The New Orleans Saints finally broke through in Week 5, securing their first win of the 2025 NFL season with a 26–14 victory over the New York Giants at Caesars Superdome. The win ended an eight-game losing streak dating back to last December and marked a milestone for both quarterback Spencer Rattler and head coach Kellen Moore, who each notched their first career NFL victories.
🔥 Big Plays, Big Momentum
The Saints’ offense came alive behind Rattler, who completed 20 of 30 passes for 225 yards, including a career-long 87-yard touchdown strike to Rashid Shaheed. Shaheed finished with 114 receiving yards, becoming the first Saints player to eclipse 100 yards this season.
On defense, New Orleans was relentless. After allowing touchdowns on the Giants’ first two drives, the Saints forced five consecutive turnovers. Safety Jordan Howden delivered the knockout blow with an 86-yard fumble return for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter. Cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry added two interceptions—his first in the NFL—both in the final quarter.
🧠 Coaching Breakthrough
Kellen Moore, in his fifth game as head coach, earned his first win and was awarded a game ball by his players. “To create five turnovers in a game is really, really special,” Moore said, praising the defense’s aggressive play.
Rattler, who had started his career 0–10, also received a game ball. “It feels good to come into the locker room to music and everybody's smiling and dancing,” he said. “That’s what we work hard for”.
🏁 Looking Ahead
With the win, the Saints improve to 1–4 and hope to build momentum heading into Week 6. The defense’s resurgence and Rattler’s breakout performance offer a glimmer of hope for a team that had previously led for just over four minutes all season.
If the Saints can replicate Sunday’s energy and execution, they may have finally turned a corner.