Charlie Smyth tasted victory in his second start on the bounce for New Orleans Saints as they defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24-20 in the NFC South on Sunday.
The Saints were eliminated from play-off contention last weekend, going down 21-17 at the Miami Dolphins. However Smyth had a day to remember, with a successful onside kick and 56-yard field goal delighting those watching back in his native Mayobridge, Co Down.
Against Buccaneers, Smyth produced another good performance to strengthen his hopes of becoming the long-term kicker for the Louisiana outfit.
He missed a 48-yard field goal in the second quarter, but made a 30-yard field goal that tied the score at 17 each at the end of the third quarter. He also nailed all of his three extra point attempts.
Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough had two of New Orleans’ three rushing touchdowns.
Shough passed for just 144 yards, but he rushed for 55 and fellow rookie Devin Neal contributed the third touchdown and 70 rushing yards on a rain-soaked field.
Baker Mayfield passed for 122 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Buccaneers (7-6), who dropped into a tie with idle Carolina for first place in the NFC South.
Charlie Smyth again through the driving rain in Tampa! 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/dAbAGH90PR
— NFL UK & Ireland (@NFLUKIRE) December 7, 2025