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Alf’s Buccaneers vs Saints Preview

October 26, 2025

In the NFC South, few matchups generate as much intensity as a Buccaneers vs Saints game. This Sunday at the Caesars Superdome, Tampa Bay faces its eternal divisional rival in a game that comes with the usual emotional and sporting charge: rivalry, the need to consolidate the season, and, in the case of the Bucs, managing an injured list that has changed the game plan.

Looking Over the Edge

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) visit the New Orleans Saints (1-6) in a key matchup before the bye. The schedule and the need to maintain the divisional pulse make the game more than just a game: it’s a score that can define the rhythms of the second half of the season. The organization and coaches have warned of the challenge of playing in the Superdome.

Headwinds

The most important news ahead is Mike Evans‘ injury: the team announced that Evans suffered a broken clavicle (collarbone) in the game against Detroit and has been placed on the injured list (IR). The injury will require surgery, and according to club and media reports, his return this season is unlikely or, at best, projected for the end of the year if his recovery progresses optimally. This seriously jeopardizes his historic streak of 1,000+ yard seasons.

In addition to Evans, the list of injured players for the game includes Chris Godwin (out) and Bucky Irving (out), among other players listed on Friday’s medical report; the staff has confirmed that several starters will be limited or out for Sunday’s game. The team moved roster members (promotions from the practice squad) to address the shortage.

Tactical Approach

With Evans out, Tampa Bay’s offense needs to regroup. In concrete terms:

Priority 1 — Possession Control and Third Down: Drive length and ball protection will be essential to prevent the defense from becoming worn down. Bowles and the staff have emphasized the importance of efficiency on third down.
Priority 2 — Reorient the passing game: Emeka Egbuka, and the young receivers will have to assume expanded roles. The plan will include more intermediate routes and tight end resources.
Priority 3 — Ground Control: Keep Rachaad White productive to manage the clock and reduce pressure on Baker Mayfield. Season stats show the importance of the ground game in Tampa’s victories.

Duel of the Gunslingers

Baker Mayfield vs. Spencer Rattler. Rattler is New Orleans’ starting quarterback, with mobility and the ability to connect on the long ball with Olave and Shaheed. His season has shown positive points but also recent interceptions. Bowles has highlighted Rattler’s mobility and arm as factors to monitor. For his part, Mayfield must remain calm, avoid turnovers, and punish the Saints’ defense where it shows weakness.

Defensive Keys for the Buccaneers

Avoid big plays: Tampa has given up explosive plays in some weeks; closing them out is a must in the Superdome.
Coordinated pressure: Collapse the pocket and limit Rattler’s mobility without leaving gaps in coverage. Vita Vea and the interior rotation will be crucial.
Forcing errors: Generating turnovers can change the course of a match in such a noisy setting.

Captain’s Verdict

Without Mike Evans and with Chris Godwin out for the game, the Bucs face a test of roster depth and tactical adaptability. If the offensive line protects and the running game dictates the pace, Tampa can win in the Superdome based on control and defense; if the offense can’t move the chains, the game will be difficult. Based on previous meetings and the current state of both rosters:

Prediction: Buccaneers 23 — Saints 7

Players to Watch

Baker Mayfield: Game management and pressure handling.
Emeka Egbuka / Tez Johnson: Increased target volume in the absence of Evans and Godwin.
Rachaad White: Tempo control and ground production.
Antoine Winfield Jr. / Vita Vea: Leaders in big-play containment and interior control.

Summary

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) at New Orleans Saints (1-6) — Sunday, October 26, 4:05 pm ET — Caesars Superdome. Head referee: Ron Torbert. House favorite: Buccaneers (-4.5), Over/Under: 46.5.