What Did the Saints Offense Look Like in their First Game of the 2025 Season?
The New Orleans Saints began their 2025 season in a home game against the Arizona Cardinals. Their preseason performance of three games, resulting in two losses and a tie, provided a glimpse of what we may see in the season opener. The preparation time of two weeks allowed them to prepare for this competition by determining what would be required to defend against and outscore this team. The combination of new head coach Kellen Moore and new starting QB Spencer Rattler would now be officially recorded and tested. The return of Alvin Kamara and his scoring of the team’s one thousand scrimmage touchdowns in their history were both welcomed and celebrated by fans. Although their loss was expected by analysts, there was a point in the game at which there was the potential of a win. Here are two observations about the Saints’ offense that, if addressed over the next seven days, could help them in next week’s game.
They Need to Yield More with Their Possessions
Rattler’s completions of less than 10 yards are eating up the clock. It is a good strategy to get closer to the end zone with short passes, but that takes time. Keeping your opponent’s offense off the field is crucial, but can also harm you, especially if they are at least two touchdowns ahead. The long passes have the possibility of being intercepted, but they also have the potential of resulting in six points. In addition to Kamara, there are running backs and tight ends who can easily do the job. He needs to rely on his other teammates and only run the ball if there aren’t any other alternatives.
The Momentum Returned Too Late
The initial quarter showed the wild array of costumed characters who were obviously excited to be in the dome to cheer for the Saints, and the players themselves reflected it. A lull appeared in the second quarter when the score showed only a field goal by the Cardinals for 15 minutes of play. The enthusiasm did return when the game was tied at 10 points apiece, suggesting there would be more points scored throughout the remainder of the game. However, dissatisfaction was heard from the stands when the half ended because head coach Kellen Moore hadn’t taken a timeout, although there had been opportunities when it would’ve been beneficial. The third quarter didn’t see an improvement in the moods of the players and spectators, which the Cardinals took advantage of by widening the gap by 10 points. A blocked field goal attempt by the Saints’ defense somehow reignited the fire from the first quarter and hinted that there may be enough time to regain control of the ball and score a touchdown. There was potential for at least a tie if Rattler and his offense could use every down to convert and not have it go into the hands of the Cardinals’ defense. This final possession was played calmly with awareness of the game clock by stopping it to slow the pace and avoid any mistakes. However, the level of play needed throughout the game didn’t arrive until the final three minutes, which didn’t allow enough time to score.
