Saints Keys to Upsetting the Chiefs
In Week Five of the NFL season, the New Orleans Saints face one of their toughest challenges as they square off against the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, have become a dominant force in the league, boasting an explosive offense and a defense capable of game-changing plays. For the Saints, who are still finding their rhythm, this game will be a pivotal test of their playoff aspirations and ability to compete with the NFL’s elite. In this article, we will break down the key factors that could determine whether the Saints can pull off an upset in this high-profile matchup.
Keep Carr Upright
A critical factor for the Saints in their Week Five showdown against the Chiefs will be keeping Derek Carr protected in the pocket, a daunting challenge with several vital offensive linemen sidelined due to injury. The Saints' makeshift line will face one of the league's most disruptive defensive fronts, led by All-Pro Chris Jones, whose ability to wreck a game from the interior adds significant pressure. When Carr has had solid protection, as seen earlier in the season, he’s been able to operate effectively, making quick reads and leading productive drives. However, when the offensive line faltered, especially in crucial moments, the Saints’ offense sputtered, struggling to find consistency and leaving points on the field. With a patchwork lineup against a fierce pass rush, keeping Carr upright will be vital to New Orleans' chances of keeping pace with Kansas City's high-powered offense.
Get Pressure On Mahomes
Conversely, the Saints must consistently pressure Patrick Mahomes to disrupt Kansas City's explosive offense. Mahomes has a unique ability to make plays under pressure, but the Saints can’t afford to give him too much time in the pocket. Limiting tight end Travis Kelce will be crucial, as he is Mahomes' most trusted target, especially with many of Kansas City’s other top receivers sidelined. If the Saints can contain Kelce and force Mahomes into hurried decisions, they’ll have a better chance of slowing down the Chiefs' attack and keeping the game within reach.
Close Game Out Strong
The Saints used to be a team that was known for being able to close out games, but that's simply not been the case these days. In back-to-back weeks, New Orleans has been able to rally late and take a lead, only for the defense to falter. Of course, many things happen throughout the game that factor into the outcome, but this is a shocking trend for Dennis Allen and the company. Since Allen has been head coach, here's a collective look at finishes the Saints have had in the final quarter and how they lost the game. Let's also remember that New Orleans is just 8-14 in one-score games under him, too, and we won't include the recent two games. The bottom line is that if you're in a position to win the game late, you must close it out. It's the difference between whether or not you're in the postseason or not. The Eagle's loss could come back to haunt them later in the year, and losing a divisional game to Atlanta could keep you from an NFC South Title. Dennis Allen is just 1-5 in primetime, and Derek Carr is just 3-14 against the Chiefs in his career, so consider their work cut out for them.
In what promises to be one of the most challenging matchups of their season, the Saints face a daunting task against the Chiefs in Week Five. To have any chance of pulling off an upset, New Orleans will need to execute on both sides of the ball. Protecting Derek Carr is essential, especially with a battered offensive line against Chris Jones and a fierce Kansas City pass rush. If Carr has time to work, the offense can find its rhythm, but breakdowns in protection could doom their chances. On the defensive side, applying pressure on Patrick Mahomes and limiting Travis Kelce’s impact is equally crucial, especially with Kansas City’s receiving corps thinned by injuries. Suppose the Saints can win in the trenches and force Mahomes into uncomfortable situations. In that case, they have a real shot at making this game competitive and potentially pulling off a season-defining victory.
