Saints No Longer 'Sugarcoating' An 'Inconsistent' Season
Cam Jordan's honest assessment, "There's no sugarcoating this.... It's frustrating to be in this position," per Kat Terrell, points to the actual state of the New Orleans Saints. The team is "consistently inconsistent," per Dennis Allen, and in an "identity crisis," per Alvin Kamara.
Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr (4) is brought down by Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Kobie Turner (91) during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
SAINTS' CURRENT REALITY
Here are facts about the 2023-24 New Orleans Saints:
- New Orleans has defeated just one team with a winning record, the Indianapolis Colts.
- Dennis Allen has a 22-46 (32.4%) record as a head football coach in the National Football League. In New Orleans, he's 14-18 (43.8%).
- Derek Carr has a 7-8 record as the starter. Last season, Andy Dalton posted a 6-8 record as the starter. Jameis Winston was 1-2 in 20220-23.
- The Saints' offensive production under Sean Payton had one negative Simple Rating System season (-1.5) in 2021. Carmichael has two in two seasons, -2.8 (2022) and -0.1 (2023).
Losing is just as contagious as winning can be for a sports team. Two games remain in the season, and the Saints' fate is out of their control. They must win both games, and Tampa Bay and Atlanta must lose. Scenarios are for losers hoping to play the odds.
Should New Orleans gain a playoff berth as the NFC South Division leader and host an NFC Wild Card game, would they be able to defeat Dallas, Minnesota, or Los Angeles? A repeat of the Rams at Caesars Superdome, wouldn't that be an epic game...hmmm.
Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; New Orleans Saints coach Dennis Allen watches from the sidelines against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
DENNIS ALLEN AND PRESSING QUESTIONS
The probability of Executive Vice President and General Manager Mickey Loomis parting ways with head coach Dennis Allen is low. Ian Rapoport reported, "Dennis Allen is in a good spot."
- Would Allen make moves within his staff?
- How would VP of Football Operations Khai Harley, handle the over $80M salary cap issues this offseason?
- Are the Saints prepared to allow older players to walk in free agency or via releases?
- Can the team solve the offensive and defensive line issues?
Let's repeat from above: Coach Allen has a 14-18 record in New Orleans and will remain the team's leader. Hence, Saints fans must come to terms with Allen's return - or give Mickey Loomis viable names to pursue...which aren't many at the moment.
