Once again, the New Orleans Saints are fighting to end a losing skid that has cast a shadow over a season brimming with potential. Currently in the midst of their longest losing streak since 2005, a seventh consecutive loss could prompt sweeping changes in the Saints’ coaching staff. Their Week 10 opponent, the Carolina Panthers, face similar struggles, riding a five-game losing streak and edging closer to another top five draft pick. Sunday’s matchup has the feel of a turning point for one team on the brink of major changes, while the other may have already accepted their fate for 2024, setting their sights on a fresh start in 2025.
Carolina Panthers Scouting Report
Head Coach: Dave Canales
Quarterback: Bryce Young
Record: 1-7
The Carolina Panthers’ 2024 season has been a disappointing one from the start. Their 37-point loss to the Saints in Week 1 set an ominous tone, raising early doubts about rookie quarterback Bryce Young as a long-term franchise leader. Following back-to-back blowout losses, the Panthers benched Young in favor of former Saints QB Andy Dalton, who managed to lead them to their only victory in Week 4 against the Raiders. Despite this, Dalton’s presence hasn’t sparked much improvement, and Carolina has continued to struggle on both sides of the ball.
With the season effectively slipping away, the Panthers made a notable roster move by trading wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Baltimore Ravens. In return, they acquired a fifth-round draft pick while also sending Baltimore a sixth rounder. The trade opens up opportunities for rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette, who has shown flashes of potential with 22 receptions for 211 yards and three touchdowns, positioning him as a hopeful future weapon.
Statistically, the Panthers rank near the bottom of the league in multiple areas, including total offense, total defense, points allowed, and run defense. Their ground game has been led by Chuba Hubbard, who has put up over 500 yards and three touchdowns, but the overall offensive production has been inconsistent at best. Looking ahead to Sunday, Carolina is likely to target a Saints secondary potentially weakened by injuries. With two starting corners possibly sidelined, the Panthers may look to exploit matchups with Legette and other receivers, hoping to capitalize on any gaps in New Orleans’ pass defense. For a team with little to lose, expect the Panthers to come out aggressive as they try to end their own losing streak and secure a divisional win.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Bryce Young vs. the Saints Secondary
With the Saints missing starting cornerbacks Marshon Lattimore and Kool-Aid McKinstry due to injuries, Bryce Young will have a prime opportunity to test a vulnerable Saints secondary. Even when fully staffed, New Orleans’ pass defense ranks near the bottom of the league, making this a matchup the Panthers will look to exploit. Young will need to connect with rookie Xavier Legette, who’s been a bright spot in Carolina’s passing game, if they’re to have a chance to break through the Saints’ defense. How well the Saints’ backup corners can hold up against Young’s potential targets could be a key factor in the game.
2. Chuba Hubbard vs. the Saints Rush Defense
If the Panthers struggle to move the ball through the air, expect them to lean on the ground game led by Chuba Hubbard. Once a hallmark of strength, the Saints’ run defense has regressed significantly, currently ranked 28th in the league by allowing 143.6 rushing yards per game. This weakness provides an opening for Hubbard, who has been one of the Panthers’ few consistent offensive threats, surpassing 500 rushing yards with three touchdowns this season. Carolina will likely rely on Hubbard to control the clock and wear down the Saints’ front if they can’t get their passing game in rhythm.
Each of these matchups will play a critical role in determining the flow of Sunday’s game. For the Saints, containing both Young and Hubbard could be the key to snapping their losing streak and staying in the playoff conversation.
Saints Keys to Victory
1. Establish Offensive Rhythm Early
With Derek Carr back at quarterback, it’s essential for the Saints to set the tone on offense right from the start. Establishing an early rhythm will not only boost confidence but also help put the Panthers on their heels. Utilizing quick, efficient passing and getting the run game going with Alvin Kamara can open up opportunities for deep shots and keep the Panthers’ defense guessing. A steady, balanced offense will make it difficult for Carolina to keep up.
2. Exploit the Panthers’ Defensive Weaknesses
The Panthers rank near the bottom of the league in both total defense and points allowed, making them vulnerable across the board. With their recent trade of Diontae Johnson, Carolina’s secondary is now depending on less experienced players. Targeting mismatches with Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara should give Carr plenty of options to keep the chains moving and capitalize on Carolina’s defensive struggles.
3. Control the Line of Scrimmage on Defense
New Orleans’ run defense has taken a step back this season, currently ranking 28th in the league. Shutting down Chuba Hubbard will be key, as Carolina’s offense is expected to rely on their ground game if the passing attack falters. Keeping Hubbard in check and forcing the Panthers into third-and-long situations will limit their scoring chances and keep Bryce Young under pressure.
4. Protect the Football
Turnovers have been costly for the Saints during their losing streak. Against a Panthers team hungry for any opportunity to shift momentum, New Orleans needs to play a clean game. Carr’s return should bring more stability, but it’s crucial for the entire offense to remain disciplined. Avoiding turnovers will not only prevent easy scoring chances for Carolina but also allow the Saints to control the clock and dictate the pace.
5. Limit Bryce Young’s Options in the Passing Game
With Marshon Lattimore and Kool-Aid McKinstry out, the Saints’ secondary will be tested. Carolina may look to attack through the air to take advantage of the Saints’ defensive injuries. Ensuring that backup cornerbacks are well-prepared and applying consistent pressure on Young will be crucial. Disrupting Young’s timing and taking away easy throws will force the rookie quarterback into difficult situations and increase the chances of turnovers. If the Saints can execute these keys, they stand a strong chance of ending their six-game losing streak and coming away with a much-needed divisional win.
Score Prediction
While we likely won’t see the high-powered Saints offense that exploded for 47 points in Week 1 against the Panthers or the team that dominated Dallas in Week 2, there’s reason to believe the six-game losing streak ends here. With Derek Carr returning to the lineup after missing time due to an oblique injury suffered in Week 5, the Saints should get the spark they’ve been missing. Carr’s presence should provide stability and improve the offensive rhythm that’s been lacking over the past few weeks.
Final Score Prediction: Saints 28, Panthers 17
Expect the Saints to control the tempo and finish with a solid two-touchdown margin, finally breaking their skid and setting a new tone for the second half of the season.
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