There are two pivotal stats to watch in the New Orleans Saints versus Tampa Bay Buccaneers game, and they both boil down to passing efficiency.
The Saints defense’s greatest attribute through five games is their ability to take away the football. They are especially skilled at intercepting the quarterback. Tyrann Mathieu and Paulson Adebo lead the team with two picks each. The team’s 7 interceptions are third-most in the NFL, and they’ve yet to go a game without at least one takeaway through the air.
Baker Mayfield, on the other hand, protects the football very well. His 2 interceptions are tied for the fifth-fewest among all quarterbacks who have thrown 100 passes this season. It’s not like he’s barely throwing the football either. Mayfield averages a little more than 30 attempts per game.
In addition to protecting the football, Mayfield is one of just three quarterbacks with double -digit touchdown passes. The Saints have allowed one passing touchdown all year.
Something has to give, and it’ll be an interesting battle to watch. The Saints have effectively played bend-but-don’t-break football. If they let the Buccaneers get into the red zone, Tampa Bay will aim to throw it in the end zone. It’s vital the Saints keep them out of it.
