The New Orleans Saints are set to face off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their final game of the season on January 5, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium. With an overall record of 5-11, the Saints enter this matchup seeking respect, while the Buccaneers, with a 9-7 record, have their eyes on clinching the NFC South division title. A win for Tampa Bay or a loss by the Atlanta Falcons to the Carolina Panthers will secure the division for them.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield has been a standout for the Buccaneers this season, currently ranking third in the NFL with 39 passing touchdowns and accumulating 4,279 passing yards along with a solid rating of 107.6. As per the betting odds, the Buccaneers are favored by 14.5 points, with a moneyline of -1429 for Tampa Bay and +842 for New Orleans. The total points over/under is set at 44.5.
In terms of injuries, the Saints have several key players listed as inactive, including quarterback Derek Carr (hand), linebacker Willie Gay Jr. (shoulder), and running back Alvin Kamara (groin). Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler is expected to start for New Orleans once again, having to navigate a challenging defense with limited offensive starters available. Additionally, this game might mark the end of the road for veterans Cam Jordan, Tyrann Mathieu, and Demario Davis, although there’s a possibility they could return next season. Predictions suggest a final score of Saints 17, Buccaneers 31.
