The Pewter Plank
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Five Reasons the Buccaneers Will Make a Playoff Run in 2016

By Alan Schechter

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Jan 3, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) stiff arms Carolina Panthers cornerback Josh Norman (24) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin (22) stiff arms Carolina Panthers cornerback Josh Norman (24) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Doug Martin Will Contend for the Rushing Title

Prior to 2015, I was not a big believer in Doug Martin.  His rookie year was huge, sure, but he did have two seasons with significant drop off.  Yes there were injuries, but he wasn’t the same player.  The term “flash in the pan” came to mind.  We have seen it before, where a player looks good as a rookie, and then they fall apart.  LeGarrette Blount comes to mind, falling off of the map after his rookie 1,000 yard season.  Michael Clayton is another one.

Dougie sold me last year.  He was explosive, to the tune of 4.9 yards per carry, a career high.  1,402 yards placed him second behind Adrian Peterson.  Unlike his rookie season, Martin had Charles Sims to help keep him fresh, allowing him such a season.  The dynamic duo is back, and they have added a fullback in Dan Vitale, and one that could potentially make a huge impact, if you ask fellow Pewter Plank writer Zach Sauers.

Even with Logan Mankins retiring, Doug Martin is healthy, and he is going to have another monster season.

Next: The Return of V-Jax

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