By Anthony “Tony” from the Westbank | WhoDatNation.com

Well, Who Dat Nation, here we go again.

Another week. Another football game. Another chance for our New Orleans Saints to prove they’re actually capable of playing sixty minutes of NFL football.

And after watching this team stumble to a 1–4 record, I’ve got to tell y’all something.

I’m running out of cigars, patience, and excuses.

Last week, I told the Saints to show me something different.

Instead, Minnesota came into the Superdome, held our offense to 142 total yards, and handed us our third straight loss.

Now we’re heading to New York to face the Giants.

And guess who’s waiting for us?

JAMEIS WINSTON!

That’s right. Our old quarterback.

The man who spent four seasons wearing the black and gold is now running the offense for the New York Giants.

And if you think Jameis wouldn’t love to beat his former team, I’ve got some beachfront property in the Ninth Ward I’d like to sell you.

But here’s what really makes this game interesting.

Saints owner Gayle Benson has finally said publicly what Saints fans have been screaming at their televisions for weeks.

This is unacceptable.

And now I’m wondering something.

If the Saints go to New York and lose to Jameis Winston, are some heads finally going to roll?

When Mrs. Benson Starts Talking, You Better Listen

I’ve been following this football team for a long time.

And one thing I’ve learned is that when the person who signs the checks starts publicly expressing disappointment, everybody in that building ought to pay attention.

This week, Gayle Benson made it clear that the Saints’ performance isn’t meeting expectations.

And you know what?

GOOD!

Because it isn’t.

We’re 1–4.

We’ve lost three straight games.

We’ve lost every home game we’ve played this season.

And we’ve managed to turn two special celebrations of Saints history into afternoons we’d all rather forget.

First, the twentieth anniversary of Domecoming.

Then, Drew Brees being honored in the Saints Ring of Honor.

Two incredible occasions.

Two embarrassing losses.

Now Mrs. Benson has spoken out, and on Friday she even showed up at practice.

Reports say she and Coach Kellen Moore shared a hug and a conversation.

That’s nice.

I’m glad everybody’s getting along.

But Tony from the Westbank has a question.

Can somebody hug this football team into blocking, tackling, and scoring touchdowns?

Because if that’s all it takes, I’ll drive to New Orleans myself and start hugging people.

Seriously, though, I don’t believe Gayle Benson showed up at practice just to create headlines. Owners visit practices, and Moore says they’re on the same page.

But nobody should mistake her support for satisfaction.

She wants results.

So do I.

And so does every Saints fan who’s spent money on tickets, jerseys, parking, and overpriced stadium beer.

Jameis Winston: Of Course It Had to Be Him

Now let’s talk about Jameis.

I always liked the guy.

Say what you want about his football decisions, but Jameis Winston never lacked personality.

He could make you jump out of your chair with a beautiful touchdown pass.

And five minutes later, he could make you throw the remote across the living room.

That’s Jameis.

You never knew exactly what you were going to get.

But the man loved New Orleans. He embraced this city, our fans, and our football team.

And now he’s getting another opportunity as the Giants’ starting quarterback.

Through his three starts, New York hasn’t lost with him running the show. They’re 2–0–1 in those games.

And the Giants are 3–1–1 overall.

Meanwhile, we’re 1–4 and still trying to figure out how to put together a decent offensive drive.

Tell me that doesn’t make your stomach turn.

Here’s the thing about Jameis.

He can be unpredictable. He can take chances. He can throw a football into a window that probably shouldn’t be attempted.

But he can also get hot.

And if our defense lets him get comfortable Sunday, he could have one of those afternoons where everything starts clicking.

I don’t want to see Jameis celebrating on the sideline while our defense stands around looking confused.

Not this week.

Not against our former quarterback.

And definitely not with the whole city already wondering what’s wrong with this team.

Tyler Shough Needs Help. NOW.

I’ve been hard on Tyler Shough lately.

But let’s be fair.

Against Minnesota, he threw for only 96 yards with two interceptions.

That’s terrible.

No argument.

But what exactly is he supposed to do when the offensive line can’t protect him and the running game can’t get going?

Football isn’t a one-man sport.

Shough needs time to throw.

He needs receivers getting open.

And he needs a running game that forces defenses to think about something besides rushing the quarterback.

Alvin Kamara has been dealing with a back injury, and Chris Olave has been dealing with an illness. Both are listed as questionable heading into Sunday.

That’s not exactly encouraging.

But injuries or not, Kellen Moore has to find a way to put this offense in a position to succeed.

Short passes.

Quick decisions.

Better blocking.

A little creativity.

Something!

Because if I have to sit through another game where the Saints struggle to reach 150 yards of offense, somebody better check my blood pressure.

And while we’re at it, let’s stop acting like every defensive coordinator in the NFL has discovered some secret formula.

When your offensive line can’t block, the opposing defense doesn’t need a secret formula.

It just needs to show up.

The Defense Has an Opportunity

Here’s some good news.

Jameis Winston can be pressured.

And the Giants have had problems protecting him.

That’s an opportunity for our defensive front.

Cam Jordan and company need to make Jameis uncomfortable from the opening series.

Don’t let him settle in.

Don’t let him stand in the pocket all afternoon.

And for the love of everything black and gold, when somebody has the football in his hands, TACKLE HIM!

We’ve seen too many missed tackles, too many big plays, and too many drives where the defense seems to forget how to get off the field.

The Giants aren’t some unbeatable powerhouse.

They’re a team finding ways to win football games.

Something we used to know how to do.

And that’s what bothers me.

You look at these two teams, and I don’t believe the Saints are so lacking in talent that they should automatically lose.

But right now, New York is playing with confidence.

And New Orleans?

We’re playing like a team waiting for something bad to happen.

That has to change.

Will Heads Roll If We Lose?

Now let’s get to the question everybody’s thinking about.

If the Saints lose to the Giants on Sunday, does somebody lose his job?

Maybe.

But I wouldn’t bet my last cigar on it.

Kellen Moore is still trying to establish himself as the head coach of this football team. And firing coaches every time things go wrong isn’t exactly a recipe for building a winning organization.

But there has to be accountability.

And I’m not just talking about the head coach.

I’m talking about everybody.

The coordinators.

The position coaches.

The players.

The front office.

When a team starts 1–4, nobody gets to point fingers and pretend they’re innocent.

And here’s something else.

Losing to Jameis Winston wouldn’t automatically mean somebody deserves to be fired.

But losing to Jameis while looking as unprepared and confused as we did against Minnesota?

That’s a different conversation.

Because at some point, the question stops being whether this team has talent.

The question becomes whether the people running it know how to use that talent.

And if the Saints fall to 1–5, Mrs. Benson is going to have some difficult questions to ask.

She might not make changes immediately.

But I guarantee you the fans will be demanding answers.

And they should.

Tony’s Prediction: My Heart and My Head Are Fighting Again

All right, here comes the part where everybody gets to laugh at me.

I’ve picked the Saints to win the last two weeks.

And both times, they’ve made me look like a fool.

Against Atlanta, I believed the Domecoming anniversary would inspire them.

Wrong.

Against Minnesota, I believed honoring Drew Brees would light a fire under this team.

Wrong again.

Now we’re playing the Giants.

On the road.

Against our former quarterback.

And I’m supposed to make another prediction?

Good Lord.

My heart tells me the Saints are better than 1–4.

My head tells me they haven’t shown much evidence of that lately.

But there’s one thing I keep coming back to.

The Giants are beatable.

Jameis can make mistakes.

And this Saints team has enough talent to win a football game if the offensive line holds up and the defense actually tackles somebody.

So here goes.

Tony’s Prediction: Saints 20, Giants 17.

There.

I said it.

Again.

Maybe I’m stubborn.

Maybe I’m crazy.

Maybe thirty-plus years of Saints football have finally done permanent damage to my brain.

But I’m not picking Jameis Winston to beat my Saints.

Not yet.

And if they prove me wrong again?

Well, I might have to let somebody else make next week’s prediction.

Final Thoughts From the Westbank: The Time for Talking Is Over

I want to finish with something serious.

Gayle Benson is right to be disappointed.

The fans are right to be angry.

And Kellen Moore and his players have every right to believe they can turn this season around.

But belief doesn’t win football games.

Blocking does.

Tackling does.

Execution does.

And when you keep losing, somebody eventually has to answer for it.

I don’t want to see anybody lose his job.

I don’t enjoy watching coaches get fired or players get released.

I want to see this team WIN.

I want to see Tyler Shough develop into the quarterback we believe he can become.

I want to see Alvin Kamara have room to run.

I want to see Chris Olave making big catches.

I want to see Cam Jordan and this defense make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks.

And most of all, I want to watch a Saints game without wondering how they’re going to find a way to lose it.

Is that too much to ask?

Sunday, October 18. MetLife Stadium. Noon New Orleans time.

Saints versus Giants.

Jameis Winston versus his old team.

Gayle Benson watching.

Kellen Moore feeling the pressure.

And Tony from the Westbank sitting there with his cigar, hoping somebody finally gives him a reason to smile.

Because if we lose this one, the question won’t just be whether the season can be saved.

It’ll be whether somebody’s job can be saved.

Come on, Saints.

Don’t make me regret picking you again.

WHO DAT!

— Anthony “Tony” from the Westbank

Who Dat Nation, I’ve got to say it straight — that game against the Vikings was awful. There’s no sugarcoating it.

Everyone Struggled

The offensive line? Terrible. No protection, no push in the run game, and Shough was running for his life. The defense? Even worse. Missed tackles, blown coverages, zero energy. It felt like every unit on the field was out of sync, and that’s not how you win in the NFL. the only redeeming thing was the 2 fumbles caused by the defense.

Domecoming Hangover

After letting us down in Domecoming, this was supposed to be the bounce-back. Instead, the Saints looked flat again. As a fan, it’s frustrating and disappointing to watch — especially when you know how much talent is on this roster.

Drew’s Take

I’m disappointed. Everyone sucked. It was just an awful game. If the Saints keep playing like that, we’re not going anywhere. But here’s the thing: the season isn’t over.

The NFC South Factor

The only silver lining is that the NFC South might be the worst division of all time. Nobody’s running away with it. That means even after ugly losses, the Saints still have a path to bounce back, stack some wins, and fight their way into the playoffs.

Final Thought: This game was embarrassing, but it’s not the end. The Saints have to wake up, play with pride, and take advantage of a weak division. The playoffs are still possible — but only if we stop looking like this.

WHO DAT ⚜️

Minnesota Vikings 23 – New Orleans Saints 13

Well, Who Dat Nation, I asked for it.

Last week, after that embarrassing loss to Atlanta, I wrote a story titled “No More Speeches. Show Me.”

I told the Saints I didn’t want to hear about preparation. I didn’t want excuses. I didn’t want another press conference explaining what went wrong.

I wanted them to SHOW ME.

Well, they showed me, all right.

And I wish to hell they hadn’t.

Minnesota came into the Superdome Sunday afternoon, beat us 23–13, and sent the Saints to 1–4.

Three straight losses. Three straight home losses.

And once again, on a day when we were celebrating one of the greatest players in Saints history, our football team couldn’t give the fans something worth celebrating.

I’ve got my cigar. I’ve got my drink. And I’ve got a question.

What in the hell has happened to our New Orleans Saints?

Ninety-Six Yards. Are You Kidding Me?

Let’s start with the offense.

Tyler Shough finished the game completing 16 of 25 passes for 96 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions.

Ninety-six passing yards.

Not 196.

Not 296.

NINETY-SIX!

The entire Saints offense managed 142 total yards.

I’ve seen more offensive movement in a grocery store checkout line on a Sunday morning.

Now, I’m not putting this entire disaster on Shough. The kid has shown us he can play football. We’ve watched him throw for big numbers earlier this season.

But today? He looked lost.

And that offensive line?

I don’t know what to say anymore.

We spent all week talking about Minnesota’s defensive pressure. We knew the Vikings were going to bring the heat. Everybody in New Orleans knew it.

Apparently, knowing it and doing something about it are two entirely different things.

Chris Olave finished with four catches for 46 yards. Kendre Miller had 30 rushing yards on ten carries. Alvin Kamara carried the ball just three times for 12 yards.

Three carries for Kamara.

Let that sink in.

I’m not saying Kamara would have magically fixed everything. But when your offense is struggling to move the football, you’d think finding ways to get one of your most experienced playmakers involved might be worth considering.

Instead, we watched an offense that couldn’t sustain drives, couldn’t establish a running game, and couldn’t find answers.

And I’m tired of hearing that we’re going to fix it next week.

The Defense Gave Us a Chance. The Offense Gave It Right Back.

Here’s what really gets me.

For all the problems this team has, the defense actually gave us a moment to believe.

Late in the third quarter, Jonas Sanker scooped up a Minnesota fumble and returned it 87 yards for a touchdown.

Eighty-seven yards!

Suddenly, it was 13–13.

The Superdome had life again.

For a few minutes, I thought maybe this was the turning point. Maybe this was the spark we’d been waiting for.

Maybe somebody had finally decided enough was enough.

And what happened?

Minnesota marched down the field and Aaron Jones scored on an eight-yard touchdown run to open the fourth quarter.

Just like that, the Vikings were back in front.

Minnesota finished with 364 total yards. Aaron Jones rushed for 113 yards and a touchdown. Kyler Murray completed 24 of 30 passes for 229 yards and a touchdown.

And while our defense certainly wasn’t perfect, I’m not putting this one entirely on them.

When your offense produces 142 yards and gives the football away twice, you’re asking your defense to perform miracles.

That’s not a winning formula.

That’s a recipe for another miserable Sunday.

Drew Brees Deserved Better Than This

This is the part that bothers me most.

Last week, we celebrated twenty years since the 2006 Domecoming, and the Falcons embarrassed us.

This week, Drew Brees returned to the Superdome to be inducted into the Saints Ring of Honor.

Drew Brees.

The man who helped change everything.

The quarterback who came to New Orleans when this city was still trying to find its footing after Katrina.

The man who gave us hope, gave us unforgettable Sundays, and eventually gave us a Super Bowl championship.

He deserved a standing ovation.

He deserved every bit of recognition he received.

And the fans deserved a football team that understood the significance of the occasion.

Instead, we got another loss.

Think about that.

Two consecutive home games celebrating two of the most important chapters in Saints history.

And two losses.

I’m not saying the players don’t care.

But I am saying that whatever they’re doing isn’t nearly good enough.

Because the Saints teams Drew Brees led weren’t perfect. They lost games. They had bad afternoons.

But you always felt like they had a chance.

Right now?

I’m watching this team and wondering where the next first down is coming from.

That’s a terrible feeling for a Saints fan.

Kellen Moore, It’s Time for Some Answers

Look, I understand this is a long season.

I understand injuries happen.

I understand Minnesota came into this game undefeated, with one of the toughest defenses in football.

But I also understand something else.

Good coaches find ways to adjust.

When something isn’t working, you change it.

When your quarterback is struggling, you find ways to make his job easier.

When your running game disappears, you figure out why.

And when your football team loses three straight games, somebody has to take responsibility.

Kellen Moore, I don’t expect you to perform miracles.

But I do expect to see improvement.

Right now, I’m not seeing much.

We have a quarterback who’s gone from looking promising to looking overwhelmed. We have an offense that can’t stay on the field. And we have a team that keeps finding new ways to disappoint its fans.

At some point, the explanations have to turn into solutions.

Because 1–4 isn’t just a bad start anymore.

It’s becoming a very serious problem.

And Now We Have to Go on the Road

Next Sunday, the Saints head to New York to face the Giants.

And after that, we’re off to Paris to play Pittsburgh.

Two more games away from the Superdome.

Maybe getting out of New Orleans will actually do this team some good.

Because apparently playing at home isn’t helping.

We’re 0–3 in the Dome this season.

Can you believe that?

The Superdome used to be a place opposing teams dreaded visiting.

The noise. The energy. The fans. The atmosphere.

Now teams are coming in and leaving with victories while we’re left trying to figure out what went wrong.

And here’s the scary part.

If this team doesn’t figure something out quickly, we’re going to be talking about draft picks before Halloween.

I don’t want that.

I didn’t wait all offseason for five weeks of football to make me start thinking about next year.

But I’m also not going to pretend everything is fine.

It isn’t.

Tony’s Final Thoughts: I’m Still Here. But I’m Running Out of Patience.

Last week, I predicted the Saints would beat Minnesota 23–20.

I believed the emotion of honoring Drew Brees, combined with the embarrassment of losing to Atlanta, would bring out something special in this team.

I was wrong.

Again.

And I can admit that.

I’ve been a Saints fan long enough to know that sometimes your heart makes predictions your brain should have stopped.

But here’s what I want everybody to understand.

I’m not angry because the Saints lost to an undefeated Minnesota team.

I’m angry because of how they lost.

One hundred forty-two yards of offense.

Ninety-six passing yards.

Two interceptions.

Another wasted opportunity.

Another celebration of Saints history overshadowed by a disappointing performance.

And another Sunday night wondering where this team goes from here.

I don’t need this team to win the Super Bowl this year.

I don’t even need them to win every Sunday.

But I need to see some pride.

Some improvement.

Some evidence that the coaches and players have a plan to turn this thing around.

Because right now, I don’t see it.

And that hurts.

I love this team. I’ve loved them through the good years, the bad years, the paper bags, the heartbreak, and the Super Bowl.

I’m not going anywhere.

But being loyal doesn’t mean being blind.

This isn’t good enough. Not for New Orleans. Not for the fans. And not for that fleur-de-lis.

So congratulations, Drew Brees. Thank you for everything you gave this city. You reminded us what Saints football can be when leadership, talent, preparation, and heart come together.

As for the current Saints?

I’ve got one more thing to say.

Last week I told you to show me.

Today, you did.

Now show me something DIFFERENT.

WHO DAT!

— Anthony “Tony” from the Westbank

Who Dat Nation, this one isn’t just another game. After the Domecoming letdown against the Falcons, the Saints have to prove they can respond. Sunday Morning against Minnesota is the perfect chance to show we’re not folding — we’re fighting.

The NFC South is still wide open. One bad night doesn’t end the season, but stacking losses does. Beating the Vikings isn’t just about the standings — it’s about confidence, momentum, and proving to the fans that this team can finish games.

Saints Offense: Tyler Shough needs protection. The offensive line was a disaster last week, and if they don’t step up, the Vikings’ pass rush will feast.

Saints Defense: Bijan Robinson ran wild on us, and now we face another tough test. The defense has to tackle better and play with pride.

Vikings: They’re not unbeatable, but they’re disciplined. If the Saints bring energy for all four quarters, this game is winnable.

This is bounce-back time. The Saints can’t afford another flat performance. I think Shough makes enough plays, the defense tightens up, and the team shows some fight.

Final Score Prediction: Saints 17, Vikings 14.

I told y’all last week I had nothing.

Nothing to say. Nothing to celebrate. And absolutely nothing good to say about watching the Atlanta Falcons come into our house, on the anniversary of one of the greatest nights in Saints history, and embarrass us 45–24.

Well, a week has passed. I’ve had time to cool off. I’ve had a few cigars. I’ve listened to the excuses, the explanations, and all the talk about getting back to basics.

And you know what?

I’m done listening.

This Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings come marching into the Superdome, and I don’t want another speech about pride, preparation, or learning from mistakes.

I want to see some damn football.

That Wasn’t Just Another Loss

I’ve been a Saints fan long enough to know the difference between losing a football game and getting your heart ripped out.

Last Monday was the second kind.

Twenty years after Steve Gleason blocked that punt and helped give New Orleans one of the most unforgettable nights this city has ever experienced, we watched the Falcons run all over our defense.

Five rushing touchdowns.

Five!

I don’t care how you dress that up in a press conference. That is unacceptable.

The Superdome was supposed to be rocking. The ghosts of 2006 were supposed to be smiling. Instead, Falcons fans had something to celebrate, and Saints fans were left wondering what happened to their football team.

You don’t erase that with a good week of practice.

You erase it by showing up on Sunday and playing like wearing that fleur-de-lis means something.

Minnesota Isn’t Coming Here to Make Us Feel Better

Now let’s talk about the Vikings.

They’re 4–0.

We’re 1–3.

And before somebody tells me the Saints have a chance because we’re playing at home, let me remind you that we’ve already lost two straight games in that building.

Minnesota has the NFL’s top scoring defense, allowing just 12.8 points per game. Meanwhile, our defense is dead last, giving up 32 points a game.

Read that again.

We’re giving up more than twice as many points as Minnesota.

The Saints are allowing nearly 148 rushing yards per game, ranking 30th in the league. Minnesota allows just 84.5.

And our offense? Believe it or not, we’re averaging 26.3 points per game.

That tells me something important.

This team has enough offensive talent to compete. But you can’t keep asking your offense to rescue a defense that can’t get off the field.

And against this Vikings defense, Tyler Shough isn’t going to have the luxury of standing back there all afternoon waiting for somebody to get open.

Minnesota brings pressure. Lots of it.

If our offensive line plays like it did against Atlanta, this could get ugly in a hurry.

Three Things I Want to See Sunday

First, somebody needs to remember how to tackle.

I don’t need a fancy defensive scheme. I don’t need somebody explaining gap assignments on television. I need eleven guys who can wrap up a running back and put him on the ground.

Second, protect Tyler Shough.

The kid has shown he can move the football. He’s thrown for over 1,100 yards through four games. Chris Olave is making plays. There are weapons on this offense.

But Shough can’t throw passes lying on his back.

And Alvin Kamara needs some room to run. Remember the last time Minnesota visited the Superdome? Christmas Day 2020. Kamara scored SIX rushing touchdowns.

Six!

I’m not asking for six this Sunday. I’d settle for a running game that makes the Vikings respect the possibility of a handoff.

Third, play four quarters.

Not one good opening drive. Not one impressive defensive series. Not twenty minutes of football followed by forty minutes of confusion.

Four quarters.

Because that’s what good teams do.

And that’s what we haven’t been doing.

Another Special Day in the Dome

There’s something else happening Sunday that makes this game even more important to me.

Drew Brees is being inducted into the Saints Ring of Honor at halftime, and he’ll receive his Pro Football Hall of Fame ring.

Now, I don’t know about y’all, but that man will always have a special place in my heart.

Drew didn’t just come to New Orleans and throw touchdowns. He helped bring this franchise, and this city, back to life.

He showed us what leadership looks like. What preparation looks like. What happens when everybody on a football team believes in the same thing.

He helped give us a Super Bowl.

And here’s the part that gets me.

Last week we celebrated the 2006 Domecoming and got embarrassed.

This week we’re honoring Drew Brees.

Are we really going to let another celebration of Saints history turn into another miserable afternoon?

I sure as hell hope not.

Because if there was ever a day for this team to remember what Saints football is supposed to look like, it’s Sunday.

I’m Not Giving Up. But I’m Not Making Excuses Either.

Some folks are already talking about next year.

Some are blaming the coaches. Others are blaming the players. Everybody’s got an opinion.

Well, here’s mine.

It’s October.

We’re four games into the season.

And while 1–3 is a lousy place to be, it’s not a death sentence.

But 1–4?

That’s a hole you don’t want to dig, especially with road games against the Giants and Steelers coming up next.

The Saints don’t need to become the best team in the NFL overnight.

They need to become a team that can tackle, protect its quarterback, establish some kind of running game, and stop beating itself.

Those are the basics.

And if you can’t do the basics, all the talent in the world isn’t going to save you.

Tony’s Prediction

Now, here’s where some of y’all are going to laugh.

I picked the Saints to beat Atlanta.

I believed the Domecoming anniversary would bring something special out of this team.

I was wrong.

Dead wrong.

So I’m not going to sit here this week and tell you the Saints are going to blow out an undefeated Minnesota team.

That would be foolish.

But I also refuse to believe the team we watched against Atlanta is the best these Saints can give us.

Minnesota has a tremendous defense. They’re undefeated for a reason. And they have every reason to believe they’re coming into New Orleans and leaving 5–0.

But the Superdome can still be a special place when the Saints give the fans something to believe in.

And with Drew Brees being honored, there won’t be any shortage of emotion in that building.

So I’m going to put my neck out one more time.

Tony’s Pick: Saints 23, Vikings 20.

Call me crazy.

Call me stubborn.

Call me a Saints fan who hasn’t learned his lesson.

I’ve been called worse.

But this prediction comes with a warning.

If the Saints come out Sunday and give us another performance like last Monday, I’m done making excuses for them.

Not done loving them.

Not done wearing my black and gold.

Not done yelling WHO DAT.

But done pretending everything is fine when it clearly isn’t.

Final Thoughts From the Westbank

I want every player wearing that Saints uniform to understand something.

When you walk onto that field Sunday, you’re not just representing a football team.

You’re representing a city that has been knocked down more times than anybody can count and somehow always finds a way to get back up.

You’re representing fans who have supported this franchise through decades of heartbreak.

And on Sunday, you’re playing in front of one of the greatest quarterbacks who ever wore that uniform.

So don’t tell us how much last week’s loss hurt.

Don’t tell us how hard you practiced.

Don’t tell us what you learned.

SHOW US.

Show us you can tackle.

Show us you can block.

Show us you can fight for sixty minutes.

Show us that the fleur-de-lis on your helmet still means something.

Because after what happened last week, words don’t mean a damn thing.

No more speeches. Show me.

WHO DAT!

— Anthony “Tony” from the Westbank

Who Dat Nation, I’ve got to be honest — Domecoming was supposed to be a celebration, but the Saints flat-out failed New Orleans in this one.

The offensive line was disappointing from start to finish. Protection broke down, the run game never got rolling, and Shough was under pressure way too often. You can’t win in the NFL if your line is getting bullied like that, especially in front of the home crowd.

As bad as the line was, the defense was even worse. Bijan Robinson ran all over us like it was a college highlight reel. Missed tackles, blown assignments, and zero answers when the Falcons leaned on him in the second half. That’s not Saints football, and it’s not what Domecoming deserved.

This was supposed to be a night to honor the Dome, the fans, and the history of this team. Instead, the Saints looked flat and let the Falcons steal the moment. That’s the part that hurts the most — the team didn’t rise to the occasion.

But here’s the thing: the future isn’t all dark. The NFC South is still wide open, and one bad night doesn’t end the season. We’ve got time to regroup, fix the mistakes, and fight our way back. The Saints can still make noise in this division if they learn from this loss. They need to come back and get a big win against the Vikings at home next week though.

Final Thought: Domecoming was a disappointment, no doubt. But the season isn’t over. The Saints can bounce back — and Who Dat Nation will be there when they do.

Alright, Who Dat Nation.

Tony picked the Saints.

I picked them before the season started.

I stuck with them last week.

Monday morning I was talking about Steve Gleason, the Dome, twenty years of memories and how that building was going to erupt when they showed that blocked punt again.

And then the game started.

Falcons 45. Saints 24.

I’ve been sitting here trying to figure out what Tony is supposed to say about this one.

And for once…

I’ve got nothing.

Not because there’s nothing to talk about.

Because there’s almost too damn much.

Of All Nights…

That’s the part that gets me.

Twenty years after one of the greatest nights in the history of that building.

Steve Gleason was there.

Curtis Deloatch was there.

They led the Who Dat chant.

Irma Thomas sang the national anthem just like she did in 2006.

The Dome was ready.

The Who Dat Nation was ready.

And Atlanta came into our building and embarrassed us.

Not Carolina.

Not Tampa.

Atlanta.

On that night.

That’s what makes 45–24 hurt differently.

Three Plays

That’s how long it took.

Atlanta’s third offensive play.

Bijan Robinson.

59 yards. Touchdown.

Seven-nothing.

Before anybody had settled into their seat, Atlanta had punched us in the mouth.

Then it became 14–0.

At halftime?

24–7.

Think about that.

All week we talked about the emotion of 2006.

All week we talked about making the Dome shake again.

Atlanta didn’t care.

They walked into the middle of our celebration and took the air right out of the building.

205 Yards. Five Touchdowns.

Tony usually has questions after a loss.

Why didn’t we kick?

Why did we call that play?

Was that really a fumble?

Where was the ball control?

This week I’ve got a much simpler question:

How in the hell do you let your biggest rival run for FIVE touchdowns in your building?

Atlanta finished with 205 rushing yards.

Bijan Robinson: 145 yards and two touchdowns.

Brian Robinson: 62 yards and three touchdowns.

That’s five rushing touchdowns between two running backs.

At some point, forget schemes.

Forget analytics.

Forget whether you’re playing zone or man.

Somebody has to say:

You’re not running through us anymore.

That never happened.

And Don’t Tell Me the Score Made It Look Worse

No.

The score looked bad because the game was bad.

Atlanta had 420 yards.

New Orleans had 320.

Atlanta never trailed.

The Saints fell behind 14–0 and never got closer than seven.

There was no fourth-quarter heartbreak this time.

There was no controversial call that decided the game.

There was no two-point conversion that almost won it.

There was no if only…

Atlanta beat us.

Period.

I’m Not Putting This All on Shough

Tyler Shough finished:

30 of 48.
286 yards.
1 touchdown.
0 interceptions.

Was it a great night?

No.

Was he the reason we lost 45–24?

Tony doesn’t see it that way.

Chris Olave gave him another big game with 8 catches for 116 yards, including a 44-yarder.

Devaughn Vele caught the touchdown.

Alvin Kamara scored twice on the ground.

There were individual moments.

But this wasn’t an individual-player problem.

This was a team getting beat in its own building problem.

About Those Boos

I heard them.

Everybody heard them.

And apparently Shough did too.

You know what?

Good.

I’m not saying that because I want these guys to fail.

It’s the opposite.

Saints fans filled that building on a Monday night.

They celebrated Gleason.

They remembered 2006.

They showed up for their football team.

And when that football team didn’t show up for them, they let them know about it.

That’s part of playing in New Orleans.

We’ll love you.

We’ll defend you.

We’ll travel with you.

We’ll argue with anybody who comes after you.

But don’t expect us to smile through 45–24 against Atlanta.

Cam Said It Better Than Tony Can

Cam Jordan’s reaction after the game tells you everything you need to know:

“To lose like that… to them… gut punch… sorry New Orleans!”

Then came the part I really liked:

“24 hr rule is dead… WAKE The hell up! get better now.”

There it is.

Don’t spend 24 hours feeling sorry for yourself.

Don’t tell us to be patient.

Don’t tell us there were positives.

Wake the hell up.

Because this team is now 1–3.

Maybe That’s Why Tony Has Nothing

After Detroit, I saw fight.

After Baltimore, I saw progress.

After Las Vegas, I saw a team that had control of a football game and gave it away.

After Atlanta?

I don’t know what I saw.

That’s what bothers me.

Four weeks into this season, what exactly are the New Orleans Saints?

Because Monday night was supposed to tell us something.

Home.

Monday Night Football.

Atlanta.

Twenty-year Domecoming anniversary.

Your biggest rival standing across from you.

If there was ever a night when motivation shouldn’t have been a problem, that was it.

And Atlanta wanted it more.

That’s hard for Tony to swallow.

So Now What?

Minnesota comes to the Dome Sunday.

There isn’t a speech I want to hear this week.

I don’t need somebody telling me practice was good.

I don’t need somebody telling me everybody is staying positive.

I don’t need to hear that it’s a long season.

Show me.

Stop the run.

Protect the football.

Quit digging holes.

Play four quarters.

And for God’s sake, defend your home field.

Because 1–3 can still become something.

But not if what we watched Monday night becomes who this team is.

Tony Was Wrong

I picked the Saints.

I believed the Dome would matter.

I believed the emotion of the night would matter.

I believed this team would understand what Saints-Falcons meant Monday night.

I was wrong.

Completely wrong.

And this time I’m not asking whether the refs screwed us.

I’m not asking whether we should’ve kicked a field goal.

I’m asking something much bigger:

Who are these Saints?

Because after four games, Tony isn’t sure anymore.

Maybe you are.

So tell me.

Am I overreacting to one terrible night?

Was this just one of those games where everything went wrong?

Or did Monday night show us something about this Saints team that we need to start taking seriously?

And here’s the biggest question:

After watching Atlanta beat us 45–24 in our own Dome, what needs to change FIRST?

Defense?

Coaching?

Running game?

Attitude?

Something else?

Tony’s at a loss for words.

So this time, Who Dat Nation, you tell me what needs to be said.

— Tony from the Westbank

WHO DAT.

This Monday night, the Saints take on the Falcons in the Dome — and it’s not just another rivalry game. It’s the anniversary of one of the most legendary moments in Saints history: the blocked punt that shook the Dome back in 2006. Now here’s the thing — I wasn’t alive to see it. I’ve only watched the highlights, heard the stories, and seen how much it meant to the city. But even if I didn’t live it, I know how iconic it was. That play wasn’t just football; it was a symbol of hope and comeback for New Orleans.

Coming off a tough loss, we need to prove we can finish games. Tyler Shough has shown flashes, but consistency is key. meanwhile the falcons are coming off a major win against the packers. Their offense has weapons, but their defense can be exposed if we stay aggressive.

This game is personal. It’s the Falcons. It’s Monday Night Football. It’s the Dome on the anniversary of the blocked punt. The Saints have to show fight, and I think they will.

Final Score Prediction: Saints 31, Falcons 14.

Alright, Who Dat Nation.

I picked this one months ago.

Saints over Atlanta.

And after everything we’ve seen through the first three weeks, I’m not changing it now.

Monday night. Falcons. Saints. Caesars Superdome.

Both teams 1–2. First NFC South game of the season. Atlanta swept us last year. A Saints win would even the all-time regular-season series at 57–57.

That’s already enough to make this a big game.

But Monday night is about something more.

Twenty Years Ago, I Was There

September 25, 2006.

I’ve talked about that night before because it’s impossible for me to think about Saints-Falcons in the Dome without remembering it.

I was there.

New Orleans had been through hell. The Saints hadn’t played in the Superdome since Katrina. Then that building reopened on Monday Night Football against — of all teams — the Atlanta Falcons.

Atlanta lined up to punt early in the first quarter.

And then No. 37 came flying through.

Steve Gleason blocked it.

Curtis Deloatch recovered it in the end zone.

Touchdown Saints.

I’ve been to a lot of Saints games.

I’ve heard that Dome loud plenty of times.

But that moment was different.

It wasn’t just cheering.

It felt like an explosion.

For one moment, everything New Orleans had been through came pouring out of 70,000 people at the same time.

And twenty years later, we’re going to see it again Monday night.

They’re going to show that block on those giant screens.

They’re going to show Gleason.

They’re going to show that crowd from 2006 losing its damn mind.

And when they do?

That Dome is going to ERUPT.

I don’t care whether you were sitting there twenty years ago or weren’t even born yet.

You’re going to feel it.

And if I’m wearing a Saints uniform Monday night, I’m watching that replay and thinking one thing:

We aren’t losing to Atlanta in this building tonight.

Now Make Your Own Memory

That’s my challenge to this Saints team.

Honor 2006.

Celebrate Gleason.

Remember what that night meant to this city.

But then go make your own moment.

This team is 1–2. Atlanta is 1–2.

Nobody needs to explain what 1–3 would mean.

And nobody wearing black and gold needs an explanation of what beating Atlanta means.

The Raiders game is over.

Forget the turnovers.

Forget the controversial call.

Forget the fourth-quarter collapse.

You can’t change any of it.

But you damn sure can decide what happens next.

Tony Picked This One Months Ago

Before the season, I went through every game.

When I got to Atlanta in the Dome?

WIN.

I didn’t need much time to think about it then.

I don’t need much time now.

I’m sticking with it.

Monday night isn’t about what happened against Detroit, Baltimore or Las Vegas.

It’s Saints-Falcons.

It’s the Dome.

It’s Monday Night Football.

It’s the 20th anniversary of one of the greatest moments that building has ever witnessed.

And it’s an opportunity to get to 2–2, start NFC South play 1–0, and remind Atlanta what that building sounds like when the Who Dat Nation has something to scream about.

Twenty years ago, No. 37 came through that line and changed the feeling of an entire city with one blocked punt.

Monday night, when they roll that replay…

Stand up.

Get loud.

Let those Falcons hear what twenty years of that memory sounds like.

And then let’s make another one.

Tony picked the Saints months ago.

Tony’s sticking with the Saints.

Beat Atlanta.

WHO DAT!

— Tony from the Westbank

Who Dat Nation, I’ve got to be real with y’all — this one hurt. The Saints had chances against the Raiders, but the way we handled the fourth quarter left me shaking my head. What really stings is how the team looked in the fourth quarter. The Raiders kept pushing, and instead of fighting back, the Saints seemed to fold. The energy dropped, the defense got pushed around, and the offense couldn’t find answers. It was like the team gave up before the clock hit zero, and that’s not the Saints football we expect in the Dome. And while many will argue that the fumble call was the refs screwing us I think that it was a fair call and the real blame lies with the saints failing in the fourth quarter, I’ll always support this team, but I’m not going to sugarcoat it. The Saints had opportunities, and they let them slip away. The numbers will show some decent performances, but the eye test says we didn’t finish. Final thought: Kick the field goal. Play all four quarters. Don’t give up. That’s how you win in the NFL.

WHO DAT ⚜️