Who Are REALLY the Saints’ Biggest NFC South Rivals?

Dec 13, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) makes a pass while pressured by New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. The New Orleans Saints won 24-17. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

#3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers came into the League in 1976, and as any older Saints fan can tell you, got their very first win as a franchise against the Saints in the Superdome in 1977 after an inglorious 0-26 start.

That embarrassing moment aside, the Saints have owned the series for the most part; and hold a 30-17 advantage in 47 total meetings.

Last season, the Bucs dealt the Saints a shocking defeat in Week #2, when the rookie quarterback Jameis Winston sauntered into the Superdome and proceeded to defeat the Saints on their own turf.

Adding insult to injury, Drew Brees was injured in the contest, and would be forced to miss the next game at Carolina, the first game Brees ever missed as a Saint.

Even with that egregious affront to the Saints’ pride, the Bucs only rank #3 because frankly, they haven’t been very good for a while.

Last season, they once again finished at the bottom of the NFC South standings and their head coach Lovie Smith was relieved of his coaching duties.

However, around the league there’s a general sentiment that the Buccaneers are on the rise, led by the improving Jameis Winston, coming into his second year, and the emergence of the big receiver Mike Evans.

With Doug Martin pounding the rock, this team could see a resurgence, and thrown some gasoline on the embers of this once-fierce rivalry.

Which leads us to…

Next: Kryptonite