The Tampa Bay Buccaneers preparation for the Rams took a big turn Wednesday when news of lead running back Doug Martin's injury spread throughout the organization.

"You know Doug Martin is an elite player in this league," said Dirk Koetter, who seemed irritated to be fielding questions about losing his top back. 

"The next guys up are not Doug Martin, or they'd be paid like Doug Martin. So, those are the guys that we have and they're gonna go in there and do a great job."

They will now lean on year six year veteran Jaquizz Rodgers, signed just last week and third year back Charles Sims, who the Bucs believe has earned the chance to be a lead back.

"Really they are similar in a number of ways," said offensive coordinator Todd Monken about Rodgers and Sims. "They are both good in pass pro(tection), they're both good catching the ball out of the backfield, can run with power when needed and we're excited. I don't see an issue with us being able to run the ball this week based on who are tailbacks are."

"Trusting our guys," said Jameis Winston when asked about losing an option like Doug Martin, for a reported three weeks due to a hamstring injury. "The offensive line has been playing outstanding. Chuck(Charles Sims) is a playmaker. Jaquizz, he made some great runs. I'm looking forward to seeing them in a full game atmosphere."

"Obviously the run game hasn't been where we want it to be," said center Joe Hawley. "We want to get our running backs as many yards as possible. Get 'em to the second level. They (the Rams) have a really good defense. A really good front seven. Running the ball is gonna be big to set up the play action, help Jameis feel more comfortable back there."

Charles Sims is more of a pass catcher with speed. Rodger's plays more like Martin, in-between-the-tackles. The Former Mr. Texas football is familiar with Dirk Koetter's system having played under him in Atlanta. He is experienced being the next man up.

"Coming in anything can happen so you just gotta practice as if you gonna be the starter so when you're number is called there is no let down or drop off," said Jaquizz Rodgers, who had two carries for 29 yards in his Bucs debut against Arizona. "

"He's short in stature, but he's a muscled up guy," said Dirk Koetter. "He's hard to see back there. He's extremely hard to bring down. Really good quickness. Really good vision. Can catch the ball outta the back field and he's got unbelievable pop in his pass protection."

Jaquizz Rodgers says he was thrown into the fire last week, but his main goal will be studying the playbook so he can be ready when his number is called.

When he asked about a specific snap count he said "I'll go in when Chuck is tired."