RSS Bucs Team Notes

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFL Week 8 Opening Odds: Buccaneers at Saints

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have started the season with a 5-1 record as they now await their Monday Night matchup against the Lions in Detroit. Tampa Bay has been able to overcome injuries to key players and close the door on several matchups, however they will have a big task facing off against a Lions team back at home after a tough loss against the Kansas City Chiefs last week.

But looking ahead to next week, odds are already set as they travel to New Orleans to face a divisional foe in the Saints.

So how do the oddsmakers feel about Tampa Bay’s next matchup? Per FanDuel, Tampa Bay is a 6.5-point favorite for Week 8 of the 2025 regular season.

Point spread: Bucs -6.5
Point total: 47.5
Moneyline: Bucs -275, Saints +225

New Orleans has had a tough time playing football. At 1-6, they’ve got nothing going for themselves. Their only win came against a lowly Giants team back in Week 5 — before New York figured out how to put up points behind rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Next week’s game between the Bucs and Saints is scheduled for next Sunday with kickoff set for 4:05 PM ET.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-bay-buccaneers-odds/65864/nfl-week-8-opening-odds-buccaneers-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Lions: 2025 NFL Week 7 Open Thread, Staff Picks, and Inactives

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the road this week as they are set to play the Detroit Lions.

Tampa Bay will be without Chris Godwin and Bucky Irving this week. However, they will see the return of Mike Evans and will have rookie sensation Emeka Egbuka active as well. You can see the rest of the inactives here.

Kickoff is set for 4:25 PM EST. Enjoy each other’s company in the comments section!

Staff game picks and score predictions​

Gil Arcia (6-0): Bucs 26, Lions 20
Mike Kiwak (5-1): Bucs 35, Lions 28
Evan Wanish (5-1): Lions 31, Bucs 27
Will Walsh (5-1): Lions 32, Bucs 25

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/game-day...-week-7-open-thread-staff-picks-and-inactives

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Week 7 Top Performers at Detroit Lions

At this point, all Buccaneers fans are all too familiar with this feeling.

The team is playing well, guys are looking good, then a primetime game against a quality opponent happens and it all goes to pot. Over the last two years, we’ve seen it happen against the Chiefs, the Ravens, the Eagles, the Bills, and the Lions…the Bucs find themselves unprepared and unproductive under the bright lights, and that carried over with a stinging 24-9 defeat Monday.

The entire offense looked off-kilter and took a massive blow when franchise cornerstone Mike Evans sustained a terrifying concussion and shoulder injury that ruined what should’ve been his triumphant return after a hamstring issue costed him 3 games. The defense fought hard and created multiple turnovers but could only do so much against the wagon that is Detroit’s excellent offense.

It’s a tough loss and will make for a long plane ride home, but the turnaround is short with another road game against the division rival New Orleans Saints Sunday before heading into the bye week. Let’s do some quick shouts and move on.

Offensive Top Performer: WR Tez Johnson​

The diminutive seventh-round rookie led the Bucs receivers on an overall poor night for the unit, but Johnson still deserves credit.

After a rough start that saw some route miscommunications with Baker Mayfield, Johnson made some key plays, headlined by his elusive 22-yard touchdown on a screen. He finished with 4 catches for 58 yards and the score.

Cade Otton had to fight the Lions and the refs but still led the team in overall receivers with 7 catches for 65 yards. Props to Emeka Egbuka for gutting through a minor hamstring issue to mirror Johnson in catches and yards just without the score.

Nothing else was particularly notable. Mayfield was absolutely terrible all night long, his worst game in more than a year. We’ll see how quickly he can shake it off.

Defensive Top Performer: EDGE Yaya Diaby​

Diaby has steadily ascended this season to be consistent disruptor for the Bucs defense, and the numbers are starting to show it.

He consistently pressured Goff when the game was still within reach, highlighted a strip sack that brough his season total up to 4. He also chipped in 5 total tackles.

Jamel Dean snagged his third interception of the year, while Tykee Smith played well again with 13 combined tackles, a sack, and a pass defensed as he continues to acclimate well to safety. Antoine Winfield Jr. made some plays as well, including a touchdown-saving tackle, en route to an 8 tackle night.

The defense honestly played well for most of the night, but the two massive plays allowed to Jahmyr Gibbs will overshadow it all.

Special Teams Top Performer: P Riley Dixon​

Dixon did fine enough to try and control field position for the Bucs, as he pinned a season-high 4 punts inside the 20 and averaged 43.8 yards per kick. He didn’t get anything blocked so that was about the only thing worse that could’ve happened.

Not much else to say, Chase McLaughlin gave the Bucs some life at the end of the first half with a 53-yarder. That was all he got called on to do.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...aneers-week-7-top-performers-at-detroit-lions

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFC Playoff Picture: Tampa Bay Buccaneers fall from top spot after loss

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers no longer hold the top spot in the NFC, losing to the Detroit Lions on Monday night. They are still in firm control of the NFC South race, but they fell behind both the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Eagles and Buccaneers share an identical 5-2 record, but Philly is 4-1 in the NFC while Tampa is 3-2 in the conference. That’s the tiebreaker there. Tampa Bay’s win over San Francisco keeps them from falling all the way to fourth, as the lead the 49ers with that head-to-head tiebreaker.

NFC standings after Week 7​

The Packers lead the NFC North, the Eagles lead the NFC East, the Buccaneers lead the NFC South, and the 49ers lead the NFC West.

The Lions are in the top wild card spot following by the Rams and Bears with the Seahawks still able to win on Monday and launch up.

1. Green Bay Packers (4-1-1)
2. San Francisco 49ers (5-2, wins over SEA & LAR, 5-1 NFC)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2, 4-1 NFC, win over TB)
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2, 3-2 NFC, loss to PHI)
5. Detroit Lions (5-2, 2-1 NFC)
6. Seattle Seahawks (5-2, 1-1 NFCW, 2-2 NFC)
7. Los Angeles Rams (5-2, 0-1 NFCW)
8. Chicago Bears (4-2, 3-2 NFC)
9. Carolina Panthers (4-3)
10. Dallas Cowboys (3-3-1, 2-3-1 NFC)
11. Atlanta Falcons (3-3, 2-3 NFC, win over MIN)
12. Minnesota Vikings (3-3, 1-2 NFC, loss to ATL)
13. Washington Commanders (3-4)
14. Arizona Cardinals (2-5)
15. New York Giants (2-5)
16. New Orleans Saints (1-6)

NFC South standings after Week 7​

The Carolina Panthers have rattled off three straight wins to surge to 4-3 but Bryce Young is set to miss at least one game with an injury. The Atlanta Falcons lost on Sunday night to fall to 3-3. The New Orleans Saints are fighting for the top spot in the 2026 NFL Draft at 1-6. The Buccaneers fall to 5-2 but have the Saints on deck before the bye.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2)
2. Carolina Panthers (4-3)
3. Atlanta Falcons (3-3)
4. New Orleans Saints (1-6)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-bay-buccaneers-fall-from-top-spot-after-loss

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Tampa Bay Buccaneers CB Jamel Dean is the NFL’s ultimate eraser at an unexpected age

Throughout the 2025 NFL season, SB Nation’s Doug Farrar will write about the game’s Secret Superstars — those players whose performances might slip under the radar for whatever reasons. In this installment, we turn our attention to Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Jamel Dean, who is making history at his age for elite pass defenders, who don’t usually have their best NFL seasons this close to their thirties.

For a lot of cornerbacks, the age 29 year is one you don’t want to face. You’re right around the corner from your thirties, and that’s generally when you want to start thinking about broadcasting. Cornerbacks who have been above average to great earlier in their careers can really fall off once the big two-nine happens. Xavier Rhodes, Rasul Douglas, Darius Slay, Marlon Humphrey, Patrick Peterson, and Xavien Howard are among those formerly great defenders who unfortunately tripped all over themselves at 29. Since 2000, and there are far more who have done so than those who have avoided the age-curve curse.

So then, what is there to say about cornerback Jamel Dean of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who is not only having his best season at age 29, but is on the way to making a bit of history? Dean hit that dangerous age on October 15, and he won his first NFC Defensive Player of the Week award on his birthday after his bravura performance against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 6.

In that 30-19 Bucs win, Dean had a sack, a forced fumble, and he gave up three catches on five targets for 104 yards, 51 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, an interception, and an opponent passer rating of 64.6. Dean became the first player with the sack/forced fumble/interception trio in the 2025 season, and the first Bucs player to win NFC Defensive Player of the Week since Ronde Barber won it in Week 1 of the 2012 season.

But wait — there’s more! Yes, the Bucs were embarrassed by the Detroit Lions on Monday night in a 24-9 surprise loss, but Dean was just as on point as he’s been all season, with one catch allowed on four targets for 24 yards, 7 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, another interception, and an opponent passer rating of 12.5. And given the coverage Dean was presented with — spot-drop Cover-3 in which he really didn’t have a chance to stop receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown — it could be argued that Dean pitched a shutout when given a reasonable opportunity.

every time a defense plays spot-drop cover-3, an adorable baby starts vaping and falls in with the wrong crowd pic.twitter.com/QB2oP7SDEb

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) October 21, 2025

Yeah, there are reasons that modern defenses match coverage across these days as opposed to just passively working to spots and creating voids.

In any event, on the season per Pro Football Focus, Dean has allowed 10 passes on 25 targets for 171 yards, 65 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, a career-high three interceptions, three pass breakups, and a NFL-low opponent passer rating allowed of 24.3. Pro Football Reference has Dean’s opponent passer rating at 24.6, and that’s the lowest for any age-29 cornerback in PFR’s database, which has advanced metrics going back to 2018.

Basically, what Dean is doing as the league’s stingiest pass defender at his age doesn’t have much of a precedent. Among cornerbacks playing at least 50% of their teams’ snaps this season regardless of age, nobody else is remotely close — Jaycee Horn of the Carolina Panthers ranks second with a 44.3 passer rating allowed, which puts Dean as the only NFL starting cornerback that presents quarterbacks with dirting the ball as the better option to targeting him.

Jamel Dean of the @Buccaneers isn't just the best lockdown cornerback in the NFL this season — he's also on pace to have one of the best age 29 cornerback seasons… well, ever. pic.twitter.com/Esey6p4sds

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) October 21, 2025

“I am a goal-oriented kind of person, so once I start speaking on this is what I am going to focus on, then I basically just lock in and do whatever I can to make sure I can make it possible that it happens,” Dean said on his birthday.

Dean also explained both the interception and the sack against the 49ers.

Jamel Dean on his INT vs. the 49ers: "We were in a zone coverage. It was fourth-and-five, so I was thinking sticks first and then once that ball did not come out for the stick route, then I just kept sinking. I guess I [sunk] at the right time [because] as soon as I started… pic.twitter.com/lDwy64MnZK

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) October 21, 2025

Jamel Dean on his sack vs. the 49ers: "Well, on the blitz play, I realized I only had one guy to beat {tight end Luke Farrell]. I was just trying to get to his hip so I could at least bend the corner, and once I realized Mac Jones did not get the ball out in time, I was like,… pic.twitter.com/yzJ3Ypv8MH

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) October 21, 2025

When asked on October 16 why Dean is playing the best football of his career in his seventh season, Bucs head coach Todd Bowles made it sound like Dean was much younger. Maybe it’s just that Dean looks younger, because he’s generally been a very good cornerback; he’s just amped it up from good to great.

“It clicks,” Bowles said. “It takes a few years to get it all down and become a seasoned vet. He’s healthier, number one. When he was healthy, he always played decent football. I think the mental part of it is clicking with the physical part right now. He’s not thinking as much – he’s just playing ball. He feels free, and he’s doing a great job.”

Now, there’s the matter of Dean’s restructured contract, a revision of the four-year, $52 million extension with $24.5 million guaranteed in 2023. The 2025 restructure makes Dean a free agent next season as opposed to the 2027 season, so the Bucs will have an interesting decision to make.

So far, Dean has made his case, and he’s done so with authority. Age ain’t nothing but a number.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...underrated-player-vs-detroit-lions-nfl-week-7

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 7 Game Recap: Buccaneers look bewildered in loss to Lions as injuries mount

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had the Monday Night Football stage in week 7. A team trying to earn national respect with a quarterback raking in MVP votes matched up against a team that took the field against trying to earn national respect with a quarterback raking in MVP votes; A matchup of mirror image teams in a lot of ways— Which reflection would take the win?

First Quarter:​

Last week, the Buccaneers’ offense was the first to get the ball and the first to punt it. This week Detroit’s offense was first up, however, Tampa’s unit was still the first punt. The Lions cruised down the field for a quick Amon-Ra St. Brown touchdown. 7-0, Detroit. Tampa Bay’s aforementioned punt came after a quick three-and-out. Running the risk of facing an early two-score deficit, Todd Bowles’ defense stepped up. Yaya Diaby and a rare phenomenal moment from a Buccaneers’ edge-rusher gave Baker Mayfield the ball back with excellent field position. Diaby pressured Jared Goff from his blindside and was able to use his wingspan to swipe the ball out of Goff’s hands for an Elijah Roberts fumble recovery. Tampa Bay’s offense, not quite as stout as their defense, followed up the turnover with another punt.

Second Quarter:​

At the start of quarter number two, the Buccaneers’ offense was beginning their third drive, still without a single first down. The team would finally nab their elusive introductory first down, however, not much would follow— It wouldn’t be until Tampa Bay’s next drive that they would get their second. While the Buccaneers were tallying first downs by duo, Detroit’s offense was stacking touchdowns. 14-0, Lions, following a 78-yard Jahmyr Gibbs score.

When it rains it pours, the Lions play in a dome, but it was pouring on the Tampa Bay sideline. Struggling to find yards, first downs, completions, and health the Buccaneers re-lost Mike Evans in his return to action and pieced together back-to-back turnovers —As many as they’ve had all season— with a Sterling Shepard fumble and a Baker Mayfield interception.

With an abnormally horrendous offensive performance underway, the Bucs’ defense continued to their best to keep the team afloat. The Lions’ offense, gifted great field position off of consecutive turnovers, came up empty. A missed field goal and then a third Jamel Dean interception of the season kept Detroit halted at 14. Jamel Dean’s interception actually allowed the Buccaneers to put a small dent in the Lions’ lead 14-point advantage, with a long Chase McLaughlin kick to give the Bucs a semblance of life before half. 14-3, Detroit.

Third Quarter:​

The Bucs’ offense finished the second quarter with their only scoring drive of of the half. The unit followed up those three points with easily their best drive of the evening. Baker Mayfield dealing the ball to his Mike Evans-less set of weapons Emeka Egbuka, and then ultimately Tez Johnson for drive-capping touchdown— A catch-and-run highlight reel score, his second in as many weeks. A failed two-point conversion left Tampa in single digits on the scoreboard— 14-9, Lions.

With their lead threatened for the first time since kickoff, Detroit responded. The Lions’ offense cruised right back down the field and handed Tampa Bay a brand-new 12-point deficit. 21-9, Detroit.

Fourth Quarter:​

The Lions’ next drive stumbled into a punt as the fourth quarter got underway. In what felt like a last opportunity to rally Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense lined up 90 yards from a touchdown. The length of their drive? Significantly less than 90 yards. The Buccaneers passed the ball to Cade Otton who had a few bad moments with the ball coming his way on Monday. Tampa Bay’s second turnover was a Baker Mayfield interception on a pass intended for Otton where Otton was truly out battled for the football. The fourth quarter featured Otton coming up a microscopically short on a failed fourth down attempt

Down 24-9, Tampa Bay pittered, pattered, and putted its sputtering offense into the red zone before eventually bogging down with another failed fourth down attempt. Baker Mayfield’s poor performance had its perfect encapsulation as the game’s last legitimate drive was unsuccessful following multiple missed receivers in the end zone. Mercifully, the clock hit zero and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers can head back to Tampa and lick their wounds.

For more Bucs coverage check us out here:

@Will_Walsh_NFL(X)

@Bucs_Nation(X)

@Will_Walsh_NFL(YouTube)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...bewildered-in-loss-to-lions-as-injuries-mount

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Reacts Survey Week 8

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Heading into Week 8, we want to know how you’re feeling after watching the team so far this year. Every week of the season we will ask fans if they are confident the team is headed in the right direction and more of the most pressing questions facing the coming game. Let us know what you think!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/65924/buccaneers-reacts-survey-week-8

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

UPDATE: Bucs WR Mike Evans leaves game early against the Lions

Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans sustained a concussion and a shoulder injury during Monday night’s game against the Detroit Lions, dealing a major blow to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense as the unit was already struggling on the night.

In the second quarter, Evans reached out for a catch on a deep throw from quarterback Baker Mayfield and came down hard on his shoulder. He was on the ground for a while and immediately showed signs of dizziness after needing help getting up from the trainers. He was evaluated on the sideline and subsequently placed in concussion protocol. The shoulder impact appeared significant as well, and team officials confirmed the dual injury shortly after.

Evans has been a reliable target throughout his career, and his absence could ripple through Tampa Bay’s game plans as they were looking forward to having the veteran receiver back after missing time with a hamstring injury.

We’ll await further word from team officials and hope the injury is not as serious as it appeared.

**UPDATE**
After the game, Todd Bowles told the media that Evans has a broken clavicle. This will end his streak, and place him for return at the tail end of the regular season. But that may be a bit optimistic.

Todd Bowles on Mike Evans' timetable for any return from a broken clavicle: "He'll be out mostly toward the end of the year. We'll see what happens."

— Greg Auman (@gregauman) October 21, 2025

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ike-evans-leaves-game-early-against-the-lions

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Lions: Inactives for Week 7 Monday Night Football

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be playing as the visiting team tonight in Detroit to face the 4-2 Lions. The Bucs are coming off an impressive home victory against the San Francisco 49ers, while the Lions are coming off a rough road loss to the Chiefs. Both teams are dealing with injuries in their own ways, so who will they be missing this evening?

Tampa Bay will be without wide receiver Chris Godwin as he is dealing with a fibula injury. A big question mark heading into this game was the status of rookie receiver Emeka Egbuka. But he will be active and play despite his hamstring injury last week. Veteran receiver Mike Evans will be returning to action tonight for the first time in several weeks. They will still be without running back Bucky Irving.

Defensively, they will be glad to have cornerback Zyon McCollum returning to the field after a thumb injury sidelined him a couple weeks ago.

Detroit will be down four from their secondary tonight.

The full list of inactives for both the Buccaneers and the Lions are posted below.

Inactives for MNF pic.twitter.com/FrkMrC2n2N

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 20, 2025

#TBvsDET inactives presented by Henry Ford Health pic.twitter.com/qtQ6kFsrA4

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 20, 2025

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...878/buccaneers-lions-inactives-nfl-week-7-mnf

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Lions: Predictions and staff picks for Week 7

As the Buccaneers get set to take on the Lions in Detroit on Monday night, we here at Bucs Nation will dive into some picks and predictions for Tampa Bay’s big Week 7 matchup under the lights.

Check it all out below.

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Predictions​

Offense

Last week against the 49ers, the Bucs offense clicked even without their top receivers in Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Emeka Egbuka. In fact, Baker Mayfield knew it was hitting on all cylinders so much, he told one of the coaches on the sideline he’s mad at his own performance because they could have put up 50 points. Well, they certainly won’t come close to that Monday but could get some clock management from the run game that may play part in that. Look for the Bucs to have nearly 150 yards on the ground against the Detroit as they try to limit the sack-crazy Lions defensive front from getting to Mayfield often.

Defense

The Detroit Lions are averaging just over 31 points per game in 2025 while Tampa Bay is giving up 25. The Lions have had some good fortunes against their points when it comes to scoring and with a healthy Buccaneers defense facing off against a tough Detroit offense, we may see a back and forth affair for a bit until the second half. With that said, that will cause enough angst on the Lions offense to force them into turnovers. Look for the Bucs to force at least one fumble and cause Jared Goff to throw two interceptions.

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Week 7 Staff Picks​

Gil Arcia (6-0): Bucs 26, Lions 20
Mike Kiwak (5-1): Bucs 35, Lions 28
Evan Wanish (5-1): Lions 31, Bucs 27
Will Walsh (5-1): Lions 32, Bucs 25

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ff-picks-nfl-week-7-baker-mayfield-jared-goff

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Saints: Predictions and staff picks for Week 8

As the Buccaneers get set to take on the Saints in New Orleans for an NFC South battle, we here at Bucs Nation will dive into some picks and predictions for Tampa Bay’s big Week 8 divisional matchup under the lights.

Check it all out below.

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Predictions​

Offense

Tampa Bay’s offense did not have a good outing in Detroit last week. In fact, one may argue that quarterback Baker Mayfield was the primary culprit. But this is a retribution game for him and the rest of the Tampa Bay offense. Look for Mayfield to redeem himself as he tosses three touchdowns to his young receivers and throw for over 250 yards.

Defense

The Buccaneers defense will be playing a not-so-explosive Saints offense, making the challenge a bit less threatening compared to a week ago. But it doesn’t mean the Bucs won’t give up big plays like they did last week — albeit a big uncharacteristic of them. Still, they are catching a less than stellar opponent at the right time. Like Mayfield’s yardage through the air, put down the Bucs holding the Saints to 250 total yards or less in this matchup.

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Week 8 Staff Picks​

Gil Arcia (6-1): Bucs 24, Saints 16
Mike Kiwak (5-2): Bucs 35, Saints 14
Evan Wanish (6-1): Bucs 26, Saints 20
Will Walsh (6-1): Bucs 31, Saints 16

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ers-saints-predictions-staff-picks-nfl-week-8

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

NFC Playoff Picture: Tampa Bay Buccaneers move up with help

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost the top spot in the NFC last week with their loss and even though they won in Week 8, they didn’t get a ton of help in the playoff race. The loss by the San Francisco 49ers moved the Bucs up one spot from fourth to third.

The Green Bay Packers stayed in first place with their Sunday night win. They remain the only one-loss team in the conference.

The Philadelphia Eagles won in Week 8 to hold onto the second spot via tiebreaker over Tampa.

The only playoff team to lose was the San Francisco 49ers, who fell from fourth to seventh. The Seattle Seahawks slid into the division lead in the NFC West.

The Eagles and Buccaneers share an identical 6-2 record, but Philly is 5-1 in the NFC while Tampa is 4-2 in the conference. That’s the tiebreaker there.

NFC standings during Week 8​

The Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams were on a bye and kept their playoff positions in the wild card.

The Commanders play on Monday night and the Packers play Sunday night. We will update.

1. Green Bay Packers (5-1-1)
2. Philadelphia Eagles (6-2, win over TB)
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2, loss to PHI)
4. Seattle Seahawks (5-2, 1-1 NFCW)
5. Detroit Lions (5-2, 2-1 NFC)
6. Los Angeles Rams (5-2, 0-1 NFCW, 0-2 NFC)
7. San Francisco 49ers (5-3)
8. Chicago Bears (4-3)
9. Carolina Panthers (4-4)
10. Dallas Cowboys (3-4-1)
11. Atlanta Falcons (3-4, win over WAS & MIN)
12. Minnesota Vikings (3-4, 1-2 NFC)
13. Washington Commanders (3-4, 1-4 NFC)
14. Arizona Cardinals (2-5)
15. New York Giants (2-6)
16. New Orleans Saints (1-7)

NFC South standings after Week 8​

The Carolina Panthers ran into a buzz saw and were blown out by the Buffalo Bills. The New Orleans Saints were dismantled and the Atlanta Falcons stubbed their toe in the afternoon. All three NFC South teams lost except the Bucs.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2)
2. Carolina Panthers (4-4)
3. Atlanta Falcons (3-4)
4. New Orleans Saints (1-7)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...icture-tampa-bay-buccaneers-move-up-with-help

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Notes and stats from the Buccaneers 23-3 win over the Saints

– Tampa Bay defeated the New Orleans Saints, 23-3, and have started 6-2 for the fifth time in team history and for the third time since 2020 (1979, 2002, 2020, 2021, 2025). The three points allowed by Tampa Bay were its fewest surrendered in a game since Week 18 of the 2023 season at Carolina (zero).

– The Buccaneers have now earned double-digit wins in each of their last four trips to New Orleans, marking just the second-such occurrence vs. New Orleans in NFL history (Chargers, 1977-1997). It was also the first time in franchise history that the Buccaneers have won four consecutive road games at New Orleans by any margin.

– Tampa Bay has won five consecutive NFC South contests for the first time since 2007. The Buccaneers 22-10 record (.688) in division games since 2020 is the third-best in the NFL behind only the Buffalo Bills (26-7) and the Kansas City Chiefs (25-7).

– Dating back to the 2021 season, the Buccaneers have held at least a share of the NFC South lead for 65 of the last 79 weeks.

– Tampa Bay recorded five sacks and four takeaways – the first time they have reached both of those marks in the same game since 9/18/22 at New Orleans. Since 2022, the Buccaneers are a perfect 6-0 vs. New Orleans when recording multiple sacks. Tampa Bay’s four takeaways in Week 8 are the team’s most in a single game since 12/24/23 vs. Jacksonville. Per ESPN research, Tampa Bay’s 15.0 sacks over its last three games are tied for the most over any three-game stretch in the past 25 years.

– Tampa Bay has five games this season with multiple takeaways – the most-such games in the NFL this season. The team’s four games with multiple takeaways and 3.0+ sacks are also the most in the NFL.

– The Buccaneers limited New Orleans to just 48 yards rushing – the fewest they have allowed in a game since Week 17 of last season (39).

– On the season, the Buccaneers defense ranks tied for first in defensive touchdowns (two), second in tackles for loss (50), tied for second in strip sacks (three), third in sacks (25.0), third in QB pressures (131), tied for third in takeaways (12), tied for third in fumble recoveries (five), tied for sixth in quarterback hits (48), tied for seventh in interceptions (seven), ninth in lowest opponent yards per play (5.2), tied for tenth in forced fumbles (six) and tied for tenth in passes defensed (36) through Sunday’s 4 p.m. games.

– Making his first start of the 2025 season, OLB Anthony Nelson recorded 2.0 sacks, a forced fumble and an interception return touchdown, becoming the first player since 2007 to reach each of these marks in a single game and just 1-of-3 players since at least 2000 to accomplish this feat.

– Nelson was the first player since Alex Highsmith (PIT, 9/18/23 vs. Cleveland) to record at least one sack, forced fumble and interception return touchdown in a game. Since data is available dating back to 1994, Nelson is the first Buccaneers player to record this stat line in a single game. He is the first player since Khalil Mack (CHI, 9/9/18 at GB) to record each a forced fumble, a sack and an interception return touchdown in a single half.

– Nelson’s interception and touchdown were each the first of his career, while he improved his career totals to 21.5 sacks and seven forced fumbles.

– Lavonte David picked up his first fumble recovery of the season and the 20th of his NFL career. Since 2000, only three NFL players have recorded 30+ forced fumbles and 20+ defensive fumble recoveries: David and Pro Football Hall of Famers Jason Taylor and Julius Peppers. He also led the team with 10 tackles, marking his 53rd career game with 10+ tackles.

– Jamel Dean knocked the ball free from Saints WR Rashid Shaheed, recording his second forced fumble of the season and the third of his career.

– Antoine Winfield Jr. scooped up the Dean forced fumble, marking the 10th of his NFL career. Since TruMedia data is available dating back to 2000, Winfield Jr. is just the 12thdefensive back with 10+ career forced fumbles and 10+ career fumble recoveries. All 11 other players on the list have played 116+ career games. Winfield Jr. has played 76.

Defensive Backs with 10+ Forced Fumbles and 10+ Fumble Recoveries Since 2000:

• Antoine Winfield Jr.
• Rondé Barber (Hall of Fame)
• Brian Dawkins (Hall of Fame)
• Ed Reed (Hall of Fame)
• Charles Woodson (Hall of Fame)
• Mike Adams
• Vonn Bell
• Dre’ Bly
• DeAngelo Hall
• Malcolm Jenkins
• Rodney McLeod
• Marcus Peters

– Winfield Jr. later picked off a Tyler Shough pass to secure his first interception of the season and the eighth of his career. Winfield Jr.’s two takeaways in Week 8 are tied for the most by any NFL player in a single game this season and the most by a Bucs player since he had two takeaways vs. Jacksonville on 12/24/23 (the first two takeaway game of Winfield Jr.’s career).

– Jacob Parrish recorded his second sack of the season, tying him for the most among all rookies. With two tackles for loss on Sunday, Parrish brought his season total to five, tying for the second-most among rookies and the most among all rookie defensive backs. Among rookies, Parrish also ranks tied for fourth in passes defensed (three) and tied for 10th in total tackles (37) through Sunday’s 4 p.m. games.

– LB SirVocea Dennis picked up his second sack of the season and the third of his career. Logan Hall and Markees Watts split a sack, improving their career totals to 9.5 and 1.5, respectively.

– Tykee Smith contributed eight tackles and one pass defensed. Through Sunday’s 4 p.m. games, Smith ranks 10th in the NFL in total tackles (66) and first among all defensive backs.

– Baker Mayfield completed 15-of-24 passes for 152 yards, earning a 80.6 passer rating and his 25th regular season win as starting quarterback of the Buccaneers, which broke a tie with Josh Freeman and Vinny Testaverde for the sixth-most in franchise history.

– Sean Tucker rushed 12 times for 42 yards, tallying his second rushing touchdown of the season and the fourth of his career. Three of Tucker’s five career touchdowns from scrimmage have come at the Caesars Superdome.

– Rookie WR Tez Johnson led the team with five receptions for 43 yards. He now has 40+ receiving yards in four consecutive games after having one reception for eight yards in his first three career games combined.

– TE Cade Otton caught four passes for 40 yards. Over the past four games, Otton has hauled in 20 receptions for 237 yards – the second-most receiving yards by a tight end in Weeks 5-8 behind only Oronde Gadsden II (323).

– Emeka Egbuka made three receptions for 35 yards and he continues to lead rookies in receiving yards (562) and receiving touchdowns (five). Despite being just eight games into his NFL career, Egbuka’s 562 receiving yards surpassed Kevin House (531 in 1980) and Mike Alstott (557 in 1996) for the seventh-most by a rookie in team history.

– Chase McLaughlin converted on field goal attempts of 52 and 55 yards and is now 7-for-7 on attempts of 50+ yards this season. His seven 50+ yard field goals are the most in the NFL this season.

– Among players with 30+ career field goal attempts from 50+ yards, McLaughlin’s 84.8 field goal percentage (39-of-46) from 50+ yards is the second-highest in league history, trailing only Dallas’ Brandon Aubrey.

– Riley Dixon punted three times for 151 yards (50.3 avg.), pinning one inside the 20-yard line, On the year, Dixon ranks tied for fourth with 12 punts pinned inside the 20.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-from-the-buccaneers-23-3-win-over-the-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Week 8 Top Performers at New Orleans Saints

Oftentimes, it did not come smoothly, but the Buccaneers still cruised by a bitter division rival in large part to a dominant defensive outing.

The Bucs logged four turnovers (one returned for a score but it should’ve been more), four sacks, five tackles for loss, and two fourth-down stops to go along with just 3 points allowed as they tallied their fourth consecutive double-digit victory over the Saints in New Orleans, a 23-3 showcase that clearly displayed how far apart the teams currently are on the competitive spectrum.

Despite dealing with a litany of injuries, traveling on a short week, and coming off a brutal loss, Tampa grinded its way to the win and a 6-2 start entering its bye, which ties the franchise’s best start for the fifth time. With one last brutal stretch coming out of the bye, starting with the resurgent New England Patriots, the Bucs can take the time to heal up and recalibrate their sputtering offense.

For now, let’s do some shoutouts before enjoying a one-week break.

Offensive Top Performer: RB Sean Tucker​

It has become clear that the wear and tear of so many injuries and rotating lineups has started to affect Baker Mayfield and Co., so this break should be much-needed after scoring just two offensive touchdowns in the last 8 quarters.

On a day when the offense mostly seemed focused on ball control, third-stringer Sean Tucker toted the rock pretty well. He led all rushers in the game with 12 carries for 42 yards and the Bucs’ only offensive score — serving as a final sledgehammer blow to a stout Saints defensive front that stoned Tampa from 1 yard line 7 times prior in this game alone.

Sean Tucker powers it in for the Bucs TD on 4th down

TBvsNO on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/dZ6uNf7eK3

— NFL (@NFL) October 26, 2025

It wasn’t quite his breakout performance against the Saints last year (192 total yards and 2 touchdowns), but it will do.

Rachaad White got dinged up early but still contributed positively (15 touches, 61 total yards), as did Tez Johnson by leading the team in receiving for the second straight week (5 catches for 43 yards). Not too much else to shout out in this one.

Defensive Top Performer: EDGE Anthony Nelson​

Sunday’s stars all belonged on defense, which was very refreshing to see after a fairly rough outing against fellow NFC contender Detroit.

But on a field full of big names, the best performer of them all was humble seven-year vet Anthony Nelson. Tasked to start with Haason Reddick injured, Nelson responded in resplendent fashion by single-handedly outscoring the Saints with a pass deflection and pick-six that gave the Bucs a lead they’d never give back.

ANTHONY NELSON PICK-6! WOW!

TBvsNO on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/bI9AhPHJtk

— NFL (@NFL) October 26, 2025

On top of that, he added a forced fumble to stop the Saints’ opening drive as well as 2 sacks and 4 total tackles. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more deserving guy for NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

That said, Antoine Winfield, Jr. definitely would’ve garnered a co-share of this very prestigious award if the officiating crew didn’t literally steal a touchdown from him — you could argue he should’ve had three touchdowns. We’re all still listening for the whistle. Regardless, Winfield dominated with 6 total tackles, the fumble recovery (there should’ve been a second one as well), and an interception.

Antoine Winfield Jr. rips the ball away for the INT! @Buccaneers ball!

TBvsNO on FOX/FOX Onehttps://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/mIAmm7DZbm

— NFL (@NFL) October 26, 2025

Really, the entire secondary played extremely well.

Jamel Dean again played lockdown coverage to continue his resurgent season, totaling 6 tackles and a forced fumble. Tykee Smith totaled 8 tackles, a QB pressure, and a pass defensed, and Zyon McCollum made 6 total tackles and came up with a pass defensed in the endzone. The rookies got in on the action as well with Jacob Parrish (5 tackles, 1 sack) and Ben Morrison (3 tackles, some standout pass coverage reps) contributing.

Special Teams Top Performer: K Chase McLaughlin​

When the playmakers are clunking along, it’s nice to have a kicker who doesn’t clunk any kicks himself.

McLaughlin helped finish several drives for the sputtering offense, with all 3 of his field goal makes coming from 50+ yards (long of 55) — he’s the only player this season to accomplish this feat thus far. All of those makes came in the second half to push the game out of reach, allowing the offense to play ball control and the defense to pin its ears back against green “rookie” Tyler Shough, who made his first significant regular-season appearance.

McLaughlin’s 8 makes from 50+ this season are the most in the NFL.

Riley Dixon also continued his recent string of success with a good day, averaging 50.3 yards on three punts with one pinned inside the 20 and another digging the Bucs deep out of their own territory.

We haven’t had to complain constantly about special teams for a few weeks, so hooray for that!

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...s-week-8-top-performers-at-new-orleans-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers vs Saints Week 8 Reactions

The Buccaneers are 6-2 thanks to a fantastic defensive effort in New Orleans as they beat the Saints 23-3. The offense never really got going, but four takeaways by the defense including a defensive score (even if it should’ve been two) would do the trick before the bye week.

Let’s see what social media had to say about the convincing win.

Have a day, Anthony Nelson​

Bucs linebacker Anthony Nelson had easily the best day of his career on Sunday and was all over the place with two sacks, a forced fumble and an incredible pick six where he tipped the pass to himself and took it in for the score.

Anthony Nelson just sent Spencer Rattler into the ground oh my pic.twitter.com/z1UgARmLlj

— Barstool Iowa (@BarstoolUIowa) October 26, 2025

It was nice to see Nelson have such a good day. He has played a smaller role on the Bucs defense so far this season, but with Haason Reddick being hurt he figures to play a bigger factor for Tampa Bay as Reddick heals up.

These Refs… Yikes​

I’m usually not one to heavily criticize officials often. I just have learned to accept that referees in sports will always be bad and leave a lot to be desired but this is getting embarrassing for the NFL. I’m not sure I have seen this much bad officiating in a season since I’ve started watching football. Not just with the Bucs games, but with almost every game. It seems like there are issues with bad calls every single game nowadays and Sunday was the latest example.

Tampa Bay forced a fumble and Antoine Winfield Jr picked it up and ran it in for a touchdown… or so we thought. After looking at it, the officials ruled that it was a fumble recovered by the Bucs but there was a whistle that blew the play dead and thus had Winfield down at the spot of the fumble. There is just one issue with that though… there was no whistle like, at all.

WHAT?!?! Refs blew a whistle (that no one heard) so this touchdown from the Bucs defense is called back… pic.twitter.com/eWaQPbxjWF

— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) October 26, 2025

This took a touchdown off the board for Tampa Bay and just a few plays later, the Saints would force a turnover and end up kicking a field goal before the half. Ultimately the play didn’t end up mattering in the end result of the game, but this is still unacceptable. That swing could have very well changed the entire game and it is because of the officials not being able to recognize that there was no whistle. No player stopped running during the play! The officials themselves were running with Winfield down the sideline! How can there suddenly be a whistle?

The league needs to take a long hard look at the officiating because it is becoming a bigger problem each week.

This Bucs defense might be legit​

Tampa Bay’s defense has really started to come around as of late. They have 10 takeaways in their last four games and while that pace likely is not sustainable, it is nice to see them making splash plays and even putting the ball in the endzone themselves.

This Bucs defense put on a show pic.twitter.com/0Fa2ekrEMO

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 26, 2025

Sure it wasn’t against the best of competition in the Saints, but they had success against solid offenses like the Lions and 49ers as well and the defense was the reason why that Detroit game wasn’t a complete blowout. They are really starting to get into a groove and hopefully that continues with a tough stretch coming up after the bye week.

Oh and by the way, quietly the Bucs are now a top 3 defense in the entire league by EPA/play https://t.co/Zo1vln6xnR pic.twitter.com/xggloV2Saa

— Bucs Juice (@BucsJuice) October 27, 2025

Being 6-2 at the bye week with the amount of injuries they have had is a great outcome. They are first in the NFC South and were actually the only team in the division to win on Sunday. With a tough three games coming up, these are the types of games you need to win and Tampa Bay did just that in New Orleans.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-bay-buccaneers-news/65987/buccaneers-vs-saints-week-8-reactions

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup Anthony Nelson dominates vs. Saints

Throughout the 2025 NFL season, SB Nation’s Doug Farrar will write about the game’s Secret Superstars — those players whose performances might slip under the radar for whatever reasons. In this installment, we turn our attention to Tampa Bay Buccaneers edge defender Anthony Nelson, who currently owns the city of New Orleans after what he did to the Saints on Sunday. It was a historic performance for a defense in need.

Before the 2025 season started, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles was less than happy about his overall pass rush, and the normally taciturn coach had a lot to say about it.

“It doesn’t reaffirm it,” Bowles said at the 2025 scouting combine, when asked whether the Philadelphia Eagles’ ability to demolish enemy quarterbacks without blitzing reaffirmed the importance of pressure without sending extra defenders. “We’ve been talking about it all year. We can cover guys, but when we don’t get there, sometimes it’s a problem and sometimes the quarterback got out of the pocket, and we did get there and the ball was out. I’m not saying it was all the time, but we just want to be able to do both.”

Last season, the Buccaneers blitzed on 34.2% of their snaps, which was the third-highest rate in the NFL, and their 24.3% pressure rate ranked ninth, which was the source of Bowles’ frustration. The 2025 Bucs are still working to turn it around; they have blitzed on just 26.9% of their snaps, and they’ve pressured opposing quarterbacks 18.4% of the time, which is about middle of the pack. As much of an adventurous blitzer as Bowles can be, like any other coach out there, he would prefer not to have to send extra guys just to get any pressure.

Sunday’s game against the then 1-6 New Orleans Saints seemed to be a relative walk in the park, but you know what they say about trap games… and with all the injuries Tampa Bay is dealing with right now, there’s always that concern. In the end, there wasn’t — the Bucs kicked the Saints to the curb, forcing the benching of starting quarterback Spencer Rattler in favor of rookie Tyler Shough, who fared no better.

New Orleans’ quarterbacks were sacked five time and pressured on 22 of their dropbacks in a 23-3 Bucs win, and Bowles was specifically happy that these Bucs rank third in the NFL with 25 sacks, behind only the Denver Broncos and the Los Angeles Rams, and not one of his defensive players has more than four quarterback takedowns on the season.

“It means they are starting to work together,” Bowles said on Monday of his pass-rush group. “They are working together, helping each other out, getting sacks and there [are] not any selfish sacks going on. People are setting people up, and people are taking double teams for other guys, and that is good to see.

“I like that we are getting home. [It] does not matter where they come from. If one guy has 40 sacks and everyone else has none, I am happy for that. As long as we can get the sacks, it really does not bother me where [they come] from.”

One of the unexpected sources against the Saints was veteran edge defender Anthony Nelson, who had his first start of the season while Haason Reddick was dealing with a sprained ankle and some knee soreness. Nelson, the 2019 fourth-round pick out of Iowa who is now on his third contract with the team after re-upping this past offseason to a two-year, $10 million deal with $5.5 million guaranteed, led the way in all possible ways.

Nelson has been a fine and underrated pressure generator at times throughout his career, but Sunday’s game was entirely ridiculous. Not only did Nelson have two solo sacks and five total pressures, he also came up with a forced fumble and a pick-six in which he scored the rare trio of pass deflection/interception/touchdown return.

Rattler must have been wondering what kind of alien he was dealing with.

Tip it. Catch it. Score it.

Anthony Nelson did it all. pic.twitter.com/TXbESxohmm

— NFL (@NFL) October 26, 2025

Nelson became the fourth player in recorded NFL history to come up with two sacks, a forced fumble, and a pick-six in the same game, which is quite the note for one’s resume.

“You definitely get into that zone and a lot of it has to do with the guys around you,” Nelson said postgame. “We have a lot of guys going after the ball, getting strips and punching out and some that were close that ended up being incompletions, so when everybody is doing it, it gets contagious and you can feel it. It gives you confidence.”

Anthony Nelson of the @Buccaneers became the fourth player in NFL history (as long as data has been available) to record two sacks, a forced fumble, and a pick-six in the same game.

A rather pleasant Sunday, as long as you weren't the @Saints. pic.twitter.com/8IePj4aGxo

— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) October 27, 2025

The 6-2 Bucs now have a much-needed bye; an extra week for everybody to get healthy (or at least healthier). Bowles said on Monday that the hope is that Reddick will be ready for the team’s next game against the New England Patriots on November 9.

But if Reddick isn’t? Well, it’s good to have a backup who’s coming off a career performance in which he single-handedly housed an entire NFL offense.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ackup-haason-reddick-stats-new-orleans-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Anthony Nelson, Chase McLaughlin earn Player of the Week honors

The National Football League today announced that Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week, and outside linebacker Anthony Nelson was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 8. They are the first set of teammates in 2025 to win Player of the Week honors in the same week, and the first set of Tampa Bay teammates to do so since Derrick Brooks and Matt Bryant in 2008 (Week 4). Tampa Bay’s four Player of the Week awards in 2025 are the most in the NFL.

In Tampa Bay’s 23-3 win over the division-rival New Orleans Saints, McLaughlin converted all three of his field goal attempts of 52, 54 and 55 yards, and both of his extra point attempts. With his performance, he is 1-of-2 kickers this season with three made field goals of 50+ yards in a single game (Chris Boswell, Week 8) and just 1-of-4 players since 2020 to do so in a single half.

On the season, McLaughlin leads the league with eight made field goals of 50+ yards and ranks tied for second in total field goals made (17) and third in points by a kicker (67). McLaughlin ranks second in NFL history in career field goal percentage on kicks of 50+ yards (40-of-47, 85.1%), trailing only Brandon Aubrey (29-of-32, 90.6%). He is a perfect 8-for-8 from that distance this season. Since arriving in Tampa Bay, McLaughlin ranks top five in points scored (331), field goals made (76), total field goal percentage (90.5%) and field goal percentage from 50+ yards (88.5%).

Nelson compiled four tackles (two for loss), 2.0 sacks, two quarterback hits, a forced fumble and an interception returned for a touchdown for a Tampa Bay defense that scored more points (six) than it allowed (three). Nelson became the first player since 2007 to have 2.0 sacks, a forced fumble and an interception return touchdown in a single game, and just 1-of-3 players since 2000 to accomplish that feat. Earning his first sack, his forced fumble, and his interception return touchdown all in the opening half, Nelson became the first player since Khalil Mack (with Chicago, 9/9/18 at Green Bay) to record this stat line all in a single half.

Making his first start of the season, Nelson was the only defender with a touchdown in Week 8, and among all NFC defensive players, he tied for first in sacks (2.0), interceptions (one) and forced fumbles (one), while tying for second in tackles for loss (two).

(Courtesy of the Buccaneers Communications Department.)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...ase-mclaughlin-earn-player-of-the-week-honors

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers Reacts Survey Week 9

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Buccaneers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/general/66006/buccaneers-reacts-survey-nfl-week-9

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Week 8 Game Recap: Buccaneers’ defense finds their footing in big win versus Saints

First Quarter:​

Buccaneers’ fans’ first facetime with Baker Mayfield came with 12:13 first quarter, following a forced fumble by Anthony Nelson. Nelson, in his first starting action of the season, instantly found the football and gave Tampa Bay the game’s first swing of momentum. Josh Grizzard quickly featured Rachaad White who got to running and then got to watching his team get to punting. Another Saints drive and another Tampa Bay stop. The Bucs’ next drive would carry them across midfield and into the second quarter.

Second Quarter:​

The Buccaneers would take that drive all the way down to the one-yard line of the Saints. A great drive until— It wasn’t. The Buccaneers worked their way all the way down the field to end zone, but failed to work their way into it. A one-yard, back to the end zone, goal-line-stand by the Saints’ defense kept the scoreboard blank for both teams.

Most Bucs’ fans scouring the injury report may have been upset to see that Haason Reddick would not be participating in Sunday’s contest in New Orleans, however, that tone would quickly change when it became clear Anthony Nelson would be having a career day. With a forced fumble and a sack already stacked on his stat sheet, Nelson added a pick-six as he intercepted Spencer Rattler, threw the thrower out of his way, and waltzed into the end zone. 7-0, Buccaneers.

Tampa’s next highlight reel play would be reeled in by the game’s officials. Jamel dean with a punch at the ball would force another fumble. With a loose ball on the ground, Antoine Winfield Jr. treated Bucs’ fans to a scoop and score. 14-0, Buccaneers— Until, it wasn’t. Upon further review, a rogue whistle called the play back because although the ruling on the field of a fumble was correct an official had blown his whistle, preventing the ball from being advanced. 14-0 remained 7-0 and would stay 7-0 because the only first half highlights Baker Mayfield would find himself from that point forward was highlight play for New Orleans’ pass rush— A strip sack and subsequent recovery by Chase Young to set the Saints up for their first points of the game. 7-3, Tampa Bay.

Third Quarter:​

The Bucs’ offense had arguably (with consideration given to the opponent) its worst half of the season in Sunday’s opening thirty minutes. The group was determined to re-write that story in the game’s second thirty. Tampa Bay, with Baker Mayfield seemingly finding his groove or perhaps a just a groove inside of his current rut, Took the Buccaneers into the end zone for Cade Otton touchdown— Until, it wasn’t. An official review rerouted the Buccaneers out of the end zone and back towards their kryptonite— The one-yard line. One play, two plays, three plays, and finally a Sean Tucker touchdown. 14-3, Buccaneers.

Tampa Bay did add another three points to their total, however, the third quarter’s main headline will be the benching of Spencer rattler for rookie Tyler Shough. Saints’ fans hoping to see Shough line up as the team’s savior had to endure their first indignity. Shough wasted no time finding Tampa’s primary ball hawk, Antoine Winfield Jr. for his first career interception on his first career drive.

Fourth Quarter:​

The fourth quarter of Sunday afternoon’s game against the Saints will not be remembered for its scoring. The final fifteen began with Tampa Bay going up plus three on another Chase McLaughlin field goal and as the game ticked into its final 10 minutes Tampa ticked three more points on the board. 23-3, Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay would pull their starters, sustain their 20-point lead, and finish week eight as the only NFC South team to add a tally in the win column. 5-2, first place in the NFC South and a bye week on the horizon.

For more Bucs coverage check us out here:

@Will_Walsh_NFL(X)

@Bucs_Nation(X)

@Will_Walsh_NFL(YouTube)

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/tampa-ba...-finds-their-footing-in-big-win-versus-saints

 

[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]

Buccaneers at Saints: 2025 NFL Week 8 Open Thread, Staff Picks, and Inactives

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are on the road this week as they are set to play the New Orleans Saints.

Tampa Bay will be without Chris Godwin, Bucky Irving, and Haason Reddick. You can see the rest of the inactives here.

Kickoff is set for 4:05 PM EST. Enjoy each other’s company in the comments section!

Staff game picks and score predictions​

Gil Arcia (6-1): Bucs 24, Saints 16
Mike Kiwak (5-2): Bucs 35, Saints 14
Evan Wanish (6-1): Bucs 26, Saints 20
Will Walsh (6-1): Bucs 31, Saints 16

Source: https://www.bucsnation.com/game-day...-nfl-week-8-open-thread-staff-picks-inactives