Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints: Where to watch live, probable lineups, and game details

This Sunday, October 13, 2024, NFL fans will witness one of the most anticipated matchups of the season: Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints. The game, part of Week 6 of the NFL, will take place at the iconic Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. With kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM ET, the clash will be broadcast live on Fox Sports, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams.

Team context before the showdown

The 2024 season has been marked by ups and downs for both teams. The Buccaneers, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield, come into the game with a 3-2 record and are looking to solidify their position at the top of the division. Meanwhile, the Saints, under the command of Derek Carr, are seeking to bounce back from a rough start to the season, with a 2-3 record and the pressure mounting after three consecutive losses.

This game could be a turning point for both franchises, as it directly impacts their standings in the NFC South. Historically, recent matchups between the Buccaneers and Saints have been tight, with Tampa Bay winning three of the last five encounters. However, New Orleans has a solid home record, which could work to their advantage.

Probable lineups

Fans can expect a closely fought game, with big names on both sides ready to shine. For the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield has had a solid season so far, throwing 11 touchdowns with just two interceptions. Wide receiver Mike Evans continues to be a key target, leading the team in receptions and yards. The return of important defensive players like safety Antoine Winfield Jr. will also bolster the team.

On the Saints’ side, Alvin Kamara is the go-to offensive weapon. In five games, the running back has accumulated 388 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns. Derek Carr, however, will need to improve his consistency after a shaky start, having thrown four interceptions so far this season. On defense, the Saints rely on a strong unit led by linebacker Demario Davis and safety Tyrann Mathieu.

Here are the probable lineups for the game:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

• Quarterback: Baker Mayfield
• Running Back: Rachaad White (questionable due to injury)
• Wide Receivers: Mike Evans, Chris Godwin
• Tight End: Cade Otton
• Defensive End: Calijah Kancey
• Safety: Antoine Winfield Jr. (returning from injury)

New Orleans Saints:

• Quarterback: Derek Carr
• Running Back: Alvin Kamara
• Wide Receivers: Michael Thomas, Rashid Shaheed
• Tight End: Juwan Johnson
• Linebacker: Demario Davis
• Safety: Tyrann Mathieu

Key factors to watch

One of the major talking points will be the battle between the defenses. The Buccaneers, despite giving up significant yardage in the air, have excelled at forcing turnovers, with six takeaways so far this season. The return of players like Winfield Jr. will likely boost Tampa Bay’s ability to pressure the Saints’ offense.

Meanwhile, the Saints’ defense has been solid against both the pass and the run, which could make life difficult for Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offensive unit. New Orleans also has a positive turnover margin (+3), which could play a crucial role in this evenly matched contest.

Another factor to keep an eye on is each team’s ability to close out games. The Buccaneers struggled with late-game management, particularly in their recent loss to the Falcons, while the Saints have had difficulties turning opportunities into points, especially in the closing stages of games.

Recent matchups: A timeline of results

Here’s a brief look at the recent history between these two teams:

• 2023, Week 17: New Orleans Saints 23-13 Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Saints win.
• 2023, Week 8: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-17 New Orleans Saints – Buccaneers win.
• 2022, Week 2: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-10 New Orleans Saints – Buccaneers win.
• 2021, Week 8: New Orleans Saints 36-27 Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Saints win.
• 2020, NFC Playoffs: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30-20 New Orleans Saints – Buccaneers win.

Expectations for the game

With both teams aiming to secure better playoff chances, Sunday’s game promises to be intense and strategic. The clash between the offensive stars and the defensive units might result in a low-scoring game, where small mistakes could turn the tide. Tampa Bay arrives with confidence after some strong victories, but the Saints, playing in front of their home crowd, have the momentum to make a statement.

All eyes will be on key players like Mayfield and Kamara, both of whom are critical to their teams’ success. Additionally, the defenses’ performances, especially in creating turnovers, could be decisive in the outcome.

Where to watch and additional details

Fans can catch the game live on Fox Sports, with kickoff set for 1:00 PM ET. For those unable to watch on TV, online streaming options are also available to follow the action as it unfolds.

This matchup not only serves as a classic NFC South rivalry but could also be pivotal in determining the postseason trajectory for both teams. With so much at stake, it’s a game NFL fans won’t want to miss.