That was far better than Brees,who threw three interceptions in a 19-for-34,134-yard outing. He did throw a touchdown pass. The Saints also got a first-half touchdown pass by back-up Jameis Winston on a gadget play. But their four turnovers led to 21 points for the Buccaneers,who turned things around after losing their two regular season meetings with the Saints by 72-26,combined.

"It's hard to beat a team that's in the playoffs and that's in this divisional round of the playoffs when you have that lopsided of a turnover ratio,"Saints coach Sean Payton said.

It has not been an entirely smooth ride for Brady and the Buccaneers since his relocation to Florida last March in free agency. His adjustment to his new team and so many unfamiliar teammates was hindered by the NFL cancelling off-season practices and the entire pre-season amid the coronavirus pandemic.

There were moments during the season when the Buccaneers looked more pretender than contender. But they're playing well now. The Buccaneers can become the first NFL team to play a Super Bowl on their home field,with the game scheduled for February 7 at Raymond James Stadium.

"This is[how] we're capable of playing,"Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians said."Defensively we've had some rough spots at times. But we've had some really,really good times. And this is one of the best times."

Meanwhile,Brees's retirement decision looms. He turned 42 on Friday. He was still the youngster of his match-up with the 43-year-old Brady. Many expect Brees to walk away from the sport and head to the broadcast booth,while Brady appears intent upon playing more. Fox reported before the game that Brees's retirement once the Saints were done in this post-season was certain.

"I think that's probably for another press conference,"Payton said,"and I can't speak for Drew ... Obviously he's been tremendous for this team,this city. I could go on and on. But let's wait and answer that at the right time."

It was a trying season for Brees;he missed four games with rib fractures and a collapsed lung. Brees,Payton and the Saints failed in their bid to return to the Super Bowl for the first time since the 2009 season.

"I'd say this season I probably had to fight through more than I've ever had to in any other season in my career,from injury to all the COVID stuff to just crazy circumstances,"Brees said."And it was worth every moment,absolutely."

The Washington Post