In a game where the starters were largely missing from action, the New Orleans Saints fell short against the Tennessee Titans in the preseason finale, 30-27. Starting quarterback Derek Carr, veteran running backs Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams and star wide receiver Chris Olave were all held out to ensure their health for the regular season opener on Sunday, Sept. 8, versus the Carolina Panthers.  

However, there were still plenty of storylines to take away from the game, including the impressive play of rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler, the talented depth at running back with Jordan Mims and Jacob Kibodi showing out, and some familiar visitors with former Tulane University stars — and roommates — Tyjae Spears and Jah’Quan Jackson suiting up for Tennessee. 

After a slow first quarter for the Saints, where quarterback Jake Haener struggled to get anything going on offense, Spencer Rattler came in and put New Orleans on the board with a gorgeous 21-yard touchdown pass to Equanimeous St. Brown. The dart demonstrated just how talented an arm Rattler brings to the table and gave the smaller-than-usual Saints crowd a potential taste of what is to come as they roared in excitement. 

The first half ended with an impressive 54-yard field goal by second-year kicker Blake Grupe, who was just announced as the starting kicker for the second straight season after he finished the preseason perfect on both field goals and extra points. 

The second half was dominated by the Saints’ ground game, as rookie Jacob Kibodi rushed for 59 yards on 12 carries, including two touchdowns. Jordan Mims’ electric skillset was also on display, as he accounted for 33 rushing yards on only five carries, as well as two receptions for 14 yards. 

In the end, however, the defense struggled, giving up 30 points to the Titans, and the Saints fell short. Former Tulane legend Tyjae Spears ran for 12 yards on four carries and had one catch for 12 yards in minimal action for the Titans. Rookie Tulane wide receiver Jah’Quan Jackson also recorded a rushing attempt and a catch, but shined in the return game, as Jackson returned two kickoffs for 49 yards and two punt returns for 19 yards. 

The New Orleans Saints now turn their attention to the regular season, with a matchup against their division rival, the Carolina Panthers, first up on the docket in New Orleans. The Saints return head coach Dennis Allen and veteran starting quarterback Derek Carr, who is entering his second season in New Orleans. The Panthers are ready to roll out their 2023 number one overall pick in quarterback Bryce Young for his second season as he attempts to turn around a team that struggled to a 2-15 record a year ago.  

After another disappointing season and a long offseason, New Orleans Saints football is finally back. You can catch the Saints’s home opener versus the Carolina Panthers on Sept. 8 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans at 12 p.m. CST.