Game Recap: Saints vs Buccaneers
The New Orleans Saints overcame the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in an effort to salvage a trip to the postseason. New Orleans accomplished this with a stifling victory of 23–13.
The offense, led by quarterback Derek Carr, got off to a quick start, scoring on their first possession of the season. Carr had one of his greatest performances of the year, displaying exceptional pressure management skills and the ability to locate open receivers in key circumstances. With 24/32, 197 yards, and two touchdowns, he would end the day.
The offense was able to move the ball effectively for much of the game starting 6/8 on third down in the first half. TE Juwan Johnson finally found his groove making a handful of tough, acrobatic catches en route to his 8-catch, 90-yard performance while also scoring.
In addition, the team had several impressive rushes, as Jamaal Williams and RB Alvin Kamara combined for more than 100 yards on the ground. Along with one bag and no turnovers for the day, all of this is happening. This offensive was as efficient as it needed to be in this one, despite the lackluster stat line.
I have nothing but praise for their defensive play in the wake of last week’s disheartening showing in Los Angeles. This Sunday, the group only allowed Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield 43 yards in the first half.
The secondary was quick to eliminate WRs Mike Evans and Chris Godwin for almost the entire game. This while also being banged up in the secondary.
The same could be said about the run game as well. As a team, the Saints allowed just 57 yards on 15 carries, which forced Mayfield to try to throw his team back into the game.
After big plays, the Saints often lost the game due to crucial turnovers. Fumbles forced and recovered by the Saints neutralized both a big run by Rachaad White and a deep completion by Trey Palmer.
This, along with interceptions by S Jonathan Abram and CB Alontae Taylor, prevented Tampa from reaching the end zone for the majority of the day. Overall, just a brilliant, shrewd performance.
The Saints, who are still hoping to make the playoffs, have two chances to secure their spot in the postseason starting next week.
- Win vs. Atlanta & Tampa loss (results in division winner)
- Win vs. Atlanta, Seattle loss & Green Bay loss (results in 7th seed/WC)
These scenarios are pretty unlikely but we’ve seen crazy things happen in the NFL which is why we love it so much.
Can’t wait to see what’s in store for next weekend.
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