Things have changed in New Orleans since Darren Rizzi has started leading the team into battle. The New Orleans Saints have won their last two games. Victories are product and the visual of the change, but it runs deeper than that.
Defensive end Cameron Jordan pointed towards a difference in mentality. It all started with the news Dennis Allen had been relieved of his duties: “The mental shift. When you hear from up top that you’re changing head coach positions. There’s one of two ways you can go,” Jordan told reporters. “You see teams that tank and you see teams like last year Raiders that had success. Which one do you want to be?”
This team is led by veterans who don’t have the most time left in this league. The direction they were aiming to go wasn’t even a question. They’re aiming for success, and so far, they’re hitting their mark.
Jordan also points to the ability to close out games as a reason for increased confidence. During the seven game losing streak, there were close games the Saints were able to finish. The Eagles and first Falcons game come to the mind. Then, the Saints closed the Falcons out to end their losing streak.
Those are the type of moments that feel like the tide is turning even if it’s the first win in two months.
