Buccaneers' Championship Hopes Hang by a Thread After Disappointing Loss to Saints

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Tampa Bay's chances of winning their fifth consecutive division title are now in jeopardy after a dismal performance against the New Orleans Saints. The Buccaneers' 24-20 loss to the lowly Saints was a stark contrast to their 6-2 start to the season, and they'll need to regroup quickly for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday. Despite being tied for first place in the NFC South with the Carolina Panthers, the Buccaneers are facing a tough road ahead. They'll play the Panthers twice in their final three games, and a loss to the Falcons could all but end their division title hopes. Coach Todd Bowles acknowledged that the team needs to improve in several areas, including their run game and fourth-down conversions. The Buccaneers managed only 179 yards rushing and averaged just 4.6 yards per carry against the Saints. They also struggled on fourth down, converting only two of seven attempts. Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed just 14 of 30 passes against the Saints, his lowest percentage of the season. The Buccaneers will face the Falcons, who have been led by quarterback Kirk Cousins, who has beaten the Bucs twice already this season. The Buccaneers will also be without several key players, including All-Pro LT Tristan Wirfs, WR Mike Evans, and WR Jalen McMillan, who are all listed as questionable for the game. Despite these challenges, the Buccaneers are determined to bounce back and prove themselves as a playoff contender.