TAMPA — For the second time in three weeks, Buccaneers coach Lovie Smith spent part of his Monday explaining the limited use of RB Doug Martin during a Bucs loss the day before.
Martin, who ranks second in the NFL in rushing with 1,214 yards, carried the ball only 11 times for 81 yards during the 24-17 loss to the Saints on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium. He also caught one pass for 5 yards, giving him 12 total touches.
“I think that just happens, and that’s the answer we’re going to give,’’ Smith said. “How many plays, time of possession, there’s a lot of things instead of just, ‘Doug didn’t get the ball that many times.