Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
Although the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be without two top pass-catching options at wide receiver, the recent return of receiver Chris Godwin Jr. will draw ample attention from the New Orleans Saints’ defense.
The versatile wideout will challenge one of the Saints’ most versatile defenders in a matchup that is one of the three most important to watch as the Saints travel to take on the Buccaneers Sunday.
Bucs WR Chris Godwin Jr. vs. Saints CB Alontae Taylor
The matchup between these two players in the slot is going to be a lot of fun to watch. Godwin will match up with other Saints cornerbacks as well, but when he’s in the inside of the formation, Taylor will be his draw.
The two are physical and athletic specialists at their positions. Yards and receptions will likely pile on, but the battle between these two at the ball and after the catch is sure to have an impact this weekend.
Last week against the Arizona Cardinals, Godwin took 23 snaps from the slot while taking 17 from outside. There’s sure to be some volume for these two.
Saints DE Chase Young vs. Bucs LT Tristan Wirfs
Wirfs is questionable going into this game, making the left tackle matchup an important one no matter who lines up there. Since returning to the lineup, Young’s defense ranks top-five against the pass and top-10 overall. His impact as a pass rusher has him ranked No. 2 on the team with five sacks.
When he’s not opening up opportunities for himself, he’s creating a path to the quarterback for others. The Saints’ best way to win this game will be through its defense. Young’s disruption is sure to be a key element Sunday.
Saints’ OL vs. Bucs’ DL
On the other side, the Saints’ life in this Game centers around its offensive line. Without its starting center, left guard and right tackle in this game, New Orleans’ offensive line has to find a way to manage an aggressive and destructive defensive front.
Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough has done a great job managing pressure this season, a vast improvement from his collegiate days, but is a far better producer when kept clean. Shough’s highlight reel is already making the rounds. If the Saints would like to see it added to, protecting him is the most important next step.
Tyler Shough propaganda pic.twitter.com/eVJblyQtft
— Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) December 3, 2025
Also, paving the way for the run game has been far from a strength for New Orleans. With right tackle Taliese Fuaga ruled out this week, things won’t get any easier. But it’s a necessary part of the game that New Orleans must figure out as soon as possible. The Saints have fallen short of 90 rushing yards in eight of its 12 games this season.
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