Saints at Buccaneers: Key Match-Ups to Watch
By Bob Rose
Dec 28, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) catches a six-yard touchdown pass in front of New Orleans Saints defensive back Terrence Frederick (37) in the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
Saints Cornerback Delvin Breaux vs. Buccaneers Wide Receiver Mike Evans
Cornerback Delvin Breaux will likely be matched up against the top opposing wideout once again, in this case Tampa Bay stud Mike Evans.
Breaux is quite obviously not at 100% since his comeback from a broken leg suffered in Week #1. Two other “showdowns” that Breaux has faced led to a bit of a rough day for the second year corner.
Denver’s Demaryius Thomas and Detroit’s Golden Tate were both still their team’s leading pass catchers in games against New Orleans; although to be fair, Tate’s game-breaking 66 yard touchdown reception last week came due to a blown assignment by BW Webb and Vonn Bell.
Dec 6, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Delvin Breaux (40) against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Breaux has still maintained blanket coverage most of the time, but seems to be losing a number of 50/50 balls, either by giving up a key reception, or getting flagged for a penalty.
Nevertheless, teams do not seem to be hesitant this season about throwing in Breaux’s direction, and this is despite the Saints’ drop off in talent at the other cornerback positions.
If Tampa Bay quarterback Jameis Winston insists on going towards his favorite target Evans, as expected, Breaux needs to make plays to make the Buccaneers regret that decision.