CRITICAL: 3 Key Issues the Saints Must Address Before Facing the Rams in Week 13

The New Orleans Saints are back from their bye week to host the Los Angeles Rams, and they’ll need to address a few key issues to secure their third consecutive victory.

The New Orleans Saints have enjoyed a strong turnaround over the past three weeks. After hitting a low point with a Week 9 loss to the Carolina Panthers, the team has been steadily improving. They snapped their seven-game losing streak in Week 10 and followed up with another victory in Week 11. After taking a much-needed bye in Week 12, the Saints are back and eager to close out the season on a high note.

This Sunday, New Orleans will aim for a third straight win. However, despite their recent success, there are still critical areas that need improvement. Here are three key issues the Saints must address before facing the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13:

 

3. The Defense Must Prevent Big Plays

The Saints defense allowed just 14 points against the Cleveland Browns in Week 11, their second-best performance of the season in terms of points allowed. However, that number is misleading. The Browns gained 443 total yards, with some coming from explosive plays, including an 89-yard touchdown pass. Limiting big plays has been a recurring challenge for the Saints, and if they want to defeat the Rams, the defense must step up and stop giving up chunk yardage.

2. Penalties Need to Be Reduced

Penalties have been a persistent problem for New Orleans, even during their recent victories. In Week 11, they were penalized five times for 41 yards, compared to just three penalties for 14 yards by the Browns.

In Week 10, the Saints had eight penalties for 76 yards against Atlanta, significantly more than the Falcons’ six penalties for 45 yards.

These costly mistakes hurt momentum and field position, and the Saints must play cleaner football to ensure success in Week 13.

 1. Wide Receiver Production Must Improve

With key wideouts Rashid Shaheed and Chris Olave sidelined, Marquez Valdes-Scantling has carried the burden for the Saints’ receiving corps. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been much help from other receivers.

Against Cleveland, the rest of the wideouts managed just two catches for 27 yards. While the Saints’ running backs and tight ends have contributed in the passing game, it’s crucial for the other wide receivers to step up and provide more support moving forward.

By addressing these issues, the Saints can put themselves in a better position to secure their third straight win and continue their push for a strong finish to the season.

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