The New Orleans Saints are looking to build on their first win of the season against the New England Patriots, but it won’t be easy. The Patriots are coming off an impressive win over the then-unbeaten
Buffalo Bills. A lot of things will need to go right for the Saints on Sunday, and they’ll need to take advantage of these key matchups.
Saints pass rush vs. QB Drake Maye
The Saints’ pass rush has been off to a strong start this season. New Orleans has 12 sacks through five games, including 4.5 sacks from defensive end Carl Granderson. But it might get better for the black and gold, as defensive end Chase Young has returned to practice and could be looking to make his season debut on Sunday.
The Patriots have been subject to good pass rushes this season, as they’ve allowed 17 sacks in five games. In those five games, New England has allowed 4+ sacks in three games. Quarterback Drake Maye is as talented as any of the quarterbacks in the league, but the Saints have to take advantage of his youth. If New Orleans can make Maye uncomfortable and force mistakes similar to how they did against Jaxson Dart, it will make life easier on Spencer Rattler and the offense.
RBs Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller vs. Patriots run defense
The Patriots have been one of the best run defenses in the league. Through five games, they have allowed the fourth fewest rushing yards, but they will be tested on Sunday. Outside of the former All-Pro running back Alvin Kamara, Third-year running back Kendre Miller has blossomed into his role in the offense. Miller had more carries than Kamara on Sunday, mostly due to injuries, and put up an efficient 41 yards.
While Kamara is still dealing with the ankle injury he suffered in the win, the Saints’ running game should continue its pace. Miller has taken the next step in his career and has already hit career highs in attempts and yards per carry this season. With the emergence of the third-year running back, Alvin Kamara could take a back seat while he recovers from his injury.
WR Stefon Diggs vs. CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
Cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry had a rough start to the season, but he stepped it up against the Giants, logging 3 pass deflections and 2 interceptions. Coming off a strong showing, McKinstry will have to continue that momentum against a veteran wide receiver coming off a big day.
Wide receiver Stefon Diggs had an impressive revenge game against his former team on Sunday Night Football, catching 10 receptions for 146 yards. Diggs’ big day was the second 100+ yard game for the veteran wideout in back-to-back weeks, and he’ll be looking to make it three in a row against McKinstry. The second-year cornerback has struggled more times than not this season, but coming off what’s probably the best game of his young career, maybe he can continue that momentum.
