The New Orleans Saints are rolling into Week 17 riding a three-game win streak, and while the playoff door has already closed, there’s still plenty on the line as they head to Tennessee to face the Titans. This matchup might not carry postseason implications, but for a team like the Saints, momentum matters-and this game offers a chance to keep stacking it.
If the Saints Win
Let’s start with the obvious: a fourth straight win would be a strong statement from a team that could’ve folded after being officially eliminated from playoff contention. Instead, Kellen Moore’s group has found another gear.
And at the heart of that late-season surge? Quarterback Tyler Shough, who’s taken the reins and injected life into the offense.
This isn’t just about finishing strong-it’s about laying the foundation for 2026. A win in Tennessee would mark another step forward in what’s quietly become a productive December.
The Saints are starting to look like a team that knows who it wants to be. That matters.
Yes, the Titans did pull off a win last week over a banged-up Chiefs team, but let’s be honest-they’re not exactly a powerhouse right now. This is a game the Saints should expect to win. And if they do, it’s not just another W in the column-it’s further proof that this team is trending in the right direction, even with the postseason off the table.
If the Saints Lose
Now, if New Orleans stumbles in Tennessee, it would certainly sting. Not because of playoff hopes, but because it would halt the positive momentum heading into a season finale against the Falcons. A loss here wouldn’t derail the progress they’ve made, but it would be a step backward after three straight steps forward.
And let’s be clear-losing to the Titans would be unexpected. The Saints have looked sharper, more cohesive, and more confident in recent weeks. That’s not something you want to disrupt with a flat performance against a beatable opponent.
Still, in the big picture, a loss doesn’t drastically alter the trajectory. It might nudge their draft position slightly higher, but that’s about the extent of the silver lining.
What matters more is how they respond. If a loss happens, it can’t erase the strides they’ve made this month.
Bottom Line
This game may not move the needle in the standings, but it does mean something. For a Saints team that’s rediscovered some rhythm and identity, keeping that going into the offseason is a win in itself. Whether it’s Shough continuing to grow under center or Moore’s offense finding its groove, the Saints have a chance to end the year with a clear sense of direction.
Beat the Titans, and that vision gets a little sharper. Lose, and the focus shifts to finishing strong against Atlanta. Either way, New Orleans has shown signs of life-and that’s worth watching.