The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have more on their minds this week than just their highly anticipated NFC South showdown against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday afternoon. This is not just any game; it’s a pivotal face-off in a fiercely competitive division.
Arriving in New Orleans as early as Tuesday to dodge the looming threat of Hurricane Milton, the Bucs (3-2) settled down for an intense week of preparation. Practicing on the grounds of Tulane University from Wednesday onward, they ensured their focus remained sharp, despite the stormy circumstances.
“Overall, everything went well with the evacuation,” confirmed coach Todd Bowles with relief. “We got the team out, we got their families out, we got their pets out, and everything else was fine. Family is the most important thing right now. Material things can be replaced.”
Bowles added that most of the players have their families safely with them in New Orleans. “It’s a great relief for them and they can focus on football,” he emphasized. “While we are acutely aware that football is just a facet of life, especially with the impact of this hurricane, our concentration is unwaveringly set on our preparation for Sunday.”
The Bucs have had ample time to rest and regroup following their narrow 36-30 overtime loss to Atlanta on October 3. This recovery period allows them to maintain the ferocity that led to a season-high 160 rushing yards in that outing. Quarterback Baker Mayfield commented, “We have to keep the same mentality of establishing the line of scrimmage.”
Conversely, the Saints (2-3) are scrambling to prepare after a tough Monday loss at Kansas City, marking their third straight defeat. The short week presents a challenge, especially with rookie Spencer Rattler stepping up as the starting quarterback due to Derek Carr’s fourth-quarter oblique injury against the Chiefs.
Following Carr’s absence, second-year reserve Jake Haener‘s performance saw him complete just 2-of-7 for 17 yards. However, head coach Dennis Allen quickly opted for Rattler, stating, “We talked a lot internally and decided that Spencer gives us the best chance to win this particular game. He has tremendous athletic ability, can throw accurately, and create plays with his feet.”
Allen is aware of Bowles’ reputation for deploying “exotic blitzes” and knows his rookie will face these challenges in his regular season debut. Unfortunately, Carr is just one of many casualties on the Saints’ injured list, which also includes key players like Alvin Kamara and Taysom Hill.
The Bucs have fared better on the injury front. Defenders Calijah Kancey and Antoine Winfield Jr. are making strides towards recovery, while offensive tackle Luke Goedeke is also back to practice. Still, the uncertain status of players like running back Rachaad White and wide receiver Jalen McMillan remains a concern.
As it stands, Tampa Bay is neck and neck with Atlanta for the division lead, each with a one-game advantage over the Saints. The stage is set – the battle lines are drawn. This Sunday isn’t just about football; it’s about resilience, it’s about heart, and it’s about proving who is truly deserving of the NFC South crown.
