The New Orleans Saints offense is coming off of one of their worst performances of the Kellen Moore era, only able to score six points last week. Hitting the road for a two-game road trip, their next opponent, the New York Giants, has a defense that hasn't allowed more than 200 yards passing since week two. A unit that's ice cold vs. a unit that's red hot, Sunday afternoon could get ugly.
Last week, the Saints offense was nearly nonexistent, with only 142 yards (passing and rushing) through four quarters. The Giants' high blitz rate and eagle-eyed defensive backs could be a recipe for disaster for Moore and Co. if they are once again not prepared enough. If New Orleans can't find a way to crack the defense open early, then they'll be playing right into the Giants hands and will have another long afternoon.
The offensive line in New Orleans just had a total collapse last week, as quarterback Tyler Shough was blitzed on 85.2% of his dropbacks. Forcing the Saints into predictable, low-percentage situations, the offense was stripped of any chances to win the game. If they walk into MetLife Stadium without making any obvious improvement, the offense will march into another defensive trap.
The Saints are set to face one of the NFL's best passing defenses
Five weeks through the 2026 season, the Giants have a top 10 passing defense, even without linebacker Brian Burns tearing his knee up in week three. "That was a big loss for them and what they do, but they've done a really good job of schematically making up for it," Saints offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier said to the media. "Obviously well documented, their pressure rates have gone way up."
The Saints' offensive line will have to be constantly communicating if they want any chance to pick up a simulated pressure or identify whatever blitzes Dennard Wilson might throw at them. They need to be able to help punish the Gaints' defense for any aggressiveness, and they need to show Kellen Moore that they can actually block on screen passes, in max protect, or even just in general. On Sunday, slowing down the opposing pass rush is the only way to open up downfield shots.
Fortunately for New Orleans, the Giants have been hit with an injury bug and have been without their top edge rusher Abdul Carter in practice all week. That gives the Saints a tactical opening to exploit the edges, though that would depend on tackles Asim Richards and Tailese Fuaga playing up to par. If they can, the Who Dat Nation might see a dynamic offense they haven't seen since their week two win in Baltimore.
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