Ahead the Denver Broncos‘ showdown with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football, we asked John Sigler of Saints Wire five questions about New Orleans and Thursday’s matchup. View our questions and John’s answers below.
1. How does the Saints’ fan base feel about QB Spencer Rattler’s first NFL action? (22-of-40 for 243 yards, one TD, two INT)
Fans were optimistic. Rattler made some plays under pressure we hadn’t seen from Derek Carr, and he throws a mean fastball. There’s a lot to like there. It’s just tough to properly evaluate him with so many injuries hitting the offensive line and receiving corps. That will be the case again this week, too.
2. What is the biggest strength of the team six weeks into the young season?
It’s got to be the pass defense, even after they just gave up so many yards and touchdowns. They have a deep secondary full of ballhawks and intelligent playmakers with great football instincts. Paulson Adebo and Alontae Taylor can be picked on in coverage, but they’re both capable of taking the ball away in the time it takes to blink.
3. On the flip side, what is the biggest weakness of the team at this point? What can be done to fix it?
The interior offensive line depth and run defense have both been lacking. Both Week 1 starters at guard are hurt, and so is Pro Bowl center Erik McCoy. Defensively, they’re too soft at the line of scrimmage and lax in pursuit in the open field. You’d like to think that can be coached up but it’s not like none of these guys have tackled a dummy or moved a blocking sled before.
4. The Saints have had back-to-back short weeks (Week 5 MNF, Week 6 on Sunday, Week 7 TNF). Do you think that will play a determining factor in Thursday’s game?
Yes, the short rest is a major concern. They’ve got 18 players listed on the injury report which would be a challenge to navigate even during a long bye week. Guys who might otherwise press to play through minor injuries may be held out. It’s a long season, but they’re already shorthanded.
5. What will be a key to Thursday’s game in order for New Orleans to win?
Pressuring Bo Nix and getting negative plays out of him is going to be the difference-maker. That’s easier said than done when the Saints’ pass rush has been pedestrian at best, but that’s their clearest path to victory. Winning the turnover battle, setting up Rattler on short fields, and taking away Sean Payton’s opportunities to call bold plays are key. Whichever team better protects and supports their rookie quarterback should win this one.
Thursday’s game will be available to stream exclusively on Prime Video.
