Saints, Broncos starters set to face off in preseason finale

By Ross Jackson

The final game of the preseason is fast approaching. The New Orleans Saints intend to play their starters for the first time this preseason, with exceptions for health. The majority of starters on the offensive side have seen action already but center Erik McCoy and running back Alvin Kamara could be in line for their first game exposure of the season, along with much of the defense. 

A Clash Of Starters

The Denver Broncos are going to make sure those snaps count. Denver head coach Sean Payton confirmed that the Broncos will play their starters, as well. 

“Our plan is to play our starters for eight to 10 plays,” Payton said. “Depending. That’s not just etched in stone. And then get into our second phase and third phase.”

Payton refers to teams as phases, so “second and third phase” refers to second and third teams. 

Defense To Be Tested

This should be a good measuring stick for the Saints, especially on defense. The Broncos have some playmaking ability in both their passing and rushing game. Just last week, the offense went on a 97-yard touchdown drive that was aided by tight end Evan Engram’s 58-yard reception. 

New Orleans’ defense should see a good test from Denver early in the matchup. 

Offense Looks To Bounce Back

Meanwhile, the Saints’ offense, which struggled against the Broncos in last year’s 33-10 regular season loss, will have a chance to test themselves against one of the league’s better defenses. 

Second-year passer Spencer Rattler will get the start. Last year, he went 25/35 for 172 passing yards, without a touchdown or interception. It sounds like he will only get a maximum of around 10 passing attempts against the Bronco’s starting unit this time around. However, it’s a chance to show growth and development against an opponent he recently faced. 

Rattler was under pressure on 45.5% of his drop backs in that game, so there’s an opportunity for the team’s passing protection to show some improvement.

This should be a strong way to wrap up the 2025 preseason with just a small glimpse into the team’s ability to compete early in the regular season.