It was the first play of the second quarter. It wasn't even third down, yet the New Orleans Saints decided to load up a trick play instead of being conservative. But what resulted was a 30-yard touchdown pass, which is today's play of the day.
To the defense, it probably seemed like a simple, easy read. But that wasn't always the case in last year's Klint Kubiak-led offense, and it sure wasn't the case for the Raiders on this fateful afternoon. The offense lined up in the I-Formation, then tossed to the running back, Kendre Miller. However, it's right there when the play flips on its head and makes a real splash.
Because after a few strides, Miller tossed it back to Spencer Rattler, who was then able to connect with tight end Foster Moreau on a 30-yard score. Miller should really get an assist for this one, if there ever was such a thing in the NFL.
The Saints took the lead... and lost it
The Rattler-to-Moreau connection was the game's first touchdown, with the Las Vegas Raiders having kicked a field goal the previous drive. After the offense did their thing, the defense once again did theirs, holding the Raiders offense to yet another field goal.
However, the offense vanished after that scoring drive, resulting in more punts and interceptions than big plays. Failing to extend their lead (which was 7-6 over Vegas), the Raiders would finally break through the levee and reach the end zone on their ensuing offensive drive.
After that, New Orleans was never able to snag the lead back. In fact, the Saints were only able to score once more that entire game, on a field goal near the end of the second quarter.
For Spencer Rattler, that would be the fifth loss in five starts. He would end the season 0-6, leaving him without a stat in the win column heading into his sophomore season. But he says he was grateful for the starts and hopes to build on them in 2025.