The New Orleans Saints have announced that rookie quarterback Tyler Shough will start in their upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams, following Spencer Rattler’s struggles on the field. This decision is part of a noticeable pivot in the team’s strategy as they try to breathe new life into their often stagnant offense.
Spencer Rattler’s starting gig was under extreme fire. He was even benched in the middle of this past week’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He only went 17-for-30 for 128 yards and an interception in that game. This performance was unfortunately part of a much larger, troubling trend. Rattler has been bad as a starter, going 1-13 overall as a starter since last year. His only win so far was when the Carolina Panthers beat the New York Giants in Week 5.
Rattler filled in for the injured Derek Carr during two different stretches last year. He even beat out Shough to win the starting job in training camp. After a strong start, Rattler’s play has severely cratered over the last two games. He has turned the ball over six times—four picks and two fumbles—over six quarters against the Chicago Bears and the Buccaneers. The lowlights of his performance featured a truly awful play leading to his interception returned for a touchdown by Anthony Nelson.
In addition to the turnovers, Rattler faced significant pressure from opposing defenses, being sacked seven times in his last six quarters of play. His struggles were obvious. Smith hadn’t seen much action prior to Sunday’s loss, only playing a handful of snaps late in a blowout win against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 3.
Given these flaws, Saints head coach Kellen Moore felt it necessary to look elsewhere. The team could definitely use a spark to light the fire under their anemic offense. They’re hoping that Tyler Shough’s new vibe is all it takes to shake things up. Shough will get his first NFL start in next week’s game against the Rams. He’ll be taking on an exciting role as the team looks to improve on their semifinal showing.
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