Saints (7-10 last season) vs Chargers (10-7 last year)
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers 8/20/2023. New Orleans realigns to bounce back by strengthening its roster and preseason strategy. Following a challenging season marred by a quarterback grappling with injuries and underperformance, New Orleans concluded last year with a 7-10 record. As previously mentioned, the lineup for wide receivers will now be enriched by a multitude of additional assets in the upcoming season. While the Saints’ primary running back, Alvin Kamara is set to miss the initial three matches due to suspension, the team has been proactive in fortifying the running back position by acquiring Jamaal Williams and selecting Kendre Miller in the draft.
As quarterback Derek Carr takes to the field, his arsenal of targets includes not only the returning Michael Thomas, but also the addition of WR Chris Olave, heralded as the top receiver in 2022. This formidable offensive lineup is further enhanced by the presence of two outstanding tight ends, Graham and Juwan Johnson.
With a veteran team that comprehends the importance of preseason preparation, Staley, the coach, has opted to conserve his players’ energy during this preseason. Consequently, players like Herbert, running back Austin Ekeler, and wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams will see limited action, if any, during the preseason. Similarly, defensive pillars such as defensive end Joey Bosa, edge player Khalil Mack, and cornerbacks J.C. Jackson and Asante Samuel Jr., who are recuperating from injuries, are expected to exercise caution as they make their comebacks this year. This strategic approach aims to position New Orleans for a successful rebound, backed by a revamped roster and a well-considered preseason strategy.
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Game Info
Time: 7:05 PM ET.
Date: Sunday, August 20, 2023
Location: SoFi Stadium, CA
TV: WVUE (Fox)
Stream: NFL.tv
New Orleans Saints QB Derek Carr and Los Angeles Chargers QB Justin Herbert
Derek Carr, a seasoned quarterback recently released by the Las Vegas Raiders, has found a new home with the New Orleans Saints this offseason. This former All-Pro quarterback brings a wealth of talent to the team, positioning them as contenders for potential victory in the NFC South Division. Carr’s acquisition marks a significant addition to the Saints’ roster, making him perhaps the most formidable quarterback the team has seen since the era of Drew Brees.
Carr displayed his prowess in the preseason opener, delivering a commendable performance by completing 6 out of 8 passes for a total of 70 yards and a touchdown. The return of wide receiver Michael Thomas from injury and tight end Jimmy Graham, who rejoined the Saints in the offseason, added an extra layer of strength to the team’s offensive strategy.
Backing up Carr, quarterback Jameis Winston demonstrated his capabilities by orchestrating a scoring drive that led to a 26-24 victory over the Chiefs. Impressively, even the second-string offense showcased sharp execution during the game.
Shifting the focus to the Chargers, the team boasts the talented Justin Herbert as their current and future quarterback. Supported by a plethora of offensive options, the Chargers possess the potential to be a dominant force in the NFL when their defense is operating at full strength. This season, the introduction of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, a former Dallas OC, under the leadership of head coach Brandon Staley, signifies a notable addition. Moore’s responsibility encompasses nurturing Herbert’s development and harnessing the full extent of the team’s resources in their pursuit to dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs from their reign in the AFC West Division.
Odds/Point Spread: New Orleans Saints -3, Total Odds: 37.5
Sunday night’s preseason football will witness the collision of two divergent coaching philosophies. The upcoming game will reflect a continuation of Saints head coach Matt Allen’s commitment to granting significant playing time to select starters—a practice already evident in previous preseason encounters. This trend is anticipated to persist throughout this particular match. Carr demonstrated notable composure in the first game in his brief appearance, orchestrating a touchdown drive that showcased the Saints’ offensive prowess. Furthermore, backup quarterback Jameson is expected to receive ample opportunities to take the field.
The former starter, now serving as a backup, is projected to exhibit a commendable performance against the Chargers’ defensive lineup, primarily composed of second and third-team players. Chargers’ head coach Brandon Staley has adopted a more cautious approach this offseason, responding to the injuries that plagued the team in the previous year. Given this cautious stance, Herbert, the team’s key quarterback, who sat out the entirety of the first preseason game, is unlikely to participate in more than one or two series in this upcoming match.
With a robust defensive line at their disposal, Staley emphasizes preserving his players’ health until the crucial games arrive. This strategic choice underscores the Chargers’ commitment to arriving at the season’s pivotal moments with a well-rested and potent roster.
New Orleans Saints Betting Trends
- New Orleans is 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games with the Los Angeles Chargers.
- The New Orleans Saints are 9-0 SU in their last 9 matches with the Chargers.
- The total went UNDER in 5 of New Orleans’ last 5 road games.
- The Saints are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games on the road against LA Chargers.
Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
- The total went OVER in 11 of the LA Chargers’ last 15 games with New Orleans.
- The Los Angeles Chargers are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games at home.
- The Chargers are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games at home against the Saints.
- The LA Chargers are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference.
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers Betting Trends
New Orleans Saints vs Los Angeles Chargers: Entering the second preseason game, both teams initiated their campaigns with an identical 1-0 record, outright and against the spread. The forthcoming match promises extended playing time for quarterbacks Herbert and Carr, as they continue their preparations. It’s worth noting that while the Chargers secured their victory on the road, albeit in the same city, this subtle distinction renders the early standings virtually indistinguishable. In essence, the teams find themselves in a remarkably balanced position.
The Saints concluded their 2022 season on a high note, winning three out of their last four games—a notable feat even before accounting for the addition of new recruit Derek Carr. Conversely, the Chargers experienced a relatively less favorable conclusion to their 2022 campaign, dropping two out of their last three games. Although the Chargers hold the home advantage, the dynamics are set for a compelling clash, with Derek Carr and his team poised to dominate and secure their second preseason triumph of the year.
Free Pick and Prediction: New Orleans Saints will win 24-20.
