Saints vs. Buccaneers 2024: NFC South Showdown in 2024
The New Orleans Saints and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have developed one of the fiercest rivalries in the NFC South, with both teams often vying for division supremacy. Over the past few years, the dynamic has shifted dramatically—from the days of legendary quarterbacks Drew Brees and Tom Brady leading their teams into battle, to a new era where both franchises are adjusting to life after their Hall of Famers.
As the 2024 season unfolds, this Saints vs. Buccaneers matchup is once again pivotal in shaping the division race. With both teams undergoing significant changes, the rivalry is now defined by new faces, strategic coaching, and hungry rosters looking to regain control of the NFC South. This game could have a huge impact on the playoff race, as both teams look to secure critical wins within the division.
New Orleans Saints: A New Era with Derek Carr
The Saints are in the midst of an exciting transition as they begin a new era with veteran quarterback Derek Carr at the helm. After an impressive stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr joined the Saints in 2023, bringing stability and experience to a position that has been in flux since the retirement of Drew Brees. His leadership has been key in helping New Orleans remain competitive, and he has quickly become the face of the franchise.
Surrounding Carr is a talented offense led by running back Alvin Kamara, one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league. Kamara’s ability to both run the ball and catch passes out of the backfield makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Wide receiver Chris Olave, who had a breakout rookie season in 2022, continues to develop into a top-tier target, while veteran wideout Michael Thomas looks to regain his All-Pro form after battling injuries in recent seasons.
Defensively, the Saints remain one of the most formidable units in the league. With stars like defensive end Cameron Jordan and linebacker Demario Davis anchoring the front seven, and a talented secondary led by Marshon Lattimore, the Saints’ defense has the ability to disrupt any offense they face. In a division matchup against the Buccaneers, the defense will play a crucial role in dictating the pace of the game and limiting big plays.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rebuilding Post-Tom Brady
The Buccaneers are also in a transitional phase following the retirement of Tom Brady after the 2022 season. With Brady gone, Tampa Bay has had to reimagine its identity and figure out the direction of the franchise moving forward. In 2024, the Bucs are relying on quarterback Baker Mayfield, who brings his fiery competitiveness and leadership to a team looking to remain competitive in the NFC South.
Mayfield, who joined the Buccaneers in 2023, is aiming to prove he can be a long-term solution at quarterback. Though his career has had ups and downs, he has shown flashes of brilliance and has the opportunity to rejuvenate his career in Tampa. He has weapons to work with, including the dynamic wide receiver duo of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, both of whom are capable of making big plays and providing veteran stability to the offense. Running back Rachaad White is emerging as a dual-threat option, giving the Bucs balance in both the running and passing game.
Tampa Bay’s defense, long a strength of the team, remains formidable with stars like linebacker Lavonte David, edge rusher Shaquil Barrett, and cornerback Carlton Davis. Under head coach Todd Bowles, a defensive mastermind, the Bucs’ defense is built to create pressure and force turnovers. In a matchup against the Saints, this defense will be key to slowing down Derek Carr and disrupting New Orleans’ offensive rhythm.
Key Matchups to Watch
Derek Carr vs. Buccaneers’ Secondary
Derek Carr’s ability to manage the game and make key throws downfield will be tested by the Buccaneers’ talented secondary. Cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Jamel Dean will look to limit Carr’s options, particularly when targeting Chris Olave and Michael Thomas. Carr’s precision in the passing game and decision-making under pressure will be crucial to the Saints’ success.Baker Mayfield vs. Saints’ Pass Rush
Baker Mayfield will need to stay calm and composed in the face of New Orleans’ fierce pass rush, led by Cameron Jordan. The Saints have the ability to generate pressure without blitzing, making it critical for Mayfield to get the ball out quickly. If he’s unable to evade the rush, Tampa Bay’s offense could struggle to move the chains consistently.Alvin Kamara vs. Buccaneers’ Run Defense
Alvin Kamara’s versatility makes him one of the most dangerous players on the field, and Tampa Bay’s run defense, anchored by Vita Vea and Devin White, will have their hands full containing him. If Kamara can break free in the running and passing game, it will open up the Saints’ offense and make life difficult for the Buccaneers’ defense.Mike Evans vs. Marshon Lattimore
One of the marquee individual battles in this rivalry is the showdown between Mike Evans and Marshon Lattimore. These two have a history of intense matchups, with Lattimore often getting the better of Evans. However, Evans remains a big-play threat, and Mayfield will likely look his way often, especially in critical moments. Lattimore’s ability to contain Evans could swing the game in the Saints’ favor.
What’s at Stake?
For the Saints, this game is a critical step in their pursuit of an NFC South title. With Derek Carr providing stability at quarterback and a talented roster on both sides of the ball, New Orleans has legitimate playoff aspirations. A win over a division rival like Tampa Bay would solidify their status as the team to beat in the NFC South.
For the Buccaneers, a victory in this game would not only boost their confidence but also keep them in the hunt for a division title. While they are still adjusting to life without Tom Brady, the Bucs have enough talent to remain competitive, especially in a division that remains wide open. A strong performance from Baker Mayfield and the defense would send a message that Tampa Bay is still a force to be reckoned with.
Prediction: Saints vs. Buccaneers
This game has all the makings of a tightly contested NFC South battle. The Saints’ well-rounded roster and experience at key positions give them the edge, especially with Derek Carr’s steady leadership and the playmaking ability of Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave. However, the Buccaneers are no pushovers, and Baker Mayfield’s scrappy nature, combined with their defensive prowess, could keep things close.
Final Prediction: Saints 24, Buccaneers 20.
Expect a hard-fought game with plenty of big plays from both teams, but the Saints’ balanced attack and strong defense will likely prove too much for the Bucs to overcome.
Conclusion: The NFC South Heats Up
The Saints vs. Buccaneers rivalry is as heated as ever, and with both teams looking to re-establish dominance in the NFC South, this 2024 matchup is a critical one. The Saints are hoping to cement their place at the top of the division, while the Buccaneers are looking to prove they can thrive in the post-Brady era.
As these two teams clash, fans can expect an exciting game filled with intensity, big plays, and pivotal moments that could shape the direction of the NFC South race. Whether it’s Derek Carr leading the Saints’ offense or Baker Mayfield trying to pull off an upset, this game is a must-watch for any NFL fan.
