{
  "id": 1158911,
  "title": "Studs and duds from the Saints' preseason-opening loss to the Jaguars",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/16/studs-and-duds-from-the-saints-preseason-opening-loss-to-the-jaguars",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-16T00:43:50.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/studs-duds-saints-preseason-opening-004350940.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In the Saints' preseason opener against the Jaguars, New Orleans found itself trailing 20-6 at halftime before being outscored 18-0 in the second half. While the overall result may not be particularly impactful, several standout performances were on display.\n\nZach Wilson emerged as a stud, showcasing a strong debut. He completed 11 of 16 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown pass to rookie tight end Oscar Delp. His ability to push the ball downfield and make several big plays earned him a positive roster case.\n\nOn the opposite end of the spectrum, Spencer Rattler struggled as a dud. Completing only eight of his 11 passes for just 42 yards, Rattler also took two sacks and lost a fumble. His performance could provide valuable insight into the QB2 competition moving forward.\n\nMichael Heldman demonstrated why he's a promising rookie. The undrafted player racked up six total tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for loss. His strong performance in training camp has him making a serious push for roster spots.\n\nThe Saints' second-half offensive struggles were highlighted by the team's inability to score after taking a 20-6 halftime lead. Hunter Dekkers came close to a game-winning drive but ultimately fell short.\n\nBub Means stood out in the receiving department, recording 77 yards on four catches. His significant gains helped set up the game-winning touchdown pass to Oscar Delp. As a player who might be on the fringe of the roster, Means' strong outing could tip the scales in his favor.\n\nCharlie Smyth managed to convert both of his extra-point attempts but missed a crucial 52-yard field goal. Tanner Brown, however, remained consistent with his kicking, making successful kicks from 49 and 29 yards. Smyth's field goal attempt will be a point of interest as the team looks to finalize its roster.\n\nLastly, Ty Chandler made an immediate impact with an 86-yard kickoff return that set up Audric Estime's touchdown. Chandler's impressive return also showcased his ability to contribute as a rusher, adding another dimension to his role on the team.",
  "summary": "Zach Wilson and Michael Heldman stood out, but several New Orleans Saints players struggled in a 24-20 preseason loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.",
  "key_points": [
    "Zach Wilson showcased strong debut, completing 11 of 16 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown.",
    "Spencer Rattler struggled as a dud, completing only eight of his 11 passes for 42 yards."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Several Saints players boosted or hurt their roster chances with standout or struggling performances in the preseason opener, setting up interesting decisions for the team to finalize its roster.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}