Football matchup against the Atlanta Falcons could pay off down the line.