Three takeaways from the New Orleans Saints' 1-3 start
After an unbearably slow start for the New Orleans Saints, it is time to take a step back and analyze where the team is currently at. With a 1-3 record, things aren't looking good for Dennis Allen and his crew. However, if injuries clear, New Orleans may be able to turn everything around. Now, let's […]
After an unbearably slow start for the New Orleans Saints, it is time to take a step back and analyze where the team is currently at.
With a 1-3 record, things aren't looking good for Dennis Allen and his crew. However, if injuries clear, New Orleans may be able to turn everything around.
Now, let's jump into five takeaways from the Saints' season four games in.
1.) Chris Olave is prime time
There isn't a question anymore, Chris Olave is absolutely prime time. Through Week 4, Olave has 335 receiving yards, leading all Saints pass-catchers. He took home Offensive Rookie of the Month honors. And in a season where the offense has looked anemic, Olave has been the lone bright spot for New Orleans.
2.) The run game is a necessity
When playing the Vikings, the Saints kept the ball on the ground more. In the fourth quarter, New Orleans ran the ball a combined nine times for 51 rushing yards, which far exceeds their total in the first three games. Often, this comes down to game situations, time left on the clock, scoring deficit, and other important factors. But one thing is clear: When the Saints can run the ball, the game becomes manageable.
3.) Turnovers are New Orleans' kryptonite
Only a few years removed from setting the NFL’s team record for the fewest turnovers in a season, New Orleans is last in the league in turnover margin. Sitting at minus-seven, the Saints have committed 11 giveaways while bringing in only four takeaways. That has led to short fields for opposing offenses. For a team that has been so effective at maintaining possessions, this season’s penchant for giving the ball away has proven costly.
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Feature image via Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports.
