3 Bold NFL Predictions for Week 6
Doug Martin Will Be A Top-5 Running Back
Why This Is Bold: Doug Martin has appeared in just one game this season during which he played on just 36.1 percent of snaps, limiting his opportunity for him to rack up touches.
Why This Will Happen: Martin may have only played just over a third of Tampa Bay's offensive snaps in his debut against the Patriots, but there's reason to believe there were multiple factors in play. The Thursday night game was his first after his suspension, and after spending three weeks away from the team, he had just three days of practice to shake off the rust. Additionally, he came off the field in the fourth quarter as the Buccaneers fell behind, ceding playing time to Charles Sims, who took just over 43 percent of snaps.
When he was on the field, though, Martin looked good -- he rushed 13 times for 74 yards and a touchdown against New England, even seeing 3 targets and catching 1. With the extra rest, Martin should be ready to resume a workhorse role in a high-powered offense.