The Tampa Bay Buccaneers began their media Zoom calls from Louisiana after evacuating Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton, shifting their focus to their Week 6 divisional matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
The team faces a pivotal contest as they look to bounce back from a 36-30 overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Despite the setback, the Bucs remain tied for first in the NFC South with a 3-2 record.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield
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Quarterback Baker Mayfield addressed the unique challenges the team faced after evacuating due to Hurricane Milton, emphasizing his appreciation for the Glazer family.
“First things first, I wanted to make sure everybody is safe,” said Mayfield. “With the help of the Glazer family we were able to relocate here, which was huge. They provided travel for the team and your family members and pets as well. That’s big time. Short memory when it comes to the Atlanta game, obviously had to watch the tape Monday to correct things we needed to and then move forward.”
Mayfield also reflected on the loss to Atlanta, acknowledging missed opportunities.
“Looking back at the tape, we executed well in the first half. I think we should have had 28 instead of 24.” Said Mayfield. “Then looking at the second half, just being very very close to some of these plays being successful, and instead they weren’t. In a tight ball game against a divisional opponent, the game can shift just like it did.”
Meanwhile, the Saints are grappling with the absence of quarterback Derek Carr, who suffered an oblique injury in Week 5. Rookie Spencer Rattler will be under center for New Orleans, adding intrigue to this NFC South showdown. A win could secure Tampa Bay sole possession of the division lead if the Falcons falter against the Panthers.
With both teams vying for playoff positioning, the Buccaneers are determined to use this game as a springboard toward solidifying their spot atop the NFC South.
