First Look: Giants at Saints
It wasn't so long ago that the New York Giants came into New Orleans and upset the Saints early in the 2021 season. The Saints surrendered a 21-10 lead in the fourth quarter and lost in overtime. Those two teams seem like distant memories now, but entering Week 15, both have a lot at stake in a wild NFC playoff outlook. Only one can win, however. Here's some of the storylines we're following leading up to kickoff.
Saints Storylines to Follow In Week 15
Oct 8, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (22) reacts after making a first down during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
OFFENSIVE REINFORCEMENTS
Taysom Hill didn't practice last week with the foot injury keeping him out of action more than the left hand issue. He practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday, which is a really good sign to start Week 15 off. That wasn't the only piece of good news for the Saints offense, as Rashid Shaheed (thigh) also returned on a limited basis and said that he expects to be back in the mix on Sunday.
We're paying attention to the status of Chris Olave (ankle) and Jamaal Williams (groin) as the week plays out, with Olave not practicing on Wednesday and Williams being limited. The New Orleans offense will want to get their running game going against one of the league's worst run defenses, as the Giants enter ranked 29th giving up 135.1 yards/game.
SEEING THE OFFENSE OFFENSE
Last week was tough to watch for a stretch. The opening drive wasn't too bad, but resulted in a missed chip shot field goal for Blake Grupe. New Orleans then overcame a three-and-out to put together a touchdown drive that finished early in the second quarter, but they wouldn't get anything until the midway point of the fourth quarter. Again, they got a win, but that type of play won't beat other playoff teams. Derek Carr and the Saints offense have to find a better rhythm on Sunday. We've yet to see them play a full 60-minute game as a team.
SOLVING FOR TOMMY DEVITO
The Saints defense looked more like themselves against the Panthers on Sunday. Now, of course it was a 1-11 team, but there were some really good performances from players and position groups. Here comes a test in Tommy DeVito, who has helped lead the Giants to three straight wins. Against the Packers, he rushed for 71 yards on 10 carries and went 17/21 for 158 yards and a touchdown. He also didn't get sacked. He's taking care of the football and making smart decisions and doing what is needed to win games.
New Orleans has had their fair share of troubles with quarterbacks who can escape the pocket quickly after not being able to get home with pressure. Dennis Allen really needs to dial up a game plan that will be both smart and disciplined. The tackling also has to get a little better too.
THE OPPORTUNITY AT HAND
Sunday is another one of those 'must-win' games for the Saints. New Orleans, like many postseason hopefuls, are in 'mission critical' this time of year. Dennis Allen's squad could get back to .500 with a win, which would set up an interesting final three games for the Saints, but they're going to have to get through a resurgent Giants squad first. They have a short week ahead before going to the West Coast to play the Rams.
If you're into scoreboard watching, here's some of the games that might impact some things on Sunday, but remember tying a record with some opponents won't go in the Saints favor.
- Vikings at Bengals (Saturday)
- Falcons at Panthers
- Bucs at Packers
- Commanders at Rams
- Eagles at Seahawks
Again, New Orleans has said their only worried about themselves and aren't looking for outside help. That means they have to produce a win.
