As the Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) prepare to face the New Orleans Saints (2-0) at the Caesars Superdome on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 5:00 PM ET, several key players will be important in determining the outcome of this clash. Both teams boast talented rosters, and here are three players from each side to watch during the game.
Philadelphia Eagles
1. Jalen Hurts, Quarterback
Hurts has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. So far in the 2024 season, he has thrown for 278 yards, completing 58.8% of his passes with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions in his first game. Hurts is also a dual-threat quarterback, adding 118 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns to his statistics. His ability to extend plays and make crucial throws under pressure will be essential for the Eagles’ offense against the Saints’ defense.
2. Saquon Barkley, Running Back
Barkley has been a standout player for the Eagles this season. In his first game, he ran for 109 yards on 24 carries, averaging 4.5 yards each time he had the ball, and scored 2 touchdowns. He’s also good at catching passes, adding 44 receiving yards. This makes him really important to the Eagles’ offense, and his upcoming game against the Saints will be key, especially since the Saints have had trouble stopping the run.
3. DeVonta Smith, Wide Receiver
Smith steps up as the Eagles’ top receiving threat with A.J. Brown sidelined due to a hamstring injury. He had back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons and, therefore, will be a primary target for Hurts. In the opening game, Smith recorded 77 receiving yards on 5 receptions. Additionally, his ability to create separation and make contested catches will be crucial in stretching the Saints’ defense and, ultimately, helping the Eagles win.
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Now, let’s look at some New Orleans Saints players who can shift the game in their favor.
New Orleans Saints
1. Derek Carr, Quarterback
Carr has made an impressive start to the season, throwing for 443 yards with 5 touchdowns and only 1 interception in his first game. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and read defenses will be crucial against an Eagles team that has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 399.5 total yards per game so far this season. Saints Carr’s experience and leadership will be decisive as he looks to exploit any weaknesses in Eagles’ defense.
2. Alvin Kamara, Running Back
Kamara remains one of the most versatile running backs in the NFL. In fact, in his first game of the season, he rushed for 198 yards, averaging an impressive 5.66 yards per carry, along with 4 rushing touchdowns. Kamara’s ability to impact both the running and passing games makes him a key player in the Saints’ offensive scheme. The Eagles will need to find ways to contain him if they hope to limit New Orleans’ scoring opportunities.
3. Chris Olave, Wide Receiver
Olave has emerged as a key receiving threat for the Saints this season, recording 92 receiving yards on 8 receptions in his opening game. His speed and route-running ability allow him to stretch defenses vertically, making him a dangerous target for Carr. Olave is getting to know Carr better, which might help him find openings in the Eagles’ defense and lead the Saints to victory.
Both teams are getting ready for this exciting game, and these players will play an important role in helping their teams score. They could help decide who wins this big game between two strong teams.
