The New Orleans Saints will look to follow up their big win against the New York Giants in a big Thursday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Saints are on a two-game win streak, and though they scored less points last week than in the game against the Carolina Panthers, the offense looked as good as it has all season against the Giants. As they try to follow that performance up, they will also get Chris Olave back from injuries.
The defense has also been on an upwards trajectory, allowing just six points in each of its last two games. They will find themselves in a tough matchup against Kyren Williams and the Rams offensive line.
Here are all of the matchups you need to watch as the Saints look to stay in playoff contention:
1
Rams DL vs. Saints OL
Aaron Donald versus the Saints interior offensive line is the main attraction in this matchup, but it’s important to keep. other pass rushers at bay as well. Derek Carr doesn’t perform well against pressure, so keeping the pocket clean will be imperative to the offense’s success. If the Rams win this battle, the Saints may have to hope for a low scoring game.
2
Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua vs. Saints DBs
The pairing of Paulson Adebo and Isaac Yiadom have played well since Marshon Lattimore went on IR, but this is their toughest task thus far. You also have to add Alontae Taylor into this because Los Angeles will put their receivers into the slot. Kupp and Nacua are the best 1-2 punch New Orleans has seen at wide receiver this season.
3
Dennis Allen vs. Sean McVay
The two head coaches in this game are known for their specialty on one side of the ball. Dennis Allen got this job for what he was able to do as the Saints defensive coordinator. Sean McVay is so respected offensively that his assistant coaches have been heavily sought after for years. It’ll be interesting to watch these coaches try to out-scheme each other Thursday night.
4
Kyren Williams vs. Saints DL
For the second year in a row, the New Orleans Saints rank in the bottom-10 for run defenses in the league. That will be an issue this week, as the Rams offensive line and Kyren Williams have been dominant for most of this season. Since the start of October, Williams has only dipped below 100 yards in two games and has eclipsed 140 yards three times. The Saints will need to bring their A-game if they hope to slow them down.
5
Chris Olave vs. Rams DBs
Derek Carr and the Saints offense will be happy to see Chris Olave return to action on Thursday, as he unlocks another level. The Rams secondary has not been particularly strong this season and has allowed for some big games this season. Just last week, Terry McLaurin had 6 catches for 148 yards and a score for the Washington Commanders. Olave had a nice game last year against the Rams, with 5 catches for 101 yards and a score. He will look to repeat that performance as he returns from injury.
