The New Orleans Saints couldn’t find a rhythm in their loss to the Los Angeles Rams, and the 16 minutes of total possession says it all. The offense looked flat, the defense couldn’t get off the field, and the coaching continues to spiral. Still, there were a few eye-catching storylines out of the rookies and second-year players who are still developing on this Saints team, and those are the ones who will define New Orleans' future, for better or worse.

It might be surprising to some to see Shough listed as a “rising” rookie after a 10-34 loss, but he actually showed a lot to build on.

Fans can be quick to judge quarterbacks, especially when the offense struggles, but it’s worth remembering that even Jalen Hurts was once doubted in Philly. People called for him to be benched, and even after he won a Super Bowl, some still weren’t satisfied. Sometimes a QB just needs time and a coach who believes in him.

Shough made some really good throws and stayed composed under pressure. Drops hurt him all game long, and the offense could never get in sync. He didn’t look better than Spencer Rattler, but he didn’t look worse either.

The difference is experience: Rattler has 15 games under his belt, while Shough has played barely three quarters of NFL football.

With only 16 minutes of total possession, there wasn’t much opportunity for him to do more — but he handled what he could. 

Kool-Aid’s second season hasn’t met expectations.

Fans were excited about his college tape, but he’s been struggling to adjust at the pro level since seeing time as a rookie until now.

Missed assignments and inconsistent coverage have been noticeable, and against the Rams, he didn’t make much of an impact. To fans, besides getting “Hawaiian Punched” by Puka Nacua all afternoon, giving up big plays, and looking overmatched is exactly why Kool-Aid trending as a falling rookie right now.

There’s still time for him to grow, but right now, it feels like the hype hasn’t matched the performance.

 Moore’s “offensive genius” label is simply not showing up on the field.

The Saints had only 16 minutes of possession against the Rams, and the offense looked completely disconnected.

No rhythm, no balance, no creativity...

It’s fair to say Moore’s stock is dropping fast.

He’s technically a rookie head coach, but his unit keeps getting worse week by week. If things don’t turn around soon, he could easily be a one-and-done.

At this point, it might take cleaning house from the GM down to reset this franchise.

It’s been a rough stretch, but there’s still some hope in Tyler Shough. He looked calm, capable, and worth developing, something this team desperately needs right now.