On the surface, the Saints and Buccaneers don't have much to play for when they face off against each other in Tampa. Sitting atop the NFC South and in control of their own destiny just a week ago, New Orleans was knocked out of the postseason by a turnover-filled fourth quarter against Atlanta. Tampa Bay, winner of just two games in Lovie Smith's first season, has long been out of the playoff conversation.
Saints vs. Buccaneers 2014 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
The Buccaneers and Saints hope to finish the year on high notes.
Drew Brees will be looking to bounce back from a disastrous game against the Falcons, when he threw a back-breaking interception and coughed the ball up for an 86-yard Atlanta scoop 'n' score in the game's final two-and-a- half minutes. If his last outing against Tampa Bay is any indication, however, limiting turnovers won't be easy. Brees tossed three picks against the Bucs in Week 5, though the Saints overcame them for a gritty overtime win, 37-31.
Tampa Bay will attempt to close out the first season under Smith on a high note. The Buccaneers have lost five straight games heading into Week 17 and have failed to score more than 17 points in all but three games this season. For a roster undoubtedly headed for a shakeup, this will be many players’ last chance to prove they’re worth keeping around.
Of course, a loss against the Saints would ensure the Buccaneers the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 Draft. This in itself might be a high note given Tampa Bay’s struggles this season.
How to Watch
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
When: 1 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Announcers: Sam Rosen, Kirk Morrison
Online Streaming: Verizon NFL Mobile
Odds
New Orleans is listed as a 5.5-point road favorite with an over/under of 47, according to OddsShark.com.
Further Reading
To read more about the Saints, visit Canal St. Chronicles. For more on the Bucs, head on over to Bucs Nation.
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