The New Orleans Saints gave many reasons for optimism through the first two weeks of the season, but it can be difficult to remember those reasons on the heels of getting shellacked by the Seattle Seahawks. Conversations around Spencer Rattler’s job security and faith in Kellen Moore sprouted after Sunday’s blowout loss.
Conversations around how much longer Rattler will remain the starting quarterback is a great example of how the Week 3 loss shifts perspective. Through two weeks, most of the conversation around Rattler was complimentary and focused on how he played well enough to win. After this loss, however, the narrative changed. They say it’s a what have you done for me lately league and sometimes memory only goes back to the previous game.
Kellen Moore hasn’t necessarily earned the benefit of the doubt. He’s still trying to find his way, but the scrutiny turned up a notch this week. That happens when the opposition rests their starting offense the entire fourth quarter.
The Saints loss caused a reset around the fan base
The Saints were arguably a catch away from beating the Cardinals. The 49ers game came down to the final drive. After watching how outclassed the Saints were from the opening snap, the first two games feel like illusions.
The Saints who were projected to be at the bottom of the league made an appearance versus the Seahawks. While it would be irrational to completely discount the first two games, there were reasons to be concerned about the defense in Week 2 and only got worse this week.
Sunday’s beat down reinforced those concerns as well as preconceived beliefs going into the season. Those factors combined carry a lot of weight. A repeat performance against Super Bowl contender, Buffalo Bills, could make the positives from the first two games feel like a distant memory.
Instead, the focus will fall on the lack of discipline showcased by the amount of penalties. That isn't a problem that's related to quality of opponent. That's all on the Saints. Focus will be placed on Moore's decision making. The lack of a pass rush will be highlighted just like it was in Week 3. Some of these things are already beginning to happen. This is the result of the type of performance the Saints put on tape Sunday.