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Instant analysis from Saints’ season-ending loss vs. Bucs

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Instant analysis from Saints’ season-ending loss vs. Bucs

TAMPA, FLORIDA – JANUARY 05: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepares for the snap from Graham Barton #62 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter of the game against the ns at Raymond James Stadium on January 05, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

The Saints failed to match their first half performance for the second week in a row, giving up 21 points after allowing only 6 to start. The defense really struggled to contain Baker Mayfield in half No. 2, allowing him to extend plays in crucial situations. There were multiple “gotta-have-it” moments on third-and-long that the Saints let Mayfield carve them apart on the ground. This ultimately came as a result of countless missed opportunities for sacks while having Mayfield in the pocket. With extending drives, the Bucs were able to settle in and tire out the Saints defense a bit allowing them to dial up the passing game late.

Offensively for the Saints, they would only score 3 points in the second half and were never able to really find a groove. Multiple penalties halted drives putting them in third-and-long situations, never really giving them a chance. Execution also took a dip with the inability to prevent pressure and complete throws down the field.

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