Are Saints In 'Must-Win' Territory Against Jaguars?
NEW ORLEANS — It's an understatement to say tonight's clash with the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-2) is pivotal for the New Orleans Saints (3-3). Although the team's standings in the NFC South are not affected by a loss to another AFC opponent, a win is crucial for the team's morale and direction. Fans believe so as well. Nearly 63% of fans polled consider tonight's game a "must-win" for offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, with 25% saying the same for Derek Carr and 13% for head coach Dennis Allen.
We watched Carr blow up at Carmichael on the sidelines following the failed final drive in Houston. The quarterback apologized, but it's symptomatic of the organization's growing frustration.
Oct. 15, 2023; Alvin Kamara laments the New Orleans Saints losing to Houston Texans during the 4th quarter at NRG Stadium in Houston, TX.; Credit: Kyle A. Mosley, Saints News NetworkOct. 15, 2023; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Christ Olave on the sidelines in the 4th quarter against the Houston Texans; Credit: Kyle A. Mosley, Saints News Network
On paper, the talent of the New Orleans Saints' offense rivals anyone in the league, on paper. The nuances of the offensive effectiveness under Carmichael-Carr are lower than expected. Fans grew accustomed to a potent attack with Payton and Brees. Despite some anticipated bugs to work out, there have been little signs of improvement to resolve the red zone and third-down issues in the first six games.
Tonight, the team gets some help with the return of running back Jamaal Williams. He and Kamara will be on the field for the first time this season. Kamara returned from suspension as a central figure of the offensive strategy, but Williams could give him a chance to be utilized as a weapon or decoy for Carmichael. Only 40% of the fans voted a Kamara-Williams-Miller backfield would bring balance back to the offense.
Both starting tackles Ryan Ramczyk (concussion) and James Hurst (ankle) are sidelined with injuries — a significant blow to New Orleans protecting Carr. One caveat is the Jaguars aren't a tremendous sacking defense, with 12 on the season. On the other hand, the Jacksonville defense is tied for 2nd in the league with 8 interceptions. Therefore, pressure off the edge will be there to affect Carr. The interior pocket will be under siege for McCoy, Ruiz, and Peat (or Garcia).
New Orleans is under intense tension to win at home. Any lack of support from the Who Dat Nation could be more detrimental in the long run. Tonight will be about will, determination, execution, and sheer grit. Could the under-manned Saints thrill the home crowd and national audience with a win against Trevor Lawrence and the Jags?
We shall see.
