This week, the Patriots travel to New Orleans, the site of their first Super Bowl win nearly 24 years ago, looking for a third-straight win. They’re riding high after a seismic 23-20 win over the Bills, where Drake Maye and Stefon Diggs put on an offensive clinic. The Saints, meanwhile, are 1-4 but coming off their first win of the season, a turnover-fueled 26-14 victory over the Giants.
Despite their record, the Saints have been scrappy at home, losing by just seven and five points to the Cardinals and 49ers, respectively, while forcing both teams to make game-sealing defensive stops on the final drive. Still, New Orleans ranks 31st in overall DVOA, including 22nd on offense, 29th on defense, and dead last on special teams.
Here are the three things to watch most closely.
The Saints’ receiving corps is built to stretch the field. Chris Olave (33 catches) leads the team and is a consistent chain-mover (team leading 15 first downs), while Brandin Cooks and Rashid Shaheed are vertical threats who can flip a game in one play. Shaheed’s 87-yard touchdown last week was their only offensive score but a reminder of how dangerous this group can be.
However, Shaheed is the only one of the trio to average over 10 yards per reception as first-year starter Spencer Rattler has focused the passing attack short and underneath. He averages 5.6 yards per attempt.
The Patriots secondary is rounding into form with Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis, and Marcus Jones all healthy. The safety duo of Craig Woodson and Jaylinn Hawkins will be key in defending Juwan Johnson, who ranks second on the Saints with 24 receptions. Tight end has been a problem area for New England’s defense, which allowed Dalton Kincaid 108 yards last week.
Big plays can quickly transform the complexion of a game. The Patriots defense must keep the Saints attack in front of them and continue to gang tackle with purpose.
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