The New Orleans Saints hit the road this weekend with plenty on the line at Lumen Field. After a 26-21 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the Saints fell to 0-2 and will be looking to find stability against the Seattle Seahawks.

Both teams enter this matchup searching for consistency. The Seahawks enters at 1-1, and this weekend's outcome should provide a clearer picture of their place in the NFC.

New Orleans needs to show they can win outside the Dome against a quality opponent. Winning in Seattle is never easy, and the Saints know this road test will be a major one. Pulling off a victory in such a loud and hostile environment would give New Orleans a much-needed confidence boost early in the season to turn things around.

X Factors This Weekend

Seattle’s offensive line has been dealing with injuries, which has led to disadvantages in their run blocking and pass protection. The Saints’ defensive front has the opportunity to take over this game.  Cameron Jordan, along with the rest of the front seven, will need to take advantage of these weaknesses by disrupting the timing of the Seahawks’ passing game and forcing mistakes. Here's how:

1. Containing Sam Darnold

After being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders in March 2025, Geno Smith made his debut with the Raiders but struggled in his first home game, throwing three interceptions in a loss to the Chargers, according to the team's website.

With Smith gone, Sam Darnold now is the starting quarterback for Seattle, giving the Saints’ defense a different challenge to prepare for this weekend.

By attacking the gaps left by injured linemen and maintaining a relentless pass rush, New Orleans can tilt the field in their favor, create turnovers, and dictate the tempo of the game. Capitalizing on the Seahawks' offensive line issues will be critical for the Saints if they want to pull off a road win at Lumen Field.

2. Managing the Noise

Spencer Rattler must manage the noise and keep the offense on track. Quick decisions, clean communication, and protection from New Orleans' offensive line will be crucial against a Seattle defense that thrives when the crowd is behind them.

3. Kamara: The Engine

Alvin Kamara will need to be the Saints’ driving force. Whether on the ground or catching passes out of the backfield, his ability to create mismatches is essential in helping New Orleans establish balance and slow down the Seawhawks' front seven.

The Verdict

New Orleans does not need fireworks, they need an execution that formulates success. For the Saints, that means protecting Rattler, feeding Kamara what he needs to perform, and letting the defense do what they do best: force mistakes. 

Seattle is talented enough to make it uncomfortable, and the Seahawks will have the crowd on their side, but if New Orleans controls tempo, they have every chance to walk out of Seattle with a big road win.

Kickoff is set for Sunday, and this one feels like it could say a lot about where the Saints are headed this season.