After the New Orleans Saints' first preseason debut, Spencer Rattler and Zach Wilson were on different trajectories. Those different trajectories, however, have led the two quarterbacks to common ground: a battle for QB2. Kellen Moore all but confirmed it after joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams.
Wilson was a huge surprise versus the Jaguars. He was efficient and put the Saints into scoring position on three of his four drives. His 16 attempts featured the three longest passes of the day (27, 28 & 37 yards), and all of them were down the field.
Rattler didn't push the ball downfield, and the most standout moment of his day was a fumble inside the Saints own 10 yard line. The difference in their performance created a massive shift from the norm, and Wilson was QB2 for the first time this offseason in practice.
Saints unofficially have a QB2 battle between Spencer Rattler and Zach Wilson
As if the shift in how the reps are being divided wasn't enough, Moore told reporters the team is still undecided on who is going to start Saturday's game. That's a clear indication of how Wilson's status has progressed since last week's game.
This wasn't supposed to be Wilson's path. He's been written off since flaming out with the New York Jets, and there were many who believed the Saints would still keep only Tyler Shough and Rattler on the roster. It's just one game, but Wilson has shown enough to start a compelling case to keep three quarterbacks and possibly jump Rattler on the depth chart.
The difference between Wilson and Rattler's performance against the Jaguars was represented by the eye test and the stat sheet. After the game, fans were calling for the Saints to give Wilson a chance at QB2. It appears their getting their wish.
Wilson starting the game would be the confirmation that this is truly a battle. Moore wouldn't even need to say anything in that situation because actions would speak louder than words. Thursday's practice makes it feel like that confirmation is on the way.
At the worst, Wilson has narrowed the gap. A start on saturday would mean he's closed the gap. And outperforming Rattler again could give Wilson the edge moving forward.
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