Week one showed us a lot about Spencer Rattler. Currently, it looks like he can be a formidable starting quarterback, a game manager, but won’t elevate the team. It goes without saying that he can improve throughout the year, but right now the New Orleans Saints have to win with him, not because of him.
Rattler ended the game going 27/46 and 214 yards. These stats won’t blow anyone away. However, the most important thing was he didn’t create any turnovers. A penalty negated an interception thrown to Will Johnson. Outside of that, it was a relatively clean game, only having two turnover worthy plays, per PFF.
He wasn’t spectacular, but he looked improved from 2024. PFF grades, although not perfect, can give a baseline on how well someone played. Rattler was given a 73.7 passing grade against the Cardinals, which won’t blow anyone away, but is good. It’s far better than his 49.4 passing grade in 2024.
Kellen Moore should’ve helped Rattler more with the run game
Kellen Moore shouldn’t be overly criticized for his first game as a head coach. In fact I thought he called a good game. However, he should’ve stuck with the run game for longer. Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, and Devin Neal all had efficient days, rushing for over four yards per carry. There was no reason to go away from it. Rattler doesn’t need to throw 46 passes in his opening game.
Rattler showed promise, especially in that last drive. He led a beautiful 13 play drive that almost resulted in a game tying touchdown. His throw to Juwan Johnson wasn’t caught but couldn’t have been thrown any better. That drive should have Saints fans feeling hopeful heading into week two.
Spencer Rattler didn’t have a magnificent game, but showed that he is a formidable NFL quarterback. He has to prove that he’s more than a game manager. Luckily for him, he will have plenty of opportunity throughout the 2025 season.