Where do Bucs land in latest power rankings after win over Saints?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have one of the best records in the league following their 23-3 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 8. Sitting at 6-2, the Bucs are in total control of their own destiny the rest of the way as they head into their bye week with a stranglehold on the NFC South.
It hasn't been the prettiest getting to this point for Tampa Bay. They will use this bye week with the hopes of getting healthier for the back stretch of the season and will undoubtedly need to continue to be resilient if they want to continue being one of the top teams in the NFL.
Speaking of top teams in the NFL, NFL.com releases its power rankings following each week, and while many might have thought the Bucs would move up this week, they are staying put as the eighth-best team in the league, per NFL.com's Eric Edholm.
No shifting seas for Buccaneers
"Baker Mayfield didn’t throw or run for a touchdown, yet Tampa Bay still won in a relative laugher. It might have been the worst offensive showing of the season for the shorthanded Bucs -- and Mayfield and both looked less than fully healthy against the Saints -- but when you play that kind of defense, it doesn’t matter. Producing four takeaways (including an Anthony Nelson pick-six) and two fourth-down stops, the Bucs held the Saints out of the end zone and sent Spencer Rattler to the bench," wrote Edholm. "The bye should help in the health department, and though three straight tough games await Tampa on the other side, this team has shown it can hang with virtually anyone at close to full strength."
Despite not having the best game from an offensive standpoint against the Saints, the Bucs' defense stepped up in a major way, forcing five sacks and four turnovers on the day to pull out the win on the road.
While the thought would be the Bucs would move up maybe a spot or two, it just really wasn't the week for it. Per Edholm's rankings, there was very minimal change, with only the Green Bay Packers (+1), the Philadelphia Eagles (+1) and the Seattle Seahawks (-2) seeing any movement at all.
The Buccaneers enter their bye week in a comfortable position, but will have to come out of it strong if they hope to continue climbing the power rankings with the likes of the New England Patriots (11th and rising), the Buffalo Bills (9th), and the Los Angeles Rams (7th) immediately on deck following the off week.
SAD NEWS: Panthers Fans Shed Tears and Send Prayers for Xavier Legette’s Father After Heartbreaking Announcement
In a devastating turn of events, fans of South Carolina football and the broader NFL community are offering their support to Xavier Legette after his family shared the tragic news regarding his father’s health.
Today, Legette’s family released a statement revealing that his father is currently battling a serious illness. Though the specifics of the illness have not been disclosed, the news has left Legette’s supporters and the entire South Carolina community heartbroken. Fans and teammates are now pouring out their prayers and well-wishes for the Legette family during this incredibly difficult time.
Xavier Legette, a standout wide receiver for South Carolina, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top talents in college football. Known for his athleticism and work ethic, Legette has been a key contributor to the Gamecocks’ offense. However, as his father faces a critical health crisis, Legette’s focus has shifted away from the field and toward his family.
After the announcement was made, social media was flooded with heartfelt messages from teammates, fans, and fellow athletes. The outpouring of love and support speaks volumes about the respect and admiration that Legette has garnered both on and off the field. The NFL community, as well as his collegiate supporters, are standing behind him as he navigates this challenging time.
While Legette’s impressive performances on the field have caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, the true measure of his character lies in how he is facing this personal battle with such grace. His family has always been his priority, and now, more than ever, they are in his thoughts as he supports his father through this incredibly difficult journey.
Legette, known for his humility and maturity, shared a message of gratitude, stating, “Family comes first. I’ll be there for my father and my family every step of the way. I appreciate all the love and support from the Gamecock family and everyone who’s been there for us during this time.”
As Legette deals with his father’s illness, his absence from the field will surely be felt. However, the strength and unity of the South Carolina fanbase and the larger football community will help carry him and his family through this emotional time.
Our deepest condolences and thoughts go out to Xavier Legette and his family. We are sending all our prayers, strength, and support as they face this heartbreaking situation together. The entire football world stands with you.
