Tom Brady leads record 44th fourth-quarter comeback to propel Buccaneers past Saints: 'Just like we drew it up'
It was Brady's NFL-record 44th career fourth-quarter comeback, breaking a tie with Peyton Manning for the most in history, according to NFL Research. Brady -- who finished the evening 36-of-54 for 281 yards, two touchdowns and an interception -- connected with rookie tight end Cade Otton with three minutes to go, leading to a 16-10 Buccaneers deficit. After Tampa Bay's defense held New Orleans to a second straight three-and-out, Brady capped a game-winning drive with a 6-yard game-tying touchdown toss to Rachaad White with only three seconds remaining. A play later, kicker Ryan Succop converted the game-winning extra point.
"It was a great route by Rachaad," Brady said. "Great catch. [Offensive coordinator] Byron [Leftwich] made a great call."
Speaking with ESPN's Lisa Salters after the game, Brady wished his daughter, Vivian, a happy birthday and dedicated the performance to her.
"That's for her. She was a little worried when I said we were playing the Saints. 'Oh no, daddy,'" Brady said.
Vivian's concern stems from her dad's struggles with the Saints in his time with the Bucs, as New Orleans had defeated Brady and Co. in four straight regular-season games from 2020-21. On Monday, though, it was Brady who emerged from the offensive doldrums with a captivating rally that it would seem only he could conjure up.
