The rookie’s explosive hump move and relentless work ethic are transforming Tampa Bay’s front. By absorbing double teams, Bain unlocks a lethal pass-rushing tandem alongside Yaya Diaby.
Rueben Bain Jr. didn't dominate in his preseason debut against the Kansas City Chiefs, but he showed why he's the catalyst for propelling the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defense to top-10 territory.
Bain's aggressive pass-rushing style creates opportunities for his teammates to have one-on-one matchups. On a 3rd-and-6 in the first quarter, he cut inside to rush the quarterback, giving Yaya Diaby a one-on-one matchup and was inches away from a sack.
ESPN's Mina Kimes said Diaby hasn't had a pass-rushing partner like Bain. He had seven sacks last season on a defense that struggled to pressure the quarterback, and could have a chance to record a career high next to the rookie.
"With Bain, now you have someone who can eat double teams, create opportunities for other players, but also, if given the opportunity, can win on his own," Kimes said.
On a 3rd-and-4 with eight minutes remaining in the first, Bain obliterated Kansas City's right tackle with his patented hump move.
Kimes also jokingly called coach Todd Bowles a "sicko" for his complex defensive playcalling. Bowles dropped Bain back into coverage, where he stayed close to Travis Kelce and pushed Noah Gray.
He's expanding his game, making him more than a pass-rusher. Bain played two drives, but what he showed Buccaneers fans could leave them excited for what's to come in the regular season.
Bain has gone viral for staying after practice and getting extra solo reps in the grueling Florida heat. Bowles has praised his work ethic on multiple occasions, and the rookie is preparing himself to stay ready when the fourth quarter arrives.
"I feel like in college most of my plays were made in the fourth quarter..." Bain told ESPN's Jenna Laine. "I know when I'm tired, the O-linemen are a little more tired than me."
Tampa Bay's 15th overall pick won't play in the team's preseason finale due to an AC joint sprain. The injury does not affect his Week 1 availability, as Bowles confirmed he should be ready for the opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Bain is a force to be reckoned with as a pass-rusher. He's providing the Buccaneers with an extra edge they missed last season after Hassan Reddick underperformed.
The rookie is creating a nice tandem with Diaby and could do the same with Al-Quadin Muhammad. Tampa Bay's pass rush has transformed in one offseason, and Bain could be the key to elevate the defense into top-10 territory once more.
