Pat Yasinskas, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

The Film Don't Lie: Buccaneers

A weekly look at what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers must fix:

A major reason Tampa Bay's offense ranks 30th in the NFL has been the lack of production from the running game.

Just look at what Doug Martin, who rushed for more than 1,400 yards as a rookie in 2012, is doing. Martin, who missed two games with a knee injury, is averaging only 2.9 yards per carry. He's gained only 139 yards on the ground, and his longest run of the season went for 19 yards.

A rebuilt offensive line that still is trying to get the proper chemistry undoubtedly is largely responsible for Martin's slow start. Watch the film and you don't see a lot of holes for Martin.

But some of the blame has to fall on Martin because the team's other running back, Bobby Rainey, is faring much better. Rainey is averaging 4.9 yards per carry, and he's doing it behind the same offensive line as Martin.

The Bucs have stuck with Martin as their starter, and that may pay off in time. Martin still is a talented runner, and maybe things will open up for him. But the Bucs can't wait too long for Martin to break out of his slump.

If Rainey continues to outplay Martin, it might be time to switch starting running backs.

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