The New Orleans Saints are emerging as a dominant force in the NFC, coming off back-to-back victories over the Panthers and Cowboys. With an unexpected surge on offense, they scored 91 points in their first two games, showing that expectations are high despite doubts about their experienced roster. Looking ahead to their upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Saints’ defensive strategies will be crucial in keeping Jalen Hurts in check, especially with the signing of former Super Bowl winner Willie Gay, who enhances their athletic skills. As the Saints look to continue their winning streak, their performance against mobile quarterbacks will be closely scrutinized.
In numbers
- The Saints scored 91 points in their first two games, the second-most points in NFL history since the merger.
- Alvin Kamara leads the league with four rushing touchdowns and averages 5.7 yards per carry.
Current status
- According to PFF, the Saints currently have the fourth-highest pass blocking efficiency.
- New Orleans’ defense has struggled in the past to limit explosive plays against dual-threat quarterbacks.
What’s next
The upcoming game against the Eagles will test the Saints’ defensive capabilities, especially their ability to contain Hurts. As Willie Gay integrates into their system, expectations are high for defensive adjustments that could change the dynamic of the game. The continued improvement of Trevor Penning on the offensive line will also be crucial for sustained success.
Conclusion
The Saints are well-positioned for a potential playoff run, but they will need to use their new talent effectively to combat mobile quarterbacks like Hurts. Their next game will be a true indicator of whether they can maintain their high scoring performance while addressing their weaknesses on defense. With Kamara and Gay leading key aspects of their game, the Saints have a golden opportunity to establish themselves as a serious contender.
