A Long-Awaited Breakthrough
After 11 starts without a win, Spencer Rattler at last got to kneel in the victory formation Sunday, closing out his first career NFL victory as a starting QB. (Reuters) The matchup? The New Orleans Saints vs. the New York Giants, with the Saints winning 26–14.
In doing so, Rattler also became the first quarterback drafted by the Saints to win a game for New Orleans since 1998. (CBSSports.com)
Game Snapshot & Key Plays
Rattler, a South Carolina alumnus, completed 20 of 30 passes for 225 yards, tossed one touchdown, and avoided turnovers. His highlight came on an 87-yard touchdown pass to Rashid Shaheed, which helped swing momentum. (Reuters)
The Saints’ defense played a huge role — the Giants turned the ball over five times (three fumbles and two interceptions), and one fumble return by Jordan Howden went 86 yards for a touchdown.
It all culminated in that final sequence: with the Saints ahead, Rattler took the snap in victory formation and knelt down, officially capping the breakthrough. (AP News)
What It Means, and What’s Being Said
This win marks a turning point in Rattler’s NFL journey. Prior to Sunday, he had gone 0–10 as a starter. Analysts are noting that this could shift perceptions about his potential.
On social media, former NFL defensive back Ryan Clark weighed in:
“No one is paying attention, but Spencer Rattler deserves to be a starting quarterback in this league.”
Rattler himself echoed a forward-looking mindset after the win:
“Feels good, man. Feels good to get that first win. … Catch that momentum … keep working, keep progressing … the outcome will take care of itself.” (On3)
Context & Significance
- With this win, both Spencer Rattler and Saints head coach Kellen Moore snag their first victories in their respective roles. (AP News)
- The Saints had been winless so far in 2025 — this break ends that drought.
- For New Orleans’ franchise history, it’s especially notable: they had not had a drafted QB win a game in many years. (CBSSports.com)
If you like, I can also put together a “What’s next?” look at how Rattler’s season might unfold now that he’s broken the seal. Would you want me to do that?
