The New Orleans Saints look to continue their hot start to the season against the Green Bay Packers. This may be the best offense the Saints have faced this year, the Packers come in with the second ranked scoring offense. Health is a question for the Packers, so there are no players with an injury designation on the players to watch list.
Their defense is full of homegrown talent. The Packers have spent their four first round draft picks in the last three years on defenders. These are the offensive and defensive players you need to pay attention to Sunday afternoon.
Jaire Alexander
Alexander is the Packers’ shutdown cornerback. The Packers will likely play sides, so Chris Olave, Michael Thomas and Rashid Shaheed will all line up in front of Alexander. Alexander is a great corner but don’t expect New Orleans to shy away from the change. Derek Carr has faith in his receivers and will likely go at Alexander a few times.
Rashan Gary
Rashan Gary is still working his way back from the ACL injury that ended his 2022 season. When he’s been on the field, it’s typically a sign Green Bay is rushing the passer. He recorded half of a sack and a quarterback hit against the Atlanta Falcons. The Saints have struggled to protect Derek Carr and should look out for 52 along the defensive line.
Jordan Love
The fourth year quarterback has yet to turn the ball over this year. He’s protected the football without being limited to short passes and check downs. According to PFF, Love ranks 7th among quarterbacks in percentage of passes attempted 20 yards downfield. This makes the loss of cornerback Paulson Adebo even more important.
Jayden Reed
One of the players Love might target down the field is Jayden Reed. The rookie wide receiver had his first two receiving touchdowns last week. Christian Watson may make his season debut this week. If not, this is the receiver to watch. He leads the team in receptions and all Packers wide receivers in yards. Also, all but one of his catches has resulted in a first down.
