WEEK 6 PREVIEW

   Coming off of a big loss to the Chiefs, Saints fans are hopeful going into Week 6. News broke early in the week that Spencer Rattler will be starting at QB in Derek Carr’s absence. The injury report has gotten shorter this week and players are excited for this game. Multiple players have taken to social media in support of the QB decision for this game. Let’s break everything down so we’re all prepared for what’s to come.

THIS WEEK’S MATCHUP:

   The Buccaneers are coming to town this week for a divisional matchup. Although this is a divisional game, we can’t call this much of a rivalry like we have with the Falcons. The Saints lead this series 40-25 all time. The Bucs are sitting 1 game ahead of the Saints in the division but a loss this week would move the Saints into 2nd place. The Bucs are averaging 341.6 YPG while the Saints are averaging 328.4 YPG. The Saints are really trying to get back to their level of production from Weeks 1 and 2.

 YOUR SAINTS:

   The injury bug has really been affecting this team the last few weeks. While some key players are still out hurt, others are returning from injury. During last week’s game, Derek Carr went down in the 4th Quarter with an oblique injury. In his absence, Spencer Rattler will be the starting QB. We’ve heard from coaches and players who are all excited for this opportunity the rookie has been presented. Klint Kubiak said the offense won’t be “dumbed down” for Rattler. What can we expect from Spencer in his NFL debut? We can expect a QB who’s aware of when the pocket is breaking down, along with a QB that’s able to climb, or even escape, the pocket when necessary. He will be looking to get the ball down field. During the preseason Rattler spoke about making an emphasis to get the ball to Chris Olave. Olave, who’s down statistically so far this year, should be excited for that news. Shaheed will be ready to go for Sunday so the rookie will have both receivers to throw to. I expect a rejuvenated scheme with a lot more RPO and Play Action early and often.

   The defense is getting a few players back this week, which should only boost our performance on that side of the ball. The defense has been less productive the past few weeks, but that’s to be expected when the offense can’t stay on the field. The key matchup in this game, to me, is always Marshon Lattimore against Mike Evans. Lattimore has only been targeted 9 times during the first 5 games of the season. Having Khalen Saunders in the trenches really seals up our run support. Bijan Robinson will look to have a big game but Saunders and Chase Young look to keep his production down. This should be a very exciting game!

INJURY REPORT:

   Taysom Hill, Cesar Ruiz, Derek Carr, Will Harris, and Pete Werner are all out this week. Payton Turner, Lucas Patrick, and Kendre Miller are listed as questionable.

MY PREDICTION:

   Maybe I’m crazy. Maybe I’m over excited for Rattler’s debut. I think the Saints will look fresh this week and surprise a lot of folks. I think the offense will control the tempo and give the defense chances to stay off the field. I have the Saints beating the Bucs with a score of 27-20. If the Saints can get back to .500 at 3-3, the future’s looking bright! Who Dat!!!

Like what you’re reading?

Follow @TheTHimel on Twitter/X for more!