The New Orleans Saints face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a pivotal matchup that can essentially end the Saints season. That alone stresses how important this game is. Unfortunately, the key matchups in this game lean the direction of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Overcoming the edge will be paramount to winning the showdown.
It’s the most important game since last week. New Orleans didn’t show up a week ago. If they want to save their season, the team will come in to this game prepared to win these
1
Tampa Bay pass rush vs. Saints offensive line
This could be the matchup that defines this game. Tampa Bay is top-10 in sacks. Derek Carr has not been effective under pressure this year. If the Saints can’t keep him clean, it’ll be tough for them to mount any consistent offense. Pressure is the reason Alvin Kamara had 13 catches in the first showdown between these two teams. The Buccaneers rushed Carr into quick decisions and a lot of checkdowns.
2
Devin White and Lavonte David vs. Alvin Kamara
Speaking of Kamara, the speed of Tampa Bay’s linebackers gives him fits. The addition of Devin White gave Tampa two linebackers with high lateral ability and Kamara has struggled in most games since then. For example, Kamara’s 13 catches in Week 4 only resulted in 33 yards due to the linebackers’ ability to run sideline to sideline.
3
Paulson Adebo vs. Mike Evans
The Saints have an officiating crew that calls a lot of penalties this week. Evans and Adebo are both physical players. That battle typically goes to the offensive player. This has been a part of Adebo’s game that has plagued him early in his career. Penalties aside this is going to be a tough matchup for the Saints secondary.
4
Saints wide receivers vs Buccaneers defensive backs
This matchup is primarily about the receivers versus the cornerbacks, however safety Antoine Winfield Jr. must be added to the mix due to how much the Saints attempt to stretch the field. Designing routes to get open quickly with room to run is important Sunday.
