The New Orleans Saints run blocking has been sub-par to start the season, but it hasn’t been talked about due to the Alvin Kamara and the rest of the running back room covering up for it at times. Kellen Moore’s scheme heavily relies on the run game, but they haven’t been able to efficiently do that yet. This forces the weight of the offense upon Spencer Rattler’s arm. The run game, particularly the blocking, must improve for the Saints to win games.
The Saints have averaged 4.2 yards per carry this season. This isn’t a bad number on its own, but it becomes concerning as it's broken up before and after contact. They are only averaging 0.1 yards before contact, then 4.1 after. Kamara and the rest of the running back room are being given no room to operate. This number must improve throughout the season.
That isn’t the only indication of a lackluster run blocking group. PFF gave the Saints a 49.9 run blocking grade. This ranked 28th in the NFL. Individually, Cesar Ruiz pulls down the group. He was given an abysmal 34.4 grade. Ruiz ranked second to last among all offensive lineman with this grade. Changes need to happen.
The Saints offense is relying on Spencer Rattlers arm
The weight of the Saints offense has fallen upon Spencer Rattler’s arm. He’s attempted 80 passes this season which places him fourth in the NFL after week two. A second year quarterback like Rattler shouldn’t be passing that much.
Rattler’s been playing great given his current situation. The Saints haven’t been far away from wins. It’s been a couple of plays or a drive being stagnant that has cost them games. It’s rational to believe they wouldn’t be 0-2 if they had an efficient rushing attack.
It's doubtful the rushing attack can be the constant engine of the offensive line if the running backs are contacted less than half a yard in front of the line of scrimmage on a regular basis. Kamara and Kendre Miller are great at forcing missed tackles, but they can't keep being asked to make something out of nothing the same way Rattler can't be expected to carry the offense.
It’s imperative that the Saints run game becomes more efficient. It will be the difference between winning and losing certain games. Hopefully the run blocking improves throughout the season, but changes need to be made this offseason if it doesn’t.