New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler (18) carries past Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker J.J. Russell (51) on a keeper during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Chris O'Meara
The New Orleans Saints (1-6) play their first division game of the season when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) Sunday at Caesars Superdome. Here are the predictions from our staff.
**Jeff Duncan (Season record: 4-3)**
**Bucs 21, Saints 19:** Division games are always more competitive than you think going in, and the Bucs are playing without three of their best playmakers because of injuries. After the tough loss in Chicago and Baker Mayfield's incendiary comments this week, the Saints will be ready to play. I'm just not sure it will be good enough to pull off the upset.
**Zach Ewing (Season record: 4-3)**
**Bucs 20, Saints 13:** Injuries could hold back a Tampa Bay offense that has been impressive. It's the Buccaneers defense that has me worried for the Saints. With Erik McCoy missing from the offensive line and a Tampa Bay run defense that allows less than 4 yards per game, New Orleans is going to struggle to move the ball.
**Luke Johnson (Season record: 5-2)**
**Bucs 30, Saints 20:** The Buccaneers have been battling injury throughout the season and it hasn't really mattered much thanks to the play of quarterback Baker Mayfield. He's the difference in this game, because of his ability to escape pressure and connect on big plays downfield.
**Matthew Paras (Season record: 4-3)**
**Bucs 31, Saints 20:** The Buccaneers have a number of significant injuries but still have enough firepower to put up points on the Saints. Quarterback Baker Mayfield — an MVP candidate — has a lot to do with that, too.
**Rod Walker (Season record: 5-2)**
**Bucs 26, Saints 17:** The Saints finally get into division play. Unfortunately, they are getting the NFC South's best team, one that will be eager to get back on track after losing to the Detroit Lions on Monday night. Yeah, they lost receiver Mike Evans for likely the rest of the season, but they have plenty more weapons for Baker Mayfield.