Sunday proved to be a difficult outing for the New Orleans Saints. Despite having multiple opportunities to secure a victory over the Atlanta Falcons, the Saints ultimately fell 24-10.
Several issues contributed to the loss, but three players in particular stand out above the rest.
K Blake Grupe
Of the three issues, two players warrant immediate discussion, but Blake Grupe must be addressed before turning to the person who continues to allow him to handle kicking duties. Grupe converted just one of three field-goal attempts in this game, and the two misses were considered routine by today’s NFL standards. Over the course of the season, he has missed eight field goals and currently ranks near the bottom of the league in that category.
If Grupe had made those field goals, the Saints would have gone into the second half tied 13-13 with the Falcons and would have received the ball to start the third quarter.
After the game, Grupe spoke to the media and was asked whether he was worried about his job:
Blake Grupe on if he’s worried about his job: pic.twitter.com/mtGtzYf1VS
— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) November 24, 2025
HC Kellen Moore
Now, to the person who had arguably the worst performance of the day. Regarding playcalling, HC Kellen Moore made questionable decisions throughout the game that eliminated any chance the Saints would score. Twice, the Saints were on the one-yard line, and the playcalling stopped them from scoring touchdowns. There were also two times when New Orleans should have gone for it on fourth down, and they didn’t, which has been an issue all season.
Taking those two missed touchdowns (one resulted in a field goal, so 11 points) and adding the two missed field goals from Grupe, the Saints missed out on 17 points that should have been scored. A kicker change should have happened weeks ago, and the fact that it hasn’t is Moore’s fault.
G Cesar Ruiz
Here we are again. G Cesar Ruiz has been unable to avoid this list each week, and there are good reasons why. Ruiz has been the catalyst for too many blown-up plays, and he is hurting this team more than he is helping. Ruiz is currently ranked 40th at guard per PFSN’s OL Player Impact Metric.
Changes will have to be made in the offseason, and there is a good chance Ruiz won’t be on this team next season.
