NFL

Saints vs Buccaneers: AI Prediction

January 2, 2025

Table of Contents

Our AI Picks have you covered for this game + many more

Preview of Saints vs Buccaneers AI Predictions

The New Orleans Saints fell to 5-11 after a 25-10 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders in their most recent game. The Saints held an early 7-3 lead in the second quarter but were outscored 22-3 the rest of the way, ultimately suffering a double-digit defeat. New Orleans was outgained 388-269 in total yardage, lost the turnover battle 2-0, and converted just 1-of-10 third-down attempts. Spencer Rattler threw for 218 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, while Juwan Johnson led the receivers with six catches for 66 yards.

This loss followed a pair of defeats: a 34-0 shutout by the Packers and a narrow 20-19 loss to the Commanders. The Saints have now dropped three straight games and four of their last five. They sit third in the NFC South, just one game ahead of the Carolina Panthers.

The Chicago Bears have two games remaining in what has been a disappointing season. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers improved to 9-7 on the season after a dominant 48-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Tampa Bay led 27-14 at halftime and shut out Carolina 21-0 in the second half to secure the blowout win. The Buccaneers outgained the Panthers 551-204 in total yardage, tied the turnover battle at zero, and converted an impressive 10-of-14 third downs. Baker Mayfield had a standout performance, throwing for 359 yards and five touchdowns, while Bucky Irving added 113 rushing yards on 20 carries.

Before this win, Tampa Bay narrowly lost to Dallas 26-24 but picked up a decisive 40-17 victory over the Chargers in the previous week. The Buccaneers have won five of their last six games and need another victory here to clinch the division title.

Saints Preview 

Offensively, New Orleans is averaging 19.9 points per game, with 203.8 passing yards and 118.1 rushing yards per contest. On defense, they’ve allowed an average of 23.2 points per game. Spencer Rattler has completed 55.9% of his passes this season, throwing for 1,077 yards, three touchdowns, and five interceptions.

Alvin Kamara, who is listed as questionable, has been a key contributor with 950 rushing yards, six touchdowns, and 68 receptions for 543 yards and two scores.

Buccaneers Preview 

Tampa Bay’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging 29.7 points per game with 252.6 passing yards and 147.3 rushing yards per contest. Defensively, they have allowed 22.9 points per game this season.

Baker Mayfield has been efficient, completing 71.7% of his passes for 4,279 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. Meanwhile, Bucky Irving has been a key contributor on the ground, rushing for 1,033 yards and seven touchdowns this year.

How I Use Rithmm Models for my Saints vs Buccaneers AI Prediction:

With Rithmm’s AI Picks model you are able to dive deep into just about any trend you can think of, below is just a snap shot of what I pulled for todays game. 

Team Trends:

  • Buccaneers
    • Tampa Bay has won five of its last six games, including a dominant 48-14 victory over Carolina in Week 17.
    • The Buccaneers are 9-3 against the spread (ATS) in their last 12 road games.
  • Saints:
    • New Orleans has lost three consecutive games and four of its last five, most recently falling 25-10 to Las Vegas.
    • The Saints are 4-10-1 ATS this season and have struggled to cover as significant underdogs.

Head-to-Head Trends:

  • The Saints have won four of their last five games against NFC opponents at home.
  • The Buccaneers are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as a road underdog.

Matchup Factors:

  • Buccaneers' Offense:
    • Quarterback Baker Mayfield has completed 71.7% of his passes for 4,279 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions this season.
    • Running back Bucky Irving has rushed for 1,033 yards and seven touchdowns.
  • Saints' Defense:
    • New Orleans has allowed an average of 23.2 points per game this season.

My Saints vs Buccaneers AI Prediction

The over is likely to hit in the Buccaneers-Saints game due to several key factors. Tampa Bay’s high-powered offense, averaging 29.7 points per game, is led by Baker Mayfield’s  efficiency and Bucky Irving’s production on the ground, making them capable of putting up big numbers. On the other side, the Saints’ defense, which has allowed 23.2 points per game, has struggled to contain strong offenses, while their own offense, though inconsistent, can contribute with playmakers like Alvin Kamara. 

A screenshot of a sports gameDescription automatically generated

Divisional matchups often feature high-intensity play and unpredictable swings, creating opportunities for explosive scoring. Additionally, with the Bucs needing a win to secure the division, they’re unlikely to let up, while the Saints may play aggressively to spoil their rival’s playoff hopes. Even if one team builds a lead, late-game scoring during garbage time could inflate the total, making the over a strong possibility.

  • The Buccaneers are averaging 29.7 points per game this season, fueled by Baker Mayfield's efficiency (71.7% completion rate, 39 TDs) and Bucky Irving's ability to dominate on the ground. With their offense firing on all cylinders, Tampa Bay has the potential to put up big numbers.
  • The Saints' defense has allowed 23.2 points per game this season and has struggled to contain dynamic offenses. Against a high-powered Bucs unit, it’s likely they’ll give up significant points.
  • While the Saints’ offense has been inconsistent, they’ve shown flashes of scoring ability, particularly when Alvin Kamara is involved. Spencer Rattler can exploit a Buccaneers defense that has allowed 22.9 points per game, keeping New Orleans competitive enough to contribute to the total.
  • With Tampa Bay needing a win to secure the division, the Buccaneers are unlikely to let up, potentially leading to a higher-scoring game. Meanwhile, the Saints may play aggressively to spoil their rival’s playoff hopes, creating more scoring opportunities on both sides.

Selection: Over 42.5 (-120)

If you’re looking for more Rithmms’ AI Picks you can check them out here.

If you’re looking we player prop info, Rithmm also has you covered! Check them out here.

Click here for more NFL Computer Picks!

More AI Predictions for NFL

This AI-driven analysis is just a glimpse of what you can expect when using Rithmm. Whether you’re looking to refine your betting strategy or want to explore in-depth data trends, Rithmm's AI tools for sports betting has all you need. Don't miss out on making more informed decisions—download the Rithmm app today for full access to our, AI Sports Picks, AI NFL predictions, NFL Computer Picks, and custom sports betting models.

More AI Sports Predictions

Ready to dominate with data-backed predictions?

Download Rithmm now and join the community of smart bettors. Access free AI sports predictions, AI player props, explore our subscription tiers, and unlock the full potential of Rithmm.

Download Now

Exclusive Offers

Special Offer

Bet $5 Get $150

Special Offer

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly!
See All Offers

Ready to dominate with data-backed predictions?

SCAN TO DOWNLOAD THE APP