The New Orleans Saints made a strong start in their game against the Los Angeles Chargers after deferring the opening toss, putting pressure on the Chargers early on. Quarterback Justin Herbert struggled, completing just one of his first five passes as the Saints’ defense dominated the Chargers’ initial two drives. A mistake during the Chargers’ second punt, involving the long snapper and punter JK Scott, resulted in a safety, giving the Saints a 2-0 lead.
In the second quarter, the score resembled a low-scoring baseball match when the Chargers managed to take a slight lead with a 46-yard field goal, bringing the score to 3-2. The Saints’ defense continued to apply pressure, nearly intercepting Herbert on a near miss by Elijah Molden. After some costly penalties for the Saints, the Chargers were able to score a touchdown, although they failed to convert the extra point, extending their lead to 9-2.
Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler responded effectively, leading the team downfield and setting up a field goal, which reduced the deficit to 9-5 by halftime.
Throughout the third quarter, the Saints’ defense maintained its intensity against Herbert. A sack by Scott Matlock and a forced incompletion by Daiyan Henley highlighted their efforts. Although the Chargers scored a 60-yard touchdown, the Saints delivered an exciting moment when Bud Dupree helped Alvin Kamara turn a short run into a first down. The Saints then kicked a field goal to bring the score to 16-8.
With the defense holding up and the offense showing potential, the Saints remained competitive, setting the stage for a critical fourth quarter. However, the Chargers quickly added a field goal, establishing a two-score lead. The Saints managed to advance back downfield but could only reach field goal range, where kicker Blake Grupe missed a shot, finishing the day 2-for-3 in attempts.
Rattler ended the day with just over 150 passing yards and faced limited success on the ground before being replaced in the fourth quarter. Alvin Kamara was the standout performer for the Saints, leading the rushing attack with 65 yards.
The Chargers added another score before the game concluded, extinguishing any remaining hopes of a Saints comeback. The Saints will face the Carolina Panthers in their next matchup on Sunday.