The New Orleans Saints did not receive the injury update that they were hoping for concerning their wide receiver. For a team that has struggled to consistently produce points, this ongoing set back is not looking optimistic from the wide receiver corps of the New Orleans Saints.
Against what has been a red hot team in the Giants, the New Orleans Saints are hoping that a minor miracle can somehow allow for a somewhat unexpected on field appearance.
New Orleans Saints Game Time Decision
Based on the most recent reports, Chris Olave is officially expected to be a game time decision. According to his progressions throughout the week, and talks with the staff, it is not looking like he is likely to play, and is considered doubtful at this point.
Not being able to practice all week, he has been dealing with an ankle injury all week and was listed as questionable. The team is waiting for warm ups, to see how he feels, but it is not looking good for Olave.
New Orleans Saints Needing To Step Up
With his likely absence, others will need to step up. However, the New Orleans Saints are receiving some promising news regarding other players on the roster.
Utility belt player, Taysom Hill is looking like he will return to face the Giants. Being able to line up in many positions, and be effective he is a welcomed return. He could be used on gadget plays, especially if the New Orleans Saints are struggling to move the chains against this Giants defense. Able to have a full practice Friday, it looks like he is as close to full health as he can be at this point of the season. He is someone that will need to have a big day if the New Orleans Saints are going to get the win.
Another notable return is that of Rashid Shaheed. Even with Olave in the lineup he was the consistent number two target, without him he will likely be the primary option in the passing game. He had faced a hamstring injury over the past two weeks, but is looking to make an impact for the New Orleans Saints today.
New Orleans Saints Playoff Chase
Given how frustrating games have been for this New Orleans Saints team, it may really need to be a sum of the parts approach to replace the drop off from missing Olave. When healthy, Olave is a highly talented receiver that can make a play on any given down.
Considering how Derek Carr has struggled, especially in his latest games, losing Olave will be a big development to continue to see how the team is able to respond. Given the frustrations with Carr and his emotions boiling over, toward his offensive line, it may be a run focused approach today against the Giants.
Alvin Kamara needs to have a big game for the New Orleans Saints, as both a runner, but also catching passes out of the backfield. If the New Orleans Saints are able to contain Tommy DeVito, you would think that Carr would be expected to out duel DeVito in the passing game.
A win keeps you in contention with a crowded NFC South to play for, a loss may prove to be the nail in the playoff coffin.