The New Orleans Saints have their second NFC South divisional game of the season, and this time it will be against the Carolina Panthers. For the first time since the Saints’ win against the New York Giants, New Orleans has a winnable game.
Saints vs. Panthers Preview
After a strong start to the season, despite the losses, New Orleans appeared to be a fighting team that could potentially secure some upset wins this season. Since their victory over the Giants in Week 5, the Saints have struggled to maintain their lead in games. With the results not going in New Orleans’ favor, the staff made the call to bench QB Spencer Rattler and put in rookie Tyler Shough, who will be making his second start.
The Panthers’ season has taken a decidedly opposite direction. It has been up and down at times, but Carolina is 5-4 and fighting for first place in the division. The rushing attack is one of the best in the NFL, and the pass defense can stifle opposing offenses. The Panthers can be dangerous, but they also have weaknesses that can be exposed.
How the Saints Could Win/Lose This Matchup
If the Saints want any chance to win this game, they cannot let the Panthers dominate through the run. This season, per PFSN’s RB Impact metric, Panthers RB Rico Dowdle is ranked third among all RBs, has an 89.0 impact score, is averaging 5.6 yards per rush, and is third in rushing yards. By taking the ball out of QB Bryce Young’s hands and using the running game, the mistakes on offense are limited, and Carolina can control the game.
Meanwhile, New Orleans’ run defense has been bad this season. Looking at PFSN’s Defensive Impact metric, the Saints have allowed the sixth-most rushing yards this season. This is a horrible mix that could destroy any chance New Orleans could have.
Another area New Orleans has struggled with this season is converting third downs, but the Panthers have the sixth-highest percentage of third- and fourth-down conversions allowed. This could be a game where the Saints address one of their issues and secure those third-down conversions.
Saints vs. Panthers Prediction
Starting fast and avoiding punts is something Saints HC Kellen Moore has made a priority, and New Orleans can get that done against Carolina.
Final Score: Saints 13-10