Week 8 is probably Spencer Rattler’s last start of the season, barring any setbacks or another injury to starting quarterback Derek Carr. It’s also the first time to get a real evaluation of Rattler.
The New Orleans Saints’ injury woes have been a frequent topic of discussion and the biggest losses have been on the offensive side of the ball. Rattler has played both of his starts without starting offensive linemen Erik McCoy, Lucas Patrick and Cesar Ruiz.
Rattler played with star wideout Chris Olave for just three snaps, and he only had Rashid Shaheed for a game. Do-it-all tight end/fullback Taysom Hill hasn’t taken the field during Rattler’s short run as starter.
Outside of McCoy and Shaheed, all of those pieces are coming back this week. For the first time, fans will see Rattler with multiple reliable weapons and, hopefully, consistent protection.
It’s one thing for a veteran to play without some of these pieces. That’s a rough position to put an experienced passer in. It’s even a bigger challenge to ask a rookie to start his career with an empty cabinet.
Rattler’s stretch of starts may end Sunday with Carr expected back next week. Luckily for him, it’s his best chance at showcasing his potential before Carr returns.
