2024-10-14 15:10:03
Rattler was 22 of 40 for 243 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, both in the second half. Running back Alvin Kamara had 13 carries for 40 yards with a 4-yard touchdown run, the 60th of his career. Rookie receiver Bub Means had his first reception, his first touchdown catch (10 yards in the second quarter) while catching five catches for 45 yards. The Saints used their fourth combination at offensive line with the absence of guard/center Lucas Patrick. Connor McGovern started in his place. The run game was a struggle, the longest run was a 16-yard scramble by Rattler, and pass protection became an issue in the second half.
Paulson Adebo, Johnathan Abram and Cameron Jordan had interceptions for the Saints while linebacker Willie Gay had a sack. But it wasn’t enough to stop Mayfield and the Bucs. The former No. 1 overall draft pick was 24 of 36 for 325 yards with four touchdown passes and the three interceptions. Sean Tucker had 14 carries for 136 yards while Bucky Irving added 81 yards on 14 carries. They each had a touchdown. It is the fifth time in franchise history the Saints have given up 50 or more points. The 594 yards is the second most the Saints have given up in franchise history.
The Bucs, playing for the first time in 10 days, practiced all week at Tulane to escape the impact of Hurricane Milton, which hit the Tampa Bay area. The Saints, who entered this week on short rest after the Monday night game, have an even shorter week as they host the Denver Broncos on “Thursday Night Football” at the Caesars Superdome. The Broncos (3-2) are playing the Los Angeles Chargers at 3:05 p.m. Sunday.
