Saints snap eight-game losing streak with first win: Rattler says, "It's a great feeling."
The New Orleans Saints secured a much-needed victory over the New York Giants, ending an eight-game losing streak with a 26-14 win.
Why it matters: This win represents a turning point for the Saints, signaling potential rejuvenation in their season after a dismal start.
- With their first victory since December 8, 2024, the Saints hope to build momentum moving forward.
- The game also marked the first win for both quarterback Spencer Rattler and head coach Kellen Moore, who received a game ball for his efforts.
What’s new: The Saints showcased a balanced performance that emphasized both offensive plays and defensive prowess.
- Rattler completed 20 of 30 passes for 225 yards, including a career-long 87-yard touchdown pass to Rashid Shaheed.
- Defensively, the Saints created five turnovers, led by rookie cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry’s two interceptions and Jordan Howden's 86-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
By the numbers: Key statistics illustrate the significance of this victory for the Saints.
- Rattler improved his record to 1-10 as a starter, snapping the longest active losing streak in the NFL.
- Before this game, the Saints had only led for 4 minutes and 15 seconds throughout the entire current season.
Yes, but: While the victory is a positive sign, questions remain regarding the team's consistency moving forward.
- The Saints began the season with a disappointing 0-4 record, and one win does not erase the struggles they have faced thus far.
- Head coach Kellen Moore acknowledged the unpredictability of any given game: "You never know which play is going to make a difference through all four quarters," highlighting the need for continued improvement.
What to watch: Next up, the Saints will look to maintain this newfound momentum against tougher opponents in the coming weeks.
- Rattler’s performance will be vital as he aims to establish himself as a reliable starter.
- Continued support from key players like Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau—who returned from injury—will be crucial as the team seeks cohesion.
The bottom line: As the Saints celebrate this hard-fought victory, they must focus on building upon this success in order to turn their season around.
- "It feels good to come into the locker room ... to music and everybody's smiling and dancing," said Shaheed, reflecting the renewed spirit within the team.
- If the Saints can capitalize on this win, it may mark the beginning of a turnaround in their season that fans have been eagerly awaiting.
