A heated altercation occurred during a crucial Week 18 matchup in the NFL, as the New Orleans Saints faced off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The confrontation started in the second half when Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield took a hard hit from Saints safety Will Harris after a failed scramble. At the time, the Buccaneers were trailing 16-6, and Mayfield's late slide prompted an angry exchange with Harris, escalating into a brawl that saw punches thrown.

The scuffle seemed to energize Tampa Bay, as they responded by driving down the field, culminating in a touchdown pass from Mayfield to Payne Durham, narrowing the deficit to 16-13. With playoff implications hanging in the balance, the Buccaneers needed a win to secure the NFC South title, while a loss would allow the Atlanta Falcons to claim the division and the final playoff spot in the NFC.

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz exited the game against the New Orleans Saints due to concussion symptoms after a hard hit while making a catch.

The incident occurred during a play that contributed to a touchdown pass, but Ertz was ruled out shortly after walking to the locker room. He had been a key player for the Commanders this season, making significant contributions prior to his injury.

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz exited the game against the New Orleans Saints due to concussion symptoms after a hard fall while making a catch. The incident occurred during a play that set up a touchdown pass from Jayden Daniels to Terry McLaurin, giving the Commanders a 14-0 lead.

Ertz, in his 13th NFL season, had been a key player for Washington, ranking as the second-leading receiver with 52 catches for 501 yards and four touchdowns before his injury.

The New Orleans Saints have confirmed that four players will miss their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons due to injuries. Wide receiver Cedrick Wilson, cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, wide receiver Chris Olave, and offensive guard Lucas Patrick are all ruled out after failing to practice throughout the week.

Several other players, including defensive back J.T. Gray and running back Jamaal Williams, are listed as questionable. Interim coach Darren Rizzi indicated that safety Will Harris and offensive guard Shane Lemieux are likely to play, but the team will need to make adjustments to their roster to accommodate their return from injured reserve.

The New Orleans Saints have decided to start rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following Derek Carr's oblique injury. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak informed Rattler of the decision, emphasizing preparation and teamwork.

Rattler expressed excitement for the opportunity while acknowledging the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Carr's injury. He feels confident in the game plan and has received support from teammates and former Saints player Archie Manning.