The New Orleans Saints opened their 2025 preseason with a 27-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. While the team struggled overall, the game offered a closer look at the Saints’ quarterback competition. Rookie Tyler Shough and second-year pro Spencer Rattler both saw meaningful playing time as the Saints search for clarity under center.
Tyler Shough Shows Poise Amidst the Struggle
Tyler Shough entered in the second quarter and quickly made an impact. He completed 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards and threw a highlight-reel 54-yard touchdown pass to Mason Tipton. Although Shough threw an interception returned for a Chargers touchdown, his overall play stood out as a bright spot for the offense.
Reflecting on his performance, Shough said, “It felt good to get out there and lead the offense. Of course, there are things to clean up, but I’m focused on learning and getting better each game.”
In contrast, Spencer Rattler, who started the game, struggled to find rhythm. He completed just 7 of 11 passes for 53 yards and failed to register any touchdowns. CBS Sports writer Bryan DeArdo described his play as “rattled,” with visible mental processing issues affecting his reads and decisions.
Rattler acknowledged his struggles, stating, “I didn’t play how I wanted, but I’m going to keep working to get better. This is a long process, and I’m focused on improving every day.”
Haener was 5-of-8 for 41 yards with an interception over two drives in the fourth quarter. He led the Saints to three points following a six-play, 18-yard drive that started near midfield.
Coach Kellen Moore Weighs In
Head coach Kellen Moore was candid about the quarterbacks’ performances. He said, “For all three quarterbacks, Tyler, Spencer, and Jake, there are going to be some good moments, and there are going to be moments we want to have back. This is a process, and it’s important for them to learn from each play and keep growing.”
Moore also acknowledged the challenge the offense faces as a whole, stating, “We have to clean up the mistakes and execute better. Preseason is about evaluation and growth, and we’ll keep pushing forward.”
Offensive Struggles Highlighted
Despite flashes of promise from Shough, the Saints’ offense as a unit struggled to maintain consistency. The team converted only 3 of 13 third-down attempts and committed three turnovers—two interceptions and one fumble. The rushing attack was limited to just 61 yards, putting extra pressure on the quarterbacks to carry the offense. These struggles underscore the need for better protection and more effective play-calling moving forward.
What’s Next for the QB Competition?
With the loss behind them, the Saints will look to build on what they learned as they prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in their next preseason game. The quarterback battle remains very much open. Shough’s showing gives the coaching staff something to build on, while Rattler will look to rebound and prove his readiness. Haener is likely out of the running.
The quarterback battle remains very much open. The coming weeks will be crucial for each player as they fight for the starting assignment in Week 1.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Saints QB Battle Update: Shough Impresses, Rattler Struggles in Preseason Opener appeared first on Heavy Sports.