3 Takeaways From Saints’ Win Over The Giants

The New Orleans Saints won their second game of the 2026 season, beating the New York Giants 34-27 in thrilling fashion. Now, the game wasn't close for a long time, but a quarterback change from Jameis Winston to J.J. McCarthy, after the first interception, was a shot in the arm for the Giants' offense. Still, the Saints leave with a win and, after losses by Tampa Bay and Atlanta, find themselves in the thick of the race for the division currently run by the Carolina Panthers.

Here are three takeaways from Sunday's victory:

Chase Young continues his elite play

No matter the opponent, no matter the offensive line, Chase Young is playing like a man possessed. When Washington drafted Young from Ohio State, this is the player they believed would be their future. Four total pressures, two sacks, two hurries and in true pass sets (no play action or screens), Young duplicated that output with a 16% win rate. 

Last season, Young finished with 49 pressures, 12 sacks, two QB hits, and 35 hurries. Through six weeks, Young has generated 24 pressures, eight sacks, one QB hit, and 15 hurries. His play is ascending and Young is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, even if people aren't aware yet.

Alvin Kamara adds to his stellar resume

Drew Brees was on the call on FOX for the Saints and Giants game, and he lamented Kamara's contact balance on his touchdown reception from Tyler Shough. Brees had played with Kamara for many years, but the running back joined some elite company as the sixth player in NFL history with 5,000 receiving and rushing yards.

The veteran running back finished with fewer than 20 snaps on the day, but left his mark on the game with a vintage catch-and-run while breaking multiple tackles. It has been a joy to watch Kamara over the years, and due to age and a slowdown in production, people have forgotten the impact player he was. 

The Saints offensive line continues to shine

The Giants' defense has picked it up in recent weeks despite the loss of Brian Burns. The Saints' offensive line was up to the challenge, allowing six pressures, four hurries, 2 QB hits, and no sacks on 35 dropbacks. 

Left tackle was a discussion with Kelvin Banks, Jr. missing time, but Asim Richards was fine on Sunday. A huge point of optimism has to be on this offensive line and the high level of play.