Doug Martin: Why Rookie Will Be Huge Fantasy Football Steal in 2012

It was only a matter of time before rookie Doug Martin would supplant LeGarrette Blount as the starting running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

It just wasn't supposed to happen so soon.

Martin got the start over Blount in the Buccaneers' third preseason game against the New England Patriots last Friday. Head coach Greg Schiano noted on Sunday that it was based on his performance this summer, per Buccaneers.com.

What did Martin do with his opportunity?

Well, he rushed 13 times for 41 yards, including a touchdown in the Buccaneers' opening drive and a 19-yard scamper at the end of the first half that allowed Tampa Bay to kick a field goal and go up 20-7.

This should come as no surprise, though. Martin was highly regarded coming out of Boise State before the draft this year, which is why the Buccaneers selected him No. 31 overall, ahead of Virginia Tech's David Wilson.

Matthew Berry of ESPN.com wrote in his "Love/Hate" for 2012 two weeks ago:

"

Among the quotes from Greg Schiano about Doug Martin in his press conference about Martin: "He's a three-down back"; "He's good in pass protection"; "Yes, I do see some Ray Rice in him"; and "I love this kid." Been taking the first-team reps in practice, and I don't think there's any way he lasts until the eighth round as preseason progresses.

"

Martin is already Tampa Bay's top option as a goal-line back. His start against the Patriots showed that the Buccaneers see him as much more than that. That means Martin will not only likely collect his fair share of touchdowns this season; he will get a decent amount of carries, as well.

Blount's production dropped in 2011-2012. After registering over 1,000 rushing yards and six touchdowns in 2010, he rushed for 781 yards and five touchdowns last season on 4.2 yards per carry. On top of that, he's had a rough past couple of games in the preseason, collecting just 33 rushing yards on 15 carries with no touchdowns.

Martin's athleticism, footwork, mentality and all-around game impressed NFL teams before the draft this year. He is no fluke and will go on to become a productive running back in the pros.

He's already off to a fast start behind a solid offensive line.

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