In their 2024 season opener, the New Orleans Saints delivered a resounding 47-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers, showcasing dominance on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Derek Carr had a standout performance, throwing for three touchdowns, including a 59-yard strike to wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, and connecting with tight end Foster Moreau on a 3-yard touchdown. Carr also demonstrated efficiency, completing 19 passes on 23 attempts and throwing for 200 yards. Carr’s ability to spread the ball efficiently kept the Panthers’ defense on its heels.
Running back Alvin Kamara also made his mark with a 1-yard touchdown run, setting the tone for a balanced offensive attack. Kamara finished the day with 83 yards and one touchdown on 15 rushes and tacked on five receptions for 27 yards. Kicker Blake Grupe was perfect on the day, nailing four field goals, including a career-long 57-yarder that extended the Saints’ lead.
Defensively, the Saints overwhelmed Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young, forcing three turnovers. Defensive back Alontae Taylor recorded three sacks, Tyrann Mathieu recovered a fumble, and Jordan Howden intercepted an errant pass, adding to the Saints’ suffocating defense.
The Panthers struggled to hold onto the ball and sustain drives, allowing the Saints to control the clock and the game. By the end of the contest, the Saints had racked up 379 total yards compared to the Panthers’ 193, demonstrating a complete performance in all phases of the game.
Finally, credit is due to the Saints’ new offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, whose play-calling showed just how dangerous the Saints’ offense can be under his leadership.
The question remains whether the Saints can sustain this performance against more challenging opponents, such as the Dallas Cowboys, whom they will face next week. Nevertheless, for now, the Saints sent a strong message with this dominant win, starting their 2024 season by proving they’re ready to compete at the highest level.
