Brief topics lifted from the Wednesday news conference of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees:
1. Tampa Bay is cresting at the right time defensively, which has coincided with a 5-2 record since its bye week and a four-game winning streak. The Buccaneers, since the start of Week 5, lead the NFL with 20 takeaways (10 interceptions, 10 fumble recoveries) and lead the league with 11 fumble recoveries this season. “Especially the last four weeks, they’re probably playing about as good as any defense in football – not only the turnovers they’re generating, but just limiting teams to a low number of points and opportunities,” Brees said.