NEW ORLEANS — As Kirk Cousins and the leading Falcons prepare to face the last-placed New Orleans Saints, they are well aware of the potential challenges of underestimating their opponents. The first encounter between these two teams earlier this season ended in a narrow victory for the Falcons, who secured a last-minute field goal in Week 4. Now, they are set to meet a Saints team eager to make a strong impression under their new interim coach, Darren Rizzi.
Cousins voiced his concerns regarding the usual boost teams receive following the replacement of a head coach, pointing out that based on his experience, “the team plays very well the following week.” He noted that this could pose a significant challenge for the Falcons. “They’re going to be emotionally and mentally at their best — and then playing at their place,” he added. These factors mean that the Falcons need to be at the top of their game to secure a win.
The change in coaching for the Saints came shortly after a disappointing defeat against a struggling Carolina team, resulting in a seven-game losing streak—the team’s longest in 25 years. Dennis Allen, who led the Saints for two and a half seasons with an overall record of 18-25, was dismissed. Despite being respected by team management and ownership, the decision was made as the Saints desperately sought to reverse their fortunes.
In steps Rizzi, the well-liked special teams coordinator, who took over the head coaching duties. He emphasized that the team is not giving up on the season, stating, “Do I think in any way shape or form that we’re giving up on this season? I don’t.” His belief in the team’s potential is echoed by players, including defensive end Cameron Jordan, highlighting the rivalry by declaring, “It’s Atlanta hate week.”
The Falcons’ practice on Wednesday was slightly unconventional with a light walk-through rather than their usual routine, which remained closed to the media. Offensive coordinator Zac Robinson was taken aback by the change, noting it offered a unique opportunity for teaching without the constraints of pads. He expressed that these sessions are “basically meetings on the grass,” adding, “I know the players love it.” Coach Raheem Morris explained that this decision was intended to focus on performance while reducing wear and tear on the players.
Meanwhile, Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson continues to demonstrate his versatility, contributing both as a rusher and a receiver. He has recorded two consecutive games with seven receptions and has surpassed 100 scrimmage yards in four straight games, showcasing his skills effectively. Morris has drawn parallels between Robinson’s multifaceted gameplay and that of San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey, indicating the Falcons’ strategy to maximize his impact on the field.
On the other hand, Saints kicker Blake Grupe expressed that Rizzi was the ideal candidate for the interim position, affectionately highlighting Rizzi’s rapport with players. Grupe symbolically celebrated Rizzi’s promotion earlier this week by wearing a humorous “Merry Rizzmas” shirt that had been made for the special teams group. “He’s always been a player favorite,” Grupe stated, underscoring Rizzi’s ability to connect with the team and draw out their best performances.
As the Saints prepare for the upcoming challenge, quarterback Derek Carr is getting set for his second game since returning from injury, although he faces a shortage of familiar targets. The status of Chris Olave remains uncertain due to a concussion, while deep threat Rashid Shaheed is currently on injured reserve. Other options have also been affected, leading to limited healthy receivers on the roster.
The active roster for the Saints includes veteran Marquez Valdes-Scantling alongside undrafted rookies Mason Tipton and Jermaine Jackson, with the potential for more players to be called up from the practice squad. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak remains optimistic, stating, “We got some guys that have a unique opportunity. I’m excited for the young guys that are going to get to play.”