Video Transcript
In a recent episode on the Saints Discussions on Strike 7 Sports YouTube channel, host Derrick Branch discussed the potential breakout performance of Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young against the New Orleans Saints. Branch expressed concern, noting that it would be typical of the Saints to become the first team to allow a rookie QB such as Young to have a standout game. Given the patterns observed with the Saints’ defense in recent weeks, the possibility of Young excelling is a genuine concern.
Despite the Panthers’ string of losses, they have shown improvement, particularly in their defense. If the Saints defense doesn’t come prepared, Branch predicts a challenging day ahead. The previous matchup between the two teams was a close contest, suggesting that Young might have his opportunity for a standout game against the Saints. Branch pointed out the importance of players like tight end Tommy Tremble in the Panthers’ offense, especially with Hayden Hurst out due to a concussion.
In their Week 13 matchup against the Lions, tight end Sam LaPorta torched the New Orleans defense for nine catches, 140 yards, and one touchdown. Before the bye week, Vikings TE T.J. Hockenson caught 11 passes for 134 yards and one touchdown. So, there is a blueprint on how an offense can succeed against a suddenly slow and ineffective Saints defense. It will be up to the Panthers coaching staff if they decide to pursue those avenues.
Branch also highlighted the Saints’ struggles against mobile quarterbacks, a category Young falls into. He suggested that if Tyson Bagent of the Chicago Bears could perform well against the Saints, then Young, guided by an interim head coach, could potentially exploit the Saints’ defensive weaknesses. He emphasized the importance of the Saints’ offense starting strong against the Panthers, as their ability to counteract such dynamic players is questioned.
Branch discussed Mickey Loomis’s recent comments on WWL regarding the ticket issues at the Superdome. Loomis addressed the fans selling their tickets to Lions fans, leading to a noticeable presence of opposing team colors at the game. While Loomis acknowledged the economic reasons behind this, he also expressed his displeasure at the situation. Branch believes Loomis is aware of the underlying issues but is trying to maintain a politically correct stance due to his position.
“We’re used to have a large number of Saints fans at some of our away games. We’re not used to having that volume of visiting fans at our games, so I would say, look, our stadium is sold out on a season basis,” Loomis said on WWL Saints Hour. “That’s disappointing to have that many tickets that are resold and, you know, given to visiting fans.
“But I understand the economics of it. I understand that season tickets are expensive, and you can’t go to every game, and so you’re gonna pick and choose to sell some,” Loomis continued. “But I was a little caught off guard by the volume, as you said, in the lower bowl. That was unusual and, look, I understand it, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it.”
Looking ahead, Branch speculated on the Saints’ future, especially if they continue their downward trajectory. He disagreed with the prediction of a 7-10 season finish, allowing Dennis Allen to keep his job, arguing that major changes would be necessary in such a scenario. He stressed that the bar for Allen to retain his position should be a 9-8 record and a playoff berth.
Branch concluded by discussing the upcoming game against the Panthers and the potential for Bryce Young to excel. He emphasized the need for Jameis Winston to play a smart, efficient game if he starts, as the Saints’ defense is known for its slow starts. He encouraged fans to share their thoughts on Loomis’s comments and the upcoming game against the Panthers.
This discussion sheds light on the potential challenges the Saints face in their upcoming game and the broader issues within the organization. The question remains: can the Saints overcome these hurdles and secure a much-needed victory?
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