Tampa Bay Buccaneers face unexpected defeat against New Orleans Saints, playoff aspirations at risk
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered their pivotal matchup against the New Orleans Saints with a clear need for victories. Yet, on Sunday, they stumbled in a crucial divisional clash, suffering a 24-20 loss to a Saints team that had only two wins prior to this game. The defeat drops the Buccaneers’ record to 7-6, heightening the urgency as they prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons in just four days on Thursday Night Football.
First Quarter: A Tight Contest
The game kicked off with the Saints quickly asserting themselves. New Orleans quarterback Tyler Shough orchestrated a methodical drive, covering 45 yards in six plays, culminating in a Devin Neal touchdown run that gave the Saints an early 7-0 lead. However, the Buccaneers were quick to respond. Bucky Irving pulled in a 24-yard screen pass from quarterback Baker Mayfield, sprinting into the end zone to tie the game at 7-7.
Following this exchange, the Saints faltered, going three-and-out on their next possession. The Buccaneers attempted to capitalize on this momentum with a lengthy drive, but their effort stalled at the 45-yard line. Opting to go for it on 4th & 1, they were unable to convert. The Saints regained possession, but the first quarter wound down with little time remaining.
Second Quarter: Field Goals and Missed Opportunities
As the second quarter began, the Saints aimed to extend their lead but missed a field goal attempt, allowing the score to remain tied at 7-7. The Buccaneers managed to reach midfield but could not advance further, resulting in a punt back to New Orleans.
A stroke of luck came for Tampa Bay when Zyon McCollum intercepted a deep pass intended for the Saints, turning the tide momentarily. The Buccaneers were unable to find the end zone following the turnover but did secure a field goal, edging ahead 10-7.
The Saints struggled offensively after a sack by Chris Braswell pushed them back, forcing another punt. Tampa Bay, facing 4th & 1 once again, failed to convert, handing the Saints good field position. However, New Orleans also failed to capitalize on a subsequent 4th & 1 attempt, allowing the Buccaneers one last chance before halftime. Two hail Mary attempts fell short, and the first half concluded with Tampa Bay clinging to a narrow 10-7 lead.
Third Quarter: A Back-and-Forth Battle
The Buccaneers began the third quarter on offense, but Mayfield’s interception shifted the momentum back to the Saints, who capitalized with a 34-yard touchdown run by Shough, taking a 14-10 lead. Yet, Tampa Bay was not to be outdone; Sean Tucker rushed for a two-yard touchdown, reclaiming a 17-14 advantage.
The Saints mounted a strong response, advancing all the way to the Buccaneers’ eight-yard line. Stymied in their quest for a touchdown, they settled for a field goal, tying the game at 17-17 as the third quarter came to a close.
Fourth Quarter: Saints Seal the Victory
As the final quarter unfolded, the Buccaneers faced yet another critical 4th down. Their failure to convert once more allowed the Saints to regain possession. New Orleans took full advantage, orchestrating a decisive drive that ended with a 13-yard touchdown scramble from Shough, extending their lead to 24-17 with 8:30 left on the clock.
The Buccaneers managed to drive down to the 19-yard line but were once again denied entry into the end zone. They settled for a field goal, narrowing the gap to 24-20. With time running out, the Saints secured the ball and managed to run down the clock, punting with just 1:54 remaining. Tampa Bay had one last chance but fell short on a crucial 4th down attempt, sealing their fate as the Saints knelt down to secure the victory.
The Buccaneers now turn their attention to an upcoming showdown at Raymond James Stadium against the Atlanta Falcons, needing to regroup quickly as their playoff hopes hang in the balance.
