What the Cardinals bring to the table

As this is the first game for both teams this season, we may not see the full potential of each squad, but we can pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of the Cardinals on paper. Starting with the strengths that may make the Saints' lives difficult on Sunday, we need to talk about Kyler Murray. The 7th-year QB is a dynamic runner who could take over games with just his speed. Being able to stop Murray from running for positive yards is one thing, but also trying to contain him and not extend plays is nearly impossible, and with edge rusher Chase Young ruled out, the Saints are going to have a real challenge on Sunday. On the defensive side of the ball, the Cardinals have made significant improvements to their defensive line, and this will be a good first test for the Saints' newly constructed defensive line. Josh Sweat is the main name to point out, and if New Orleans can not deal with him, he could disrupt any offensive plan Kellen Moore has.

These are two strengths that jump out, but the Cardinals also have some weaknesses that the Saints can take advantage of. Like with New Orleans, Arizona has a very young/inexperienced cornerback room. The run game is going to be a focal point of the Saints' offense, but if that slows down or the Saints are behind early, starting QB Spencer Rattler could take advantage of the Cardinals' cornerbacks. The other main weakness is the offensive line. Last season, led by OL coach Klayton Adams, the offensive line overperformed and was a solid group throughout the season. Now, with him leaving for the Dallas Cowboys, this group could take a step back, and even without Chase Young, the Saints can still disrupt the game through the defensive line.

How about the Saints?

I mentioned before in the intro that this is a new era of Saints football. With an entirely new coaching staff and new players throughout the roster, there is way too much uncertainty to really feel comfortable about this game. Besides the WR room led by Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, the safety room led by Justin Reid, and the Center position with Eric McCoy, every other spot on the roster is going to be tested this Sunday. The primary position of focus for everyone is at quarterback, with all eyes on second-year QB Spencer Rattler. After beating out second-round rookie Tyler Shough in a heated QB battle, Rattler was named the starter and overcame the odds. Kellen Moore has stated multiple times before the decision was made that the team would rally behind whoever he and his staff decided to name the starter. This is the case.... for now. QB Tyler Shough is Kellen Moore's "guy," and he will be ready to come in if need be. Will that happen this game? I highly doubt it, but the Saints' coaching staff will evaluate Rattler's performances each week and consider putting in Shough if the team starts to lose. This is just one of the outcomes, and Spencer Rattler can still secure the long-term starting QB spot,. However, against the Cardinals, the pressure will be on Rattler to perform.

Injury Report

• EDGE Chase Young - OUT
• G Trevor Penning - OUT
• S Jordan Howden - Questionable

My Prediction

Even after mentioning all the uncertainty with the Saints in this game, especially at QB, I think New Orleans will win this game 20-17, with Blake Grupe hitting a game-winning field goal.