New Orleans Saints (5-9) – Washington Commanders (9-5): 20-19
Remaining on 3 victories in the last four meetings, the Saints had a slim hope of the playoffs. Deprived of Derek Carr, the game did not look easy against the solid Commanders.
The men from the capital quickly made the difference before stalling. Unable to drive home the point after returning from the locker room, Washington suffered a huge scare. Letting the Saints score with 3 seconds left in the game, it was a missed 2-point conversion that gave them the victory.
Symbol of the Commanders' performances this season, Jayden Daniels (25/31, 226 yards, 2 TDs) and his number 1 receiver had given their team the upper hand. Two touchdowns in 3 possessions, the match was going to be one-sided and the victory easy. Except that the duo lost their connection in the 2nd half. Several opportunities wasted by a lack of details from the two men. A lack of precision which could have been very costly.
The attack of the Saints from nothing is almost a feat
It seems a long way from the start of the season when the New Orleans attack seemed so strong with its 91 points accumulated in the first two games. If the injuries weigh very heavily, the offensive result nonetheless remains very sad. Only 67 yards gained in the first half (38 if we deduct the yards lost on sacks). Only one professional receiver affected. It’s Alvin Kamara who becomes target number 1.
Jake Haener's performance sent him to the bench in the 2nd half, giving way to Spencer Rattler. If he lacks precision, the rookie at least has the merit of bringing the leather to life a little. And New Orleans finally scores points. Kamara is at the conclusion of a pass from… Cedrick Wilson. Then two field goals to get back to one possession.
Because the defense keeps the Saints alive, harassing Daniels with 8 sacks, and slowing down the attack at the end of the game, forcing a long, missed field goal. An unexpected opportunity to get an extension or better. And finally, the Saints advance. Rattler finds Foster Moreau with 3 seconds remaining. But instead of seeking an extra point extension, the locals tried to win with a 2-point conversion. Failure. Washington comes out of it and takes another step towards the playoffs. Without convincing.
