With the conclusion of the NFL Draft and key additions added to the roster, the build-up for the 2023 regular season for the New Orleans Saints is in full swing. The Saints have addressed critical needs in positions such as quarterback, running back, tight end, and defensive tackle. There will also be opportunities to add more talent to the roster as training camp awaits. According to Over the Cap, New Orleans currently has $14 million in cap space. So do not be surprised if the Saints use the cap space to sign another impact player that can enhance their roster.
Regarding their 2023 schedule, it is projected by many league analysts and sports betting sites as one of the easiest in the league right now. However, it’s still difficult to predict how things may turn out based on not knowing how the Saints’ opponents will perform once the season starts. Today, we will provide a game-by-game preview of each matchup and list the factors the Saints will face in each contest.
Week 1: Tennessee Titans (Home)
The Saints kick off their highly anticipated 2023 regular season with a home game against the formidable Tennessee Titans. This matchup marks their first encounter with an opponent from the AFC South this year, setting the stage for an intriguing clash. As the Saints take the field for their season opener, all eyes will be on their defense, which faces a substantial challenge. Last season, New Orleans struggled to contain the run, ranking near the bottom of the league in run defense. This weakness will be tested against a Titans team that boasts one of the most dominant running backs in the game: Derrick Henry.
In their previous two meetings against the Titans, the Saints caught a break by not having to contend with Henry. However, in Week 1 of the 2023 campaign, they must devise a game plan to contain his explosive running style. The outcome of this crucial early-season showdown will indicate the Saints’ defensive improvement and ability to neutralize a potent ground attack.
Week 2: Carolina Panthers (Away)
In Week 2, the New Orleans Saints hit the road for a highly anticipated matchup against their NFC South rival, the Carolina Panthers, in a primetime showdown on ESPN’s Monday Night Football. This game holds particular significance as it marks the Saints’ first opportunity to face off against the Panthers’ highly touted rookie quarterback, Bryce Young, who was selected as the number one overall pick in this year’s draft. The Saints’ defense will be eager to test their mettle against the young signal-caller and showcase their ability to disrupt his game.
Adding to the intrigue, the Panthers have made significant moves in free agency and garnered attention from league analysts, positioning them as the favorites to conquer the fiercely competitive NFC South. As the Saints embark on this pivotal early-season clash, they can make a statement against a divisional rival and showcase their championship aspirations by thwarting the Panthers’ lofty expectations.
Week 3: Green Bay Packers (Away)
In Week 3, the New Orleans Saints face the Green Bay Packers on the road, entering a new era in Lambeau Field. While the Saints have engaged in memorable battles with Aaron Rodgers in the past, the 2023 season significantly changes the Packers’ quarterback situation.
With Rodgers now donning the New York Jets’ colors, the Saints will shift their focus to unsettling his replacement, Jordan Love. This presents a unique opportunity for the Saints to exploit the potential inexperience of a young quarterback and disrupt the Packers’ offensive rhythm. Adding to the favorable circumstances, the game in Green Bay will take place in September rather than the bone-chilling months of November and December, a factor that typically favors the home team.
This shift in timing may work in the Saints’ favor, as they won’t have to contend with the freezing conditions that Lambeau Field is known for later in the season. As the Saints square off against the Packers, they will capitalize on these advantageous factors to secure a crucial early-season victory and build momentum for future games.
Week 4: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Home)
Following a two-week absence from the comforts of the Cesars Superdome, the New Orleans Saints make a highly anticipated return to their home turf to face the reigning and defending NFC South champions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, there has been a significant change in the Buccaneers’ quarterback situation since their previous encounter. The legendary Tom Brady, who posed a formidable challenge for the Saints in their last matchups, is no longer leading the charge for Tampa Bay. Instead, the Buccaneers will rely on Kyle Trask or former number-one overall pick Baker Mayfield to guide their offense. This transition presents a unique opportunity for the Saints to exploit potential uncertainties at the quarterback position and regain the upper hand against their divisional rivals.
In the 2022 season, the Buccaneers broke the Saints’ four-game regular-season losing streak, defeating New Orleans in both meetings. As the two teams meet again in 2023, the Saints will have revenge on their minds, fueled by the desire to settle the score and reestablish their dominance in the NFC South. Expect a fierce and intense showdown where the Black and Gold will leave no stone unturned in their quest for redemption.
Week 5: New England Patriots (Away)
In Week 5, the New Orleans Saints face yet another team with connections to the legendary quarterback, Tom Brady. This time, they square off against the New England Patriots, a team with significant historical significance for the Saints. In 2009, the Saints’ resounding 38-17 victory over the Patriots served as a defining moment, solidifying their status as a legitimate Super Bowl contender. As the Saints prepare to face New England again, the quarterback situation for the Patriots remains uncertain. By this point in the season, Bailey Zappe or Mac Jones will lead the Patriots offense. It is worth noting that there have been indications that head coach Bill Belichick is not entirely sold on Jones as the long-term solution at quarterback. However, Jones’ development under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien may sway Belichick’s perspective on the former Crimson Tide standout.
During the offseason, the Patriots bolstered their offense by securing the services of wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and tight end Mike Gesicki in free agency. These additions potentially boost New England’s aerial attack, creating additional challenges for the Saints’ defense. As the Saints face the Patriots on the road, they will aim to recreate the magic of their previous victory over New England while navigating the obstacles presented by a revamped Patriots roster.
Week 6: Houston Texans (Away)
In Week 6, the New Orleans Saints face their second rookie quarterback of the 2023 season as they take on the Houston Texans on the road. The Texans selected CJ Stroud with the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, making him the latest addition to the league’s promising young signal-callers. This game against the Texans marks the first back-to-back matchup against AFC South opponents for the Saints.
However, Houston’s impact in the draft extended beyond their quarterback selection. They made a bold move by trading up to acquire Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson with the third overall pick. ESPN reports revealed that the Texans traded their No. 12 and 33 picks and their 2024 first- and third-round picks to the Arizona Cardinals to secure the coveted third pick in the draft.
Anderson, widely regarded as the top edge rusher in this year’s class by many draft experts, adds a formidable presence to the Texans’ defense. As the Saints face the Texans on their home turf, they must devise a game plan to neutralize the dual threats posed by Stroud and Anderson while striving to secure a crucial victory on the road in their quest for playoff contention.
Week 7: Jacksonville Jaguars (Home)
The Saints face what could be their first significant challenge of the 2023 season as they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at home. The Jaguars enter this matchup on the back of their first division title since 2017, signaling their resurgence as a competitive force in the league. Led by the talented and promising quarterback Trevor Lawrence and under the guidance of head coach Doug Pederson, the Jaguars present a formidable test for the Saints.
By this point in the season, the Saints should have a clearer understanding of their standing in the hierarchy of the NFC. This game against the Jaguars will serve as a crucial benchmark, allowing the Saints to assess their progress and measure themselves against a rising team within their conference. A victory against the Jaguars would bolster the Saints’ confidence and solidify their position as a serious playoff contender.
Week 8: Indianapolis Colts (Away)
New Orleans concludes their slate against the AFC South as they face the Indianapolis Colts on the road. This matchup presents another opportunity for the Saints to challenge a rookie quarterback as they go up against Anthony Richardson, whom the Colts selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Facing a talented rookie signal-caller has become a recurring theme for the Saints throughout the season, and this game against the Colts marks their final encounter with a rookie quarterback from the AFC South.
As the Saints strive to solidify their position as a playoff contender, they must devise a game plan to disrupt Richardson’s rhythm and exploit any potential weaknesses in his game. A victory against the Colts would extend the Saints’ success against AFC South opponents and serve as an important stepping stone in their quest for postseason aspirations. With the regular season progressing, the Saints will capitalize on this matchup to solidify their standing in the NFC.
Week 9: Chicago Bears (Home)
An intriguing matchup awaits the New Orleans Saints in Week 9 as they face off against the Chicago Bears at home. The Bears made notable moves to improve their roster leading up to the 2023 season, particularly in maneuvering within the draft. Trading out of the first overall pick, Chicago secured the ninth overall selection, along with two additional first-round picks and two second-round picks. This draft compensation allowed them to build a more vital supporting cast around their young and talented quarterback, Justin Fields. In a significant trade, the Bears also acquired explosive wide receiver DJ Moore from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for the rights to the first overall pick.
With Moore now serving as Fields’ primary target, the Bears’ offense has received a significant boost, and the future looks promising. In addition to their draft moves, the Bears made critical upgrades to their roster during free agency. They secured highly coveted free agents such as T.J. Edwards, Tremaine Edmunds, Nate Davis, and DeMarcus Walker, further solidifying their team on both sides. As the Saints prepare to take on the Bears, they must be ready to face an improved Chicago team that has made significant strides in bolstering their roster for the 2023 season.
Week 10: Minnesota Vikings (Away)
When the New Orleans Saints and the Minnesota Vikings clash, history has shown that we can expect nothing short of thrilling and dramatic outcomes. This storied rivalry has been defined by unforgettable moments, from the heartbreak of the Minneapolis Miracle to the triumph of Tracey Porter’s interception against Brett Favre in the 2009 NFC title game. Let’s not forget the controversy surrounding Kyle Rudolph’s push-off on PJ Williams in the 2020 Wild Card game. Each play has added to the rich tapestry of one of the NFL’s most compelling matchups. The 2023 encounter promises to be no different.
The Saints will be fueled by a burning desire to avenge last season’s loss to the Vikings, a hard-fought contest that took place overseas in London. The Saints fell short to Minnesota in an overtime thriller in that back-and-forth battle. As they face off again on the Vikings’ home turf, the Saints will be determined to rewrite the narrative and come away with a statement victory. The intensity and history between these two teams ensure that this matchup will be one to watch, where the outcome hangs in the balance until the final whistle.
Week 12: Atlanta Falcons (Away)
Week 12 marks the beginning of Falcons Hate Week for the passionate Who Dat Nation, as New Orleans travels to Atlanta for their first clash with their fierce rivals this season. The matchup against the Falcons holds immense significance, as it could shape the outcome of the highly competitive NFC South division. Many believe that the Falcons are the Saints’ biggest threat within the division, and their success hinges on the Saints’ ability to maintain their performance level. To bolster their struggling defense, the Falcons made notable moves during the early stages of free agency.
They secured the services of former Saints players Kaden Ellis and David Onyemata, who will bring their skills and familiarity with the Saints’ system to Atlanta. The Falcons added another playmaker to their talented roster by selecting running back Bijan Robinson out of Texas in the draft. Under the leadership of second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder, the Falcons will aim to exploit their offensive firepower and make a statement against their archrivals.
Week 13: Detroit Lions (Home)
In Week 13, the Saints play host to the Detroit Lions in a significant matchup for both teams. The Lions closed out the 2022 season with an impressive 9-8 record, coming tantalizingly close to securing their first playoff berth since 2016. As they enter the 2023 season with high expectations, this game against the Saints will serve as a crucial measuring stick to gauge their progress under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell.
The matchup carries added intrigue as Saints running back Jamaal Williams faces his former team. Williams played a pivotal role in the Lions’ ascent as potential playoff contenders last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and leading the league in rushing touchdowns with 17. His return to Detroit will undoubtedly inspire Williams and the Lions’ defense, who will be keen to contain their former teammate. This game allows the Saints to demonstrate their defensive prowess and test their mettle against an emerging Lions team.
Week 14: Carolina Panthers (Home)
In Week 14, the New Orleans Saints have the opportunity for a rematch against the Carolina Panthers, led by rookie quarterback Bryce Young. As the season progresses, the Saints’ record will play a crucial role in determining their aspirations, including the possibility of securing home-field advantage in the playoffs. This game against the Panthers will carry added significance as the Saints aim to maximize their chances of success and position themselves favorably for the postseason. With the importance of every victory magnified, the Saints will look to make the most of their home-field advantage and secure a pivotal win against their divisional rivals.
Week 15: New York Giants (Home)
The matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the New York Giants brings memories of their clash during the 2021 season. In that previous encounter, the Saints relinquished an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter, resulting in a heartbreaking overtime defeat. As the teams reconvene in 2023, much has changed in their respective outlooks. Under the guidance of second-year head coach Brian Dabol, the Giants made a triumphant return to the playoffs in 2022, ending a postseason drought dating back to 2016. In contrast, the Saints have experienced significant transformations, particularly at critical positions such as quarterback, and have grappled with the impact of injuries to key players, most notably Michael Thomas.
Additionally, the Saints have not tasted postseason action since 2022, further motivating them to reclaim their spot among the league’s elite. This Week 13 rematch carries the weight of redemption for New Orleans as they seek to rectify the previous loss against the Giants and reestablish their postseason aspirations. With both teams having undergone notable changes, this clash will test their resilience, adaptability, and desire to secure a vital victory.
Week 16: Los Angeles Rams (Road)
The Thursday Night Football contest against the Los Angeles Rams carries the weight of previous encounters between the two teams. Last season, the Saints secured a victory to avenge their 2019 NFC Championship Game loss, although the stakes were relatively low. As the 2023 season unfolds, the storyline surrounding this matchup remains to be seen. Will both teams find themselves in a similar position, or will the dynamics and implications of the game take a different turn? The answer will unfold on the field as the Saints and Rams collide in what promises to be an intriguing battle.
Wait – we’ve seen this movie before. Chris Olave 53-yard 💣 for a touchdown in the Superdome. pic.twitter.com/0jvng5UIc2
— Eleven Warriors (@11W) November 20, 2022
Week 17: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Road)
The final matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is vital for New Orleans. As the Buccaneers navigate the season, the Saints are in a favorable position to potentially sweep their once-hated rival with Tom Brady at the helm. With the Atlanta Falcons potentially hot on their heels in the race for the division crown, a victory against Tampa Bay becomes a crucial necessity for the Saints.
Week 18: Atlanta Falcons
The New Orleans Saints culminate their 2023 season with a highly anticipated showdown against their arch-rivals, the Atlanta Falcons. The intensity of this longstanding rivalry may be further amplified as the game’s broadcast details have yet to be determined, potentially leading to a primetime setting. With the NFC South possibly hanging in the balance, the outcome of this final matchup holds immense significance for both teams. As the Saints look to assert their dominance and secure their place atop the division, this clash against the Falcons could shape the postseason picture and determine the ultimate victor in the highly competitive NFC South.
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