NEW ORLEANS — The Bucs bounced back from their season-opening defeat in a big way Sunday, with rookie Jameis Winston and the defense holding on for a 26-19 win over the Saints at the Superdome.
The Bucs (1-1) ended a seven-game losing streak to the Saints and an eight-game losing streak against the NFC South. They won despite losing fumbles on back-to-back offensive plays, both inside their own 30, allowing the Saints to get back into the game after trailing 23-7 in the fourth.
Down 23-19, Saints quarterback Drew Brees got the ball with a chance to drive for a go-ahead touchdown, but it was the Bucs defense that stepped up with safety Chris Conte forcing a fumble that was recovered by defensive tackle Henry Melton with 2:58 left.