The New Orleans Saints got extra days off to recover and regroup after playing in the previous Thursday Night Football matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. This Sunday afternoon, they’ll host the likes of the Las Vegas Raiders as both teams have underperformed this season. Here are five things to look out for:
1) Derek Carr and Davante Adams Connection:
Both Carr and Adams were teammates at Fresno State and have joined forces once again. The former Packer has been on a tear this season as he’s unsurprisingly been Carr’s favorite target. We may see them connect on many passes as cornerback Marshon Lattimore’s status isn’t leaning toward playing on Sunday.
2) SAINTS RUN DEFENSE:
The Black and Gold haven’t been as good at stopping the run this season as there have been a couple of instances of opposing running backs rushing for over or nearly 100 yards in a game. It doesn’t help that Josh Jacobs has been on a tear for the Raiders for the last three weeks. In those last three games, Jacobs has rushed for 441 yards and six touchdowns while also getting involved in the passing game.
3) DOME FIELD DISADVANTAGE:
Since 2021, the Superdome has become less of an edge for the Saints as they are 1-2 in the dome this year. Then, 3-7 since the start of last season. Las Vegas has also won the last two matchups as they defeated New Orleans 34-24 in the then brand-new Allegiant Stadium and the Saints lost 35-34 back in Week 1 of 2016.
4) WHO WILL PLAY THEIR LAST GAME IN THEIR CURRENT UNIFORMS:
The NFL trade deadline will be Tuesday, November 1st and there are a few names that might not be with the team once Week 9 rolls around. There are 26 players for New Orleans that will have their contract expires after the season concludes. The Black and Gold could move on from a couple of players to regain some assets for the future.
5) SNAPS UNDER CENTER FOR THE SAINTS:
Jameis Winston is reportedly healthy but Andy Dalton will get the start at quarterback for the fifth game in a row. It will also be interesting to see how much of a role Taysom Hill will have in this game as he was a hero against the Seahawks, yet hasn’t been much of a focal point these last couple of games.
Kick-off is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Sunday.