Saints' offensive line has the opportunity to prove impressive Week 1 wasn’t a fluke

If you watched the New Orleans Saints dismantle the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, it’d be hard to imagine that New Orleans’ offensive line had fans worried all offseason. In the game, they were absolutely dominant, moving bodies in the run game and consistently keeping Derek Carr clean.

According to The 33rd Team, the Saints offensive line had the best pass protection in Week 1. They ranked second in pressure percentage and sixth in sack percentage. That gave them the highest average after Week 1.

Former NFL lineman AQ Shipley, in a segment on The Pat McAfee Show, ranked his top five performing offensive lines in Week 1, and he had New Orleans ranked fourth. Shipley raved about the unit’s ability to maul defenders, carving out lanes for ball carriers.

Before the season started, no one imagined people would be raving about the offensive line. The unit was rebuilt this offseason and is relying on some inexperienced players. However, in Week 1, they quickly shifted the narrative. But, it’ll be irresponsible to not acknowledge this performance came against the Carolina Panthers, who’s defensive line isn’t the best.

The great thing about sports, though, is that you’ll always have the opportunity to prove yourself. The Saints offensive line will get that opportunity in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys.

Saints can make a statement in Week 2 against Cowboys

Dallas is loaded defensively, especially up front. Leading the group is perennial Pro Bowler Micah Parsons. Opposite of Parsons is DeMarcus Lawrence, a four-time Pro Bowl defensive end. With those two rushing the passer, the Cowboys are consistently in the backfield.

In Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns, Dallas recorded six sacks, and had far more pressures. As the Cowboys host the Saints for their first home game of the season, they’ll certainly be trying for another dominant outing.

This is when the offensive line can really prove their level. It’s one thing to look dominant against the Panthers, but when the team is relying on you to slow down Micah Parsons and the Cowboys, that’s when you can make a name for yourself.

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