ClutchPoints
The Seattle Seahawks are poised to capitalize on their defensive dominance against a struggling Saints team that has yet to find its rhythm this season. With New Orleans sitting at 0-2 and facing serious concerns on both sides of the ball, Seattle’s home-field advantage at Lumen Field should prove decisive in what shapes up as a statement game for both franchises.
The Saints enter this Week 3 matchup desperately seeking their first victory of 2025 after narrow defeats to Arizona (20-13) and San Francisco (26-21). Meanwhile, the Seahawks are riding momentum from a convincing 31-17 road victory over Pittsburgh that showcased the potential of Mike Macdonald’s defensive system. With contrasting trajectories and playoff implications on the line, this contest promises several bold outcomes that could define each team’s season trajectory.
Despite an impressive start to his professional career with zero interceptions through two games, Spencer Rattler’s perfect streak will come to an abrupt end against Seattle’s opportunistic defense. The Saints quarterback has completed 52 of 80 pass attempts for 421 yards and three touchdowns, but faces his most challenging test yet against a Seahawks defense that has transformed under Mike Macdonald.
Seattle’s defense leads the NFL in quarterback pressure rate while rarely resorting to blitzing, creating consistent disruption through their defensive line rotation. The Seahawks have held opponents to under 20 points in consecutive games, showcasing their ability to generate timely turnovers and create short fields for their offense. Second-year defensive tackle Byron Murphy has emerged as a breakout performer, complementing veteran pass rushers in Macdonald’s complex scheme.
Rattler’s mobility and arm talent have impressed through two weeks, but the hostile environment at Lumen Field combined with Seattle’s coverage disguises will test his decision-making. The Saints’ offensive line has allowed four sacks in two games, and with Seattle’s ability to generate pressure without sending extra rushers, Rattler will face consistent pocket pressure throughout the afternoon. This perfect storm of circumstances makes multiple turnovers likely for the young quarterback making his first road start.
Kenneth Walker III is primed for a breakout performance against a Saints defense that has struggled to contain rushing attacks through the first two weeks of the season. The third-year running back bounced back emphatically in Week 2 with 105 rushing yards and a touchdown on 13 carries against Pittsburgh, far outpacing teammate Zach Charbonnet who managed just 10 yards on 15 attempts.
Walker’s explosive 19-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter demonstrated his ability to break games open when given opportunities. The Saints’ defense has been particularly vulnerable on third down conversions and in critical situations, allowing 46 total points through two games. New Orleans ranks among the bottom half of the league in points allowed per game at 23.0, creating favorable conditions for Seattle’s ground game.
The Seahawks have emphasized establishing their running game early under offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb,...
