The New Orleans Saints fell to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 3-23 on Sunday afternoon. Although there were struggles, particularly on offense, there were some bright spots. It's no coincidence Chase Young and Kool-Aid McKinstry find themselves on the right side of this list.
The Saints defense did a good job holding the Bucs offense, and it was the most surprising aspect of the game. Baker Mayfield had just an okay game. That's why the winners and losers are split perfectly between offense and defense. It wasn't purposeful. It just fell that way naturally and it makes the most sense.
Here are three players who impressed and two who disappointed.
Chase Young and the Saints defense steal the show while the offense floundered
Winner- Chase Young
Chase Young has been the Saints best player since joining the lineup three weeks ago. He tallied 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a pass deflection against the Buccaneers. He was constantly in the backfield. He’s a key reason why Baker Mayfield struggled.
Young has proven he was worth the three year, $51 million extension he signed this offseason. The 26 year old should be a building block for years to come on the Saints defense.
Loser- Spencer Rattler
It’s no secret, Spencer Rattler had the worst game on Sunday. He couldn’t bounce back after a disappointing performance against the Chicago Bears and got benched late in the third quarter. He went 15/21, 136 yards, a pick six, and a lost fumble.
Rattler’s season isn’t over but the outlook is certainly bleaker than a few weeks ago. He will have a chance to prove he can be the starting quarterback again during practice. However, the damage has already been done. Much of the fanbase is in favor of Tyler Shough moving forward.
Winner- Kool-Aid McKinstry
2025 has been a roller coaster for Kool-Aid McKinstry. He’s had highs and lows; but he’s riding high right now after an outstanding showing against the Buccaneers. McKinstry had four tackles and two pass deflections on back-to-back plays on Sunday. He is on his way to proving he can be a franchise cornerback.
Loser- Juwan Johnson
Juwan Johnson continues to falter as his disappointing season continues. He had five receptions for 58 yards against Tampa Bay, which isn’t bad, but his faults don’t show up on a basic statsheet. He’s not a reliable threat anymore as he’s struggling with drops. Pair this with his sub-par run blocking and it becomes evident that his time on the Saints is coming to an end.
Winner- Brandon Staley
The defense is clearly bought in on Brandon Staley. They are playing with tons of energy and passion. That was apparent on their goal line stops. Staley has them fired up and playing the best they can. There will still be struggles, but it’s a good sign of things to come.