The New Orleans Saints officially began their 60th season as an NFL franchise on Saturday with their first preseason matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although the Saints would ultimately fall in the exhibition 24-20, this week’s contest allowed both coaching staffs a glimpse at players who would normally not get many reps, while fans could rejoice that football was finally back. Let’s take a look at what social media had to say about the game!
What a way to kick things off…
Even in a disappointing
loss, New Orleans could not have started the game any better, leaving fans thinking ahead to bigger and better things. After Jacksonville won the coin toss and deferred, RB Ty Chandler returned the game’s opening kickoff 86 yards to set up a one-play scoring drive- a touchdown scamper by RB Audric Estime. If you think things could not have gotten any better, you’d be mistaken. On the ensuing defensive possession, Saints LB Jaylan Ford forced a red-zone turnover after snagging a leaping interception. New Orleans was firing on all cylinders in all phases of the game and had the Caesars Superdome rocking.
Everyone needs practice, even the broadcast team
While the Saints got out to a hot start on the field, those behind the cameras, bringing the game to fans at home, still needed a little warming up. Many discussed how “undefined” the coverage of the preseason game on television was, even leading some to voice their displeasure.
So close, yet so far
After leading 20-6 at halftime, the New Orleans Saints were shut out in the second half as the third- and fourth-string players took over. Even with a missed field goal attempt from Charlie Smyth and a late score from the Jaguars to take the lead and momentum, the Saints stayed in the game until the very last play, setting up some dramatic flair in week one of the preseason.
