This Sunday, the underperforming New Orleans Saints will face off against the Los Angeles Chargers in a vital inter-conference clash. The Saints, who started strong at 2-0, have stumbled through five consecutive losses, putting their hopes for an NFC Playoff spot in jeopardy. Meanwhile, the Chargers, led by new head coach Jim Harbaugh, sit at 3-3 following a tough defeat to the Arizona Cardinals. Kickoff is set for 4:05 PM EST.
Curious about the likely outcome of this matchup between New Orleans and Los Angeles? Keep reading!
Saints Struggling to Find Their Footing
The New Orleans Saints began the season with high hopes, showcasing their potential by winning their first two games with a commanding score of 91-29. However, since that promising start, they have faced a disheartening five-game losing streak, severely impacting their offensive performance. Most recently, the Saints suffered a heavy 33-10 loss at home against the Denver Broncos, who capitalized on a depleted Saints roster missing starting quarterback Derek Carr and both starting wide receivers.
“It’s been disappointing,” remarked Saints head coach Dennis Allen. “Injuries play a part of it, but we must find a way to improve. We’re making mistakes that shouldn’t happen,” he added, emphasizing the need for both players and coaches to step up.
Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler faced challenges during his second start, completing 25 of 35 passes for a mere 172 yards while being sacked six times. Star running back Alvin Kamara struggled as well, managing only 10 yards on seven carries. With key receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed sidelined, Rattler found it difficult to move the ball effectively, averaging just 4.9 yards per completion. The Saints converted only 5 of 17 third downs and totaled just 271 yards. Defensively, they allowed the Broncos to accumulate 389 yards, including a staggering 225 on the ground, and lost the turnover battle with two fumbles.
The Saints’ season has taken a downturn following their initial success. Shaheed will miss the remainder of the season due to knee surgery, and as the NFL Trade Deadline approaches, the team may consider making significant roster changes. Coach Allen is hopeful about Carr’s recovery from an oblique injury but may hesitate to rush him back given the team’s current struggles. After an explosive start, the Saints have dropped to 11th in points per game and 21st in total offense, ranking poorly in both rushing and passing. Their defense is also faltering, now ranking last in total defense and 26th in scoring defense.
Key Injuries: QB Derek Carr, LB Pete Werner, C Cesar Ruiz, and WR Chris Olave are all listed as questionable.
Chargers Seek Redemption
The Los Angeles Chargers enter this matchup with a 3-3 record, coming off a frustrating loss against the Arizona Cardinals. In that game, the Chargers managed five scoring drives, but all resulted in field goals, ultimately allowing the Cardinals to clinch the victory with a last-second field goal. The Chargers’ inability to finish drives has been a recurring issue.
“We did a lot of things right, but we need to score points in the red zone,” said Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. “We have an excellent kicker, but we need to do more to support our defense and special teams.”
Herbert completed 27 of 39 passes for 349 yards in the loss, contributing to a total of 395 yards of offense. However, the Chargers’ rushing attack fell flat, gaining only 59 yards on 22 attempts. The team also lost two fumbles. Defensively, the Chargers performed reasonably well, limiting the Cardinals’ third-down conversions to just 2 of 7 while forcing two turnovers.
To succeed against the Saints, the Chargers must improve their offensive execution. Historically, they have relied on a strong ground game to set up their passing attack, but against Arizona, the running game was stifled. Currently, they rank 26th in scoring offense and 25th in total offense, with particular struggles in the red zone at 30th place. On the defensive side, the Chargers excel, leading the league in scoring defense and holding a top-seven total defense ranking.
Key Injuries: WR DJ Chark Jr. is out, while WR Quentin Johnston, TE Hayden Hurst, WR Derius Davis, and LB Joey Bosa are all questionable.
Best Bets for New Orleans Saints vs. Los Angeles Chargers
The Saints’ difficulties become increasingly apparent as the season progresses. Carr’s participation remains uncertain, as he has yet to practice and continues to experience pain. The loss of Shaheed has diminished the offense’s ability to stretch the field effectively, evident in the lack of big plays against the Broncos. Facing the Chargers’ elite scoring defense, the Saints may struggle to find offensive rhythm.
Conversely, the Chargers could capitalize on the Saints’ struggling defense, which is ranked last in total defense and 26th in scoring defense. The Chargers displayed their ability to move the ball but need to finish drives better. Given the Saints’ recent performance, the Chargers are likely to control the game, applying pressure on the Saints’ quarterback while maintaining a lead that allows them to dictate the pace of play.
