The New Orleans Saints are finally about to play their first game out of the bye week, and after some big changes and returns, the chances of winning should be higher. But to make that happen, New Orleans will have to understand what will get them to that victory, and here are some of the keys to the game that will make that happen.

First is a big one. The Browns will be without starting QB Deshaun Watson for this game. So far this season, he has led the Browns to come back after comeback, and for the first time in years, he has looked like a starting QB. The offense isn't great overall, but good enough to win. But now he will be out, and second-year QB Shedeur Sanders will start in his place. 

Last season, Sanders had some moments, but mostly struggled as a starter. That wasn't shocking as he was a later round pick and needed to develop, and it did open up the opportunity for him to potentially start in 2026. The Browns went with Watson instead, so now Sanders has some added motivation to this game. 

This is a chance for the Saints defense to take over the game and lead the team to a win. 

The Browns' defense is much better than the offense, and their defensive line can change the outcome of a game by itself. Combining that with the Saints' less-than-good blocking, this is a recipe for disaster. 

Coming out of the bye week, Kellen Moore needs to adjust and start giving some help to the tackles. He also must implement more play action in the scheme. With help, the Saints' pass-blocking woes could improve, and hopefully Kelvin Banks Jr. can return and make life easier for Shough. 

Speaking of returns, Jordyn Tyson should be making his career debut, and if Shough does have time in the pocket, the Saints' passing game may look its best since Drew Brees. The weapons throughout the team are incredible for Shough, and even if the defense struggles, the Saints' passing game could lead them to their third win of the season, but only if there's time in the pocket. 

Hopefully, the Saints can also figure out the run game, because that would really open up the offense and get the best out of every single player and Kellen Moore’s playcalling.