As we approach the Week 17 matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the Tennessee Titans this Sunday (December 28), the narrative surrounding the Big Easy is no longer about the "what-ifs" of a disastrous 1–8 start. Instead, it’s a it's a formidable screenplay in the foundational synergy between a first-year head coach, Kellen Moore, and his first-ever draft pick, Kelvin Banks Jr.

While the 5–10 record might not scream "success" to the casual observer, but anyone watching this three-game winning streak knows that the Moore-Banks partnership is the most important development in New Orleans.

Kellen Moore arrived in New Orleans with the reputation of an "offensive wunderkind" who occasionally got too pass-happy in Dallas and Philly. However, his 2025 campaign has revealed a much more pragmatic leader. Faced with Derek Carr’s retirement and a mid-season pivot to rookie QB Tyler Shough, Moore didn't force a system, he built a bunker and stumbled on a progressive system rebuild.

Moore’s greatest "opinion" this year hasn't been a quote, it’s been his play-calling. He recognized that to save a season from the brink of historic embarrassment, he had to lean on the trenches. By simplifying the reads for Shough and utilizing heavy-personnel packages, Moore has allowed the Saints to become the "hottest 5-win team" in the league.

You don't take an offensive tackle at No. 9 overall unless you expect a cornerstone, and Kelvin Banks has been a literal island. Entering Week 17, Banks has been the model of consistency. Moore’s trust in the Texas product has allowed the Saints to leave Banks on an island against premier pass rushers, freeing up chips and double-teams for the rest of a struggling line.

In Moore’s scheme, the "Left Tackle" isn't just a blocker, he’s the pace-setter. Banks’ ability to move in space has unlocked the screen game and outside zone runs that were non-existent in September.

"Kelvin is phenomenal, His work ethic is awesome. His eagerness and wiliness to just learn and grow is really special. Kelvin is a really humble person", said Coach Moore at Tuesday's press conference.

This Sunday in Nashville isn't just a meaningless game between two teams out of the playoff hunt. It’s a litmus test for Moore’s culture.

The Matchup: Banks will likely see a heavy dose of Jeffery Simmons and the Titans' front.

The Stakes: A win here would give Moore a 4-game win streak heading into the finale against Atlanta.

The Growth: If Moore can coach Shough to another 300-yard performance behind Banks' blindside protection, the "rebuild" label for 2026 can be officially discarded.

The Kellen Moore era was nearly dead on arrival in November. However, Moore’s willingness to anchor his offensive identity to a rookie tackle in Kelvin Banks along with Tyler Shough shows the result of truly constructing a rebuild. Putting the right pieces together takes a willingness to "chance" opportunities, 

Banks is the floor of this offense, Moore is the ceiling and Shough is the door swinging open. On Sunday, expect Moore to showcase Banks’ pass-blocking excellence by taking deep shots with Shough.