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Linebacker Nephi Sewell produces first NFL sack in most productive game for New Orleans Saints

Blake Grupe made all four field-goal attempts in season finale

Check out the game action photos from the New Orleans Saints game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for Week 18 of the 2024 NFL Season on Jan. 5, 2025 at Raymond James Stadium.
Check out the game action photos from the New Orleans Saints game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for Week 18 of the 2024 NFL Season on Jan. 5, 2025 at Raymond James Stadium.

Tampa, Fla. – Many of the things necessary to do to win, the New Orleans Saints did in the first half Sunday against the Buccaneers. Many of the things necessary to do to lose, they did in the second half.

Unfortunately for New Orleans, it did more of the latter than the former in a 27-19 loss at Raymond James Stadium to close out the season. But a few points stood out.

OFFENSE: Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler is going to have to figure out how to be more productive over the course of four quarters. It's not all his fault, of course, but the nature of the position is that it receives excessive criticism and praise. Rattler and the offense were less than pedestrian in the second half, when he completed five of 14 passes for 59 yards. But in the first half he showed more of the potential that flashed a few times this season, when he completed 21 of 28 passes for 181 yards and a touchdown. His pocket presence must improve, but he has something to build on.

DEFENSE: Linebacker Nephi Sewell was named the Ed Block Courage Award winner by his teammates after making his comeback following a torn ACL. He tore the ligament in Week 17 last season against Tampa Bay, and on Sunday he produced his first career sack in his most extensive playing time. He finished with eight tackles, two tackles for loss and a quarterback hit and filled in well in the absences of Pete Werner and Willie Gay Jr.

SPECIAL TEAMS: Blake Grupe finished out a stellar second season by making all four field-goal attempts, including a long kick of 49 yards. He made 27 of 31 field goals for the season and solidified his standing.

Check out the game action photos from the New Orleans Saints game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for Week 18 of the 2024 NFL Season on Jan. 5, 2025 at Raymond James Stadium.

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