Keep the momentum going.
After the Carolina pummeling, I asked: ‘Can the Patriots maintain their high level of play against an elite opponent?’
Now, coming off the biggest and most impressive win of the probably the last half decade for the Patriots, the question becomes: ‘How do the Pats react to such a big win?’
Are we good enough for trap games?
The New Orleans Saints are certainly not in the tier of the Bills, but they do have talent. They notched their first win last week against a Giants team that handed them five turnovers, and I imagine would like to build on that success.
Despite being 1-4, the Saints do have some talent among their ranks. Rashid Shaheed is a threat to score from anywhere on the field, and skill position players, like Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave, and Juwan Johnson are all capable of troubling the Patriots defense.
Defensively, players like DeMario Davis, Brian Bresee, and Kool-Aid McKinstry are all talented players.
I say this to say, the Saints are not doing to roll over and concede to the Patriots in their own building. The Pats have the ability and the form to convincingly defeat New Orleans, but they are going to have to earn it.
The Giants demonstrated that if you allow the Saints to remain in a game, they are talented enough to win it.
The Patriots will have to make sure that they do not let their first taste of success go to their heads. Head coach Mike Vrabel will have to keep the Pats grounded and focused to get a win in the Big Easy.
Key match-ups
Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has overachieved this season, with six touchdowns and one interception. However, he does have seven turnover worthy throws.
If the Patriots can capitalise on those plays, it could be a log day for Rattler.
The other key battle is in the trenches.
Will Campbell has been a stud so far in 2025. Nonetheless, Carl Granderson is a big, long pass rusher, who has notched five sacks in five games this season. His length and speed could be a test for Campbell, who was criticised for his lack of length.
I am taking the Pats to escape New Orleans with 31-13 win.
