Will the Saints beat the Ravens?
Last week against the Detroit Lions, we saw some great things from this unproven New Orleans Saints roster, but we also saw some worrying habits/performances arise. This is normal for Week 1 games, but there's little proof that these positives/negatives won't happen again, especially the negatives. Kellen Moore’s slow starts have probably become the story of his HC career so far. Starting fast on offense is something this team has always prioritized and worked at, but it just hasn't happened. Many factors go into this, including an inability to adjust, personnel, and more, but what's really important is that it happens.
In a more positive light, the Saints should feel good about Tyler Shough at QB. Yes, the start against the Lions was honestly embarrassing, but what Shough did in the second half was incredible, and it was more like what we saw last year, but better. For now, the start of the game can be viewed as an outlier.
Going into Week 2, the slow starts and Tyler Shough's ability to lead will both be major factors against the Baltimore Ravens, but they both may not matter in the end. The Ravens are a Super Bowl favorite this year under Jesse Minter. Their offense is extremely dangerous due to their rushing threat, and their defense can be locked down. They aren't a perfect team, and that's why I don't think the Saints will be out of the game, but winning is very unlikely.
Even if the Saints were at full health, this game would be a challenge, and just looking at the Saints' schedule, it may be the hardest game of the year. We have not seen the Saints be able to stop Jackson since he was drafted in the NFL, and although the team did better under Brandon Staley when attempting to stop dual-threat QBs, this will be the biggest test so far. Also, with the Saints' lack of run defense on the interior of the defensive line, going against Derrick Henry sounds like a horrible outcome just waiting to happen.
Now include the Saints’ injuries, and it gets worse. Although I have confidence in this team to do some good things in 2026, I don't have confidence that they can win this matchup.
My final score prediction is 35-24. Shough has a good game, but the rushing attack once again struggles. On defense, I would also expect a worse game, but not horrible.
