The shutout dropped the Saints to 0-2 in the preseason, while the Rams improved to 2-0.
Saints Turnovers and Penalties Pave Way for Rams Shutout
According to neworleanssaints.com, the Saints struggled with ball security and discipline, losing the turnover battle 3-0 and committing 12 penalties for 96 yards. New Orleans was penalized twice for having 12 men on the field. The Rams capitalized on the mistakes, keeping the Saints’ offense off balance throughout the afternoon.
Veteran quarterback Zach Wilson started the game for New Orleans, completing six of 12 passes for 55 yards and an interception in the first half, as reported by neworleanssaints.com. The Saints rested their starters following two joint practices in California earlier in the week. Spencer Rattler took over at quarterback for the second half, finishing 14 of 23 for 141 yards with one interception, while rushing five times for 21 yards.
Missed Opportunities and Defensive Scores
On the ensuing possession, the Saints advanced inside the Rams’ 10-yard line before running back Ty Chandler fumbled at the 2-yard line.
According to neworleanssaints.com, the Saints’ lone scoring chance ended when Tanner Brown missed a 39-yard field goal attempt to the right. Running back Kendre Miller contributed six carries for 22 yards and a 29-yard kickoff return, while C.J. Donaldson added three rushes for 15 yards and three receptions for 46 yards.
Injuries Compound Preseason Struggles
The Saints also sustained personnel losses during the first half, with running back Devin Neal and tight end Moliki Matavaoto exiting due to injuries, according to neworleanssaints.com. Following the contest, the team prepares to return to New Orleans for an open practice Wednesday night at Tulane’s Yulman Stadium ahead of their final preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys on Friday.