What’s Holding the Saints Back? Key Takeaways from Their Sixth Straight Loss
In a challenging Week Eight matchup, the New Orleans Saints fell 26-8 to the Los Angeles Chargers, marking their sixth consecutive loss and bringing their season record to 2-6. Starting rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler, continued to struggle, completing 12 of 24 passes for 156 yards and throwing three interceptions. While the Saints’ offense managed only two field goals and a safety, the defensive line managed three sacks on Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert but eventually wore down, allowing 10 points in the fourth quarter. This ongoing struggle for offensive momentum reflects issues that have plagued New Orleans since early-season success faded into a steep mid-season slump.
A key takeaway from the game is the need for improvement in the Saints’ passing game, especially in high-pressure situations. While running back Alvin Kamara and wide receiver Chris Olave continue to produce yardage—Kamara with 122 total yards and Olave with 107 receiving yards—the Saints rank among the league's lowest in red zone efficiency. Rattler’s performance underscores his inexperience, with struggles in both timing and reading defensive pressure. As head coach Dennis Allen considers solutions, simplifying play-calling and improving protection for Rattler could help the offense find consistency and build momentum for the rest of the season.
Another significant issue is the defense, which, while resilient, has suffered from extended time on the field due to the offense’s frequent short drives. Although cornerback Marshon Lattimore and linebacker Pete Werner had notable games, maintaining pressure on the Chargers, they ultimately fatigued under the extended playtime. This defensive wear-down in the fourth quarter allowed two touchdowns by Chargers receiver Ladd McConkey and other late-game points that widened the Chargers’ lead. As a short-term solution, the Saints need their offense to sustain drives, giving their defense sufficient time to rest and avoid late-game breakdowns.
Player health is also a pressing concern, with key players exiting this game due to injuries that have thinned the Saints’ roster throughout the season. Both Lattimore and rookie running back Kendre Miller left the game with hamstring injuries, while cornerback Rico Payton suffered a back injury. These injuries complicate an already strained season, with the Saints forced to rotate in less-experienced players and navigate constant lineup adjustments. Addressing depth issues and building reliable backups will be essential if New Orleans hopes to regain competitive footing in upcoming games.
Looking ahead, the Saints face a winnable matchup against the Carolina Panthers, which presents an opportunity to reverse their losing trend. To turn their season around, New Orleans will need to refine its offensive approach to foster confidence in Rattler and achieve a more balanced attack. Emphasizing fundamentals in the passing game, refining protection schemes, and utilizing Kamara’s versatility will be crucial adjustments. Should the Saints recalibrate their strategy and rally around these areas, they may be able to close the season with stronger performances and salvage what has been a challenging campaign.
