Canal Street Chronicles
How did the rookies fare in their first Thursday game?
The New Orleans Saints have been dealing with an absurd number of injuries this season. As a result, many rookies had to suit up in their matchup on Thursday against the Denver Broncos.
Fuaga was once again reliable with his run blocking, despite the overall struggle of the run game. According to PFF, his run blocking was some of the best it's been in his young career with a grade of 70.8.
Unfortunately, the same could not be said for his pass blocking. With a grade of 28.5 of PFF, it was one of Fuaga’s worst performances as a pass blocker. Ironically though, a highlight of his was on a passing play.
After cornerback Paulson Adebo was carted off with a leg injury, second-round NFL Draft pick Kool-Aid McKinstry saw an uptick in action. He would play in 33 snaps - his most since week two. Only targeted once, he didn’t give up a reception.
Spencer Rattler would get the nod for his second ever start. Achieving relatively similar results to the previous week, he would complete 25 of his 35 pass attempts for 172 yards. He would still have one turnover after the ball was batted out of his hands by linebacker Cody Barton. Former Saint Kwon Alexander would take the ensuing fumble into the endzone.
Fifth-round pick Bub Means once again showed off the chemistry that he has with Spencer Rattler. He was targeted five times and came away with three receptions for 60 yards.
Yet another fifth-round pick, Jaylon Ford has continued his quiet yet so far successful rookie season. He 17 total tackles, the second most of his career. Last week against Tampa Bay, Ford had 18. For the season, that brings his total up to 55 total tackles.
Undrafted free agent Mason Tipton had the most productive game of his career. Still awaiting his first touchdown, Tipton was targeted nine times for six receptions and 45 receiving yards. His run blocking was also terrific, with a grade of 80.4 on PFF. For Tipton, that's over 20 points of what his previous “best” was.
