Jake Haener: Saints Post-Game Interview | Week 1, 2023 Preseason

New Orleans Saints rookie quarterback Jake Haener talks about his first preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

New Orleans Saints rookie quarterback Jake Haener led the team into scoring position for the last-second 31-yard field goal from fellow rookie placekicker Blake Grupe. The Fresno State product played the entire second half on seven possessions for New Orleans. He connected on 10/17 attempts for 105 passing yards, one touchdown, and an interception.

HAENER'S POSSESSIONS

1. NO 33-yard line at 11:57, Q3. The drive lasted 1:13 for 3 plays and 7 yards; Punt
2. NO 46-yard line at 8:40, Q3; The drive lasted 28 seconds on for 3 plays and -8 yards; Interception.
3. NO 10-yard line at 6:02, Q3; The drive lasted 3:40 for 6 plays and 27 yards, 1 first down; Punt.
4. NO 24-yard line at 15:00, Q4; The drive lasted 2:45 for 4 plays and 31 yards, 1 first down; Punt.
5. NO 23-yard line at 6:17, Q4; The drive lasted 4:29 for 3 plays, 17 yards, 1 10-yard penalty, 7 net yards; Punt.
6. NO 24-yard line at 3:22, Q4; The drive lasted 2:02 for 6 plays, 48 yards, +28 penalty yards, 76 net yards, 6 first downs; TOUCHDOWN.
7. KC 22 following an interception at 58 seconds, Q4; The drive lasted 58 seconds for 4 plays, 9 yards; FIELD GOAL.

HAENER'S SCORING DRIVES

1. Jake Haener had a short right pass to running back Ellis Merriweather for a 2-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion attempt failed as Haener was stopped short on a rush up the middle. 1:25 TOP
2. Placekick Blake Grupe kicked a 31-yard field goal as time expired. 58 seconds TOP

Jake Haener discusses defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1 of the preseason. He covers defensive strategies, his thought process, past achievements, teamwork and preparation, staying focused, and executing under pressure.

KEY POINTS FROM HAENER'S INTERVIEW

• Appreciation for Derek and Jameis being present
• Different defensive strategies faced by Derek (such as shell and man coverage)
• Valuing Derek's thought process and game analysis
• Praise for Derek's past achievements as an elite player for ten years
• Impressed by a kid who loves playing football
• Building connection and rhythm through timing and chatting with teammates
• The mistake on a two-point conversion play was due to miscommunication
• The learning curve from college to NFL
• Impressive opening drive by Derek with good throws
• Pride in competitive nature and ability to perform under pressure
• The mindset of moving on from mistakes and focusing on the next play to win the game
• Acknowledgment of Derek Carr's role in their preparation
• Carr's engagement in discussing and analyzing plays during the first half
• Carr's input contributes to readiness for the second half
• Reflection on the last drive and overcoming initial miscommunication and challenges
• Importance of having a short-term memory and staying positive and focused
• Feeling comfortable and in control during successful drives
• Importance of good communication and getting into the flow of the game
• The urgency of the situation enables focus and high-level execution
• Playing with a react mindset and believing in belonging in those moments

KEY HAENER QUOTES

The Importance of Staying Positive and Focused: "I think it's just staying positive, staying focused, staying task-oriented, one play at a time, and ultimately found a way to get it done." — Jake Haener 00:00:2900:00:37

"Insights from Derek: 'Having a guy that's been elite for ten years and done some really good things was great.'" — Jake Haener 00:02:0200:02:05

Derek Carr's Love for Football and Clutch Plays: "The kid grinds. He loves football, and I think in this now, everybody's about making a living and doing something positive for your family and the people around you. But that kid just loves playing football, and I gravitate towards him, and I thought he was a known outlet for me today. Obviously, you show what he could do, and hopefully, we can string it together for the next two weeks." — Jake Haener 00:02:0700:02:26

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