NFL Opening Weekend is finally here, and the New Orleans Saints start with a tough one against the Detroit Lions.
Detroit is coming off a disappointing season, but this is still a very competitive team, and the Saints are not being handed an easy path in Week 1. Even so, there are a few New Orleans players who could put together standout performances if things break right.
Chris Olave is at the top of that list. Since Tyler Shough took over as the starting quarterback, Olave has been playing arguably the best football of his young career.
The throws have been cleaner and less likely to expose him to hits, and he had the healthiest year of his career. On top of that, Shough and Olave have built strong chemistry throughout the offseason.
None of that guarantees anything once the season starts, but the buzz around the connection is hard to ignore.
The matchup also works in Olave’s favor. The Lions’ safety room is injured, and their cornerback group is not as strong as it has been in past seasons. Health will still be a major factor for Olave, but if he stays on the field, he has a real chance to make an impression.
Kelvin Banks Jr. is another Saints player with an opportunity to shine. Now in his second NFL season, the left tackle is facing higher expectations.
His chance to stand out comes down to one major challenge: Aiden Hutchinson. If Hutchinson lines up on Banks Jr.’s side, Banks Jr. gets the chance to hold his own against one of the league’s best and show how far his game has come.
If Hutchinson is elsewhere, the assignment gets a little easier.
The third name is Tyler Shough. The Saints made a lot of offensive moves this offseason, and the expectation is that Shough can take the next step.
Travis Etienne should help the rushing attack, David Edwards brings stability to the offensive line, and Barion Brown and Bryce Lance give Shough more weapons to work with. That combination could set the table for a strong showing right away.
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Tyler Shough Gave Saints Fans Hope Before A Brutal Late Twist
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Then Shough helped turn the whole afternoon around, throwing for 410 yards and fueling a second-half rally that carried the Saints into overtime tied at 30. Even after the late push, the ending turned brutal in the extra period, leaving New Orleans to absorb a 31-30 loss after a controversial overturned touchdown tied to an obscure rule about quarterback intent. [Read more 🡒]