NEW ORLEANS — What began as a hopeful season for the New Orleans Saints in mid-September has turned into their most disappointing record since the franchise’s struggles following Hurricane Katrina, finishing the year with a 5-11 mark. The team is currently on a three-game losing streak and has lost four out of their last five games, suffering a staggering defeat of 59-10 over their past two outings.
This downturn contrasts sharply with their performances in the first two weeks of the season when they achieved impressive victories, combining to outscore opponents 91-29. As the team prepares for the final week of the season, fans and players alike are left longing for a turnaround.
Veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan acknowledged the myriad of excuses that could be made due to the injuries plaguing key offensive players and essential linemen. However, he emphasized that the underlying issue was the team’s overall performance. “At the end of the day, we were not good enough this year,” Jordan expressed, reflecting the pain felt by both players and supporters of the team.
Interim coach Darren Rizzi, who stepped up after the dismissal of Dennis Allen, noted that while the team’s mental lapses and execution failures have been detrimental, he believes the players have put forth strong effort. “I’m looking for guys that aren’t giving great effort; I can’t find them,” Rizzi stated, alluding to the fact that the issue lies more with execution than with effort. Blaming injuries is easy, but Rizzi insists that accountability is crucial moving forward.
Since taking over, Rizzi has posted a 3-4 record, hoping to showcase his coaching skills for a more permanent role. However, his prospects do not look promising after a lackluster performance resulting in a 25-10 defeat against the Raiders, a team that had struggled throughout the season. “I can’t concern myself with that right now,” Rizzi commented on his future, emphasizing his focus on preparing for the upcoming game.
In terms of positives, New Orleans’ special teams have excelled, having continued to operate without major issues, including solid coverage strategies and successful kicking from Blake Grupe. However, significant concerns remain regarding the run defense, with Las Vegas rushing for 156 yards, and the Saints’ offensive struggles, only managing to run for 81 yards and failing to convert on nine of ten third downs.
Individual performances have varied. Cameron Jordan stood out with a sack against the Raiders, marking his continued consistency with three sacks and five tackles for loss over the last three games. Coach Rizzi praised Jordan’s professionalism and leadership amidst the team’s challenges, expressing hope for his continued presence beyond this season.
On the other hand, rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler has faced difficulties, falling to an 0-5 record as a starter. Despite Sunday’s matchup against a struggling Raiders squad being viewed as winnable, Rattler was unable to move the offense effectively, recording two interceptions and only one touchdown while the team failed to score in the second half.
Injuries further complicate the situation, with uncertainty surrounding the availability of starter Derek Carr and star running back Alvin Kamara for the last game of the season. Additionally, running back Kendre Miller is dealing with concussion symptoms, and defensive player Jaylan Ford suffered a fractured fibula.
The Saints are approaching the end of a season that marks 18 years since they last recorded fewer than seven victories in a campaign. Closing out the season against Tampa Bay, the team holds the potential to disrupt the Buccaneers’ hopes of clinching their fourth consecutive NFC South title. “At this point, you’re just trying to ruin other people’s dreams,” said safety Tyrann Mathieu in reference to the upcoming matchup. “Obviously, Tampa is a divisional game. I am more than sure that we will be ready to roll.”
