The New Orleans Saints begin the 2025 NFL season Sunday when they host the Arizona Cardinals inside the Superdome. BetMGM lists New Orleans as a 6.5 point underdog, a line that signals low external expectations for the opener.
Arizona enters with a balanced roster led by quarterback Kyler Murray and rising receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The Saints counter with change at the top, as Kellen Moore makes his debut as head coach.
Betting analyst Quinn Allen said “the Cardinals defense is built to make life miserable for a first time starter like Spencer Rattler.” He added that “Arizona’s passing game could prove too much for a young Saints secondary.” Wallace Delery of Canal Street Chronicles predicted a 24 to 17 upset for New Orleans, saying “the Saints find a way to control the tempo behind Alvin Kamara.”
Kellen Moore’s First Game
Sunday marks the beginning of the Kellen Moore era in New Orleans. The former Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator replaces Derek Carr, who retired after last season.
Moore named Spencer Rattler the starter after a preseason competition with rookie Tyler Shough. He praised Rattler’s progress, saying the quarterback “demonstrated consistency and playmaking ability during the offseason and preseason.”
Zach Pressnell of Sports Illustrated described the quarterback situation as the team’s most pressing issue, saying “the Saints’ biggest problem is much worse than you think.” He projected New Orleans may only win three or four games because of its lack of stability under center. Moore has a chance to change that perception quickly.
Players Who Can Make an Impact
Running back Alvin Kamara remains the focal point of the offense. NBC Sports analyst Denny Carter said he is “locked in as a fantasy RB1 against the Cardinals in Week 1.” His ability as both runner and receiver makes him the most reliable option for Moore and Rattler.
On defense, the pressure will fall on edge rushers Carl Granderson and Chase Young. Darrion Gray of WhodatDish said “Granderson has to collapse the pocket and force the Cardinals into uncomfortable situations.” He also pointed out that Young’s health will play a major role in the outcome.
Rattler will also be under the spotlight. His ability to manage the offense and avoid mistakes could determine how competitive the Saints are in Moore’s first season.
What the Game Means
Arizona is favored and carries more proven talent. Week 1 often delivers surprises, and the Saints will enjoy the lift of a home crowd eager for a new beginning. That energy can be a decisive factor early, especially if New Orleans strikes first and builds confidence against a team expected to contend for the playoffs.
If Kamara produces, if the pass rush disrupts Murray, and if Rattler proves ready, New Orleans can pull off an upset. A win in this setting would energize the roster and the fan base. It would also give Moore the kind of signature victory that sets a foundation for belief and momentum throughout his first season. Even in defeat, the Saints will take their first step in a new direction, with answers beginning to emerge about what Moore can build.
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