Saints Assess Tyler Shough’s Performance in Longest Gameplay Yet
Tyler Shough, a rookie quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, showcased his potential in his longest gameplay opportunity during Week 8. Shough stepped in for Spencer Rattler late in the third quarter of a challenging 23-3 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His performance yielded an unremarkable 17 completions out of 30 attempts for 128 yards, yet it revealed glimpses of promise.
Shough’s Performance Overview
Despite the loss, Shough’s decisive gameplay stood out, with an average time to throw of 2.48 seconds. This statistic ranked him third among NFL quarterbacks in Week 8. His ability to quickly assess defenses was evident. Shough made two attempts for deep passes, recognizing coverage and seeking opportunities downfield. Although neither pass was successful, they demonstrated his understanding of the game.
Key Highlights
- Shough narrowly missed connecting with Rashid Shaheed for a touchdown.
- A completed 40-yard pass to Chris Olave showcased his ability to place the ball accurately.
- Coaches noted his improved pocket awareness since preseason, although he had moments of difficulty with pressure.
Missed Opportunities
Shough’s performance included several missed chances that could have shifted the game’s momentum. Key plays that fell short included:
- First pass attempt to Shaheed missed for a possible nine-yard gain.
- Third-down throw to Olave resulted in an interception rather than a first down.
- A contested catch opportunity for tight end Juwan Johnson that could have kept a drive alive was unsuccessful.
- A late pass to Johnson sailed high, missing a likely 15-yard gain.
Overall, Shough played 39 offensive snaps, primarily in a comeback scenario. This limited exposure hinders a comprehensive evaluation of both his performance and grasp of the offense.
Looking Ahead: Challenging Matchup for the Saints
The Saints face a formidable challenge in the upcoming week. They will take on the 5-2 Los Angeles Rams, a team returning from a bye week. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the Rams, maintaining high performance at 37 years old. This season, he ranks fifth in the NFL for passing success rate and is a crucial part of a play-action offense that ranks second in usage.
Defensively, the Rams feature a young and dynamic defensive line. Notable edge rushers Byron Young and Jared Verse have combined for an impressive 13 sacks this season. With the Rams ranked second in the NFL with a total of 26 team sacks, Shough and the Saints will need to be prepared for a challenging matchup.
As the Saints consider their future direction, evaluating Tyler Shough further is essential. His in-game experiences and adaptations will be pivotal as the season progresses.
