Tyler Shough checks yet another box to prove he's the Saints' franchise QB

Tyler Shough is the unquestioned starting quarterback of the New Orleans Saints, and the only reason to not say he’s the Saints’ franchise quarterback is not wanting to rush to judgment after his small sample size. Yet, Shough continues to check the boxes to showcase why he's the next leader of the franchise.

Shough began to check the performance box last year, but 9 starts should still keep that box in the not applicable category. As we wait for a clear answer there, he has been doing his part off the field since being drafted, and the latest example is pregame speeches. It may be preseason but Shough is already in midseason form with his speeches, a responsibility he's picking up this year.

Tyler Shough’s Drew Brees comparison is inevitable but doesn’t define him

The thing about the comparison to Drew Brees is Shough can’t do anything about it. He appears to be on his way to being the first franchise quarterback since Brees, so of course, there’s going to be some slight comparison from fans. 

However, it’s been long enough after Brees to where Shough won’t see everything he does compared in a “Drew did it like this” type of way.

Saints fans have sat through Jameis Winston,  Andy Dalton, Derek Carr and Spencer Rattler since Brees retired. The Saints have gone through enough guys who could have been the guy. In some ways, that lineup of failed experiments works to Shough’s advantage. 

Instead of being constantly compared to Brees, Shough gets compared to players who didn’t work, primarily Derek Carr. It’s a much easier comparison to win. Replacing a legend like Brees is hard and typically impossible, but Shough isn’t in those shoes. 

When the similarities arise, however, they will be pointed out. This speech is a great example. The pregame speeches were a notable trait from the Drew Brees era, and to this day they are still remembered fondly.

Brees switched it up annually and delivered speeches and chants that give Saints fans chills over a decade later. No one is asking Shough to give those types of moments. Fans just like that a quarterback is leading the charge once again.

Demario Davis was the heart and soul of this team after Brees retired, and he made the pregame speeches his own. There's no more Davis in New Orleans now. Shough wasted no time stepping in and assuming that role.

It's another sign that the Saints have a quarterback who can be the face and leader of the franchise. Shough isn't running from that role. He's embracing and desires to step into that position.

Shough isn't Brees, and it doesn't seem like anyone, from Shough to fans, expects him to be. When there's something that reminds fans of Brees, it's still good to see. Not for nothing, Shough does seem to be a natural in the speech department.

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