Three matchups that will define Saints-Panthers rematch

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

By Ross Jackson

Much of the New Orleans Saints’ rematch with the Carolina Panthers will center around the development of Saints’ rookie quarterback Tyler Shough. But the performances around him are just as important.

New Orleans is trying to establish consistency and promise for its new era by closing out the 2025 season strong. After playing spoiler the previous weekend to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Saints and their young, developing weapons have a chance to do so again in Week 15.

Here are the three biggest matchups that can shape the game and impact the Saints’ read on their rookie passer.

Saints WR Chris Olave vs. Panthers CB Jaycee Horn

A rematch inside the rematch, Olave and Horn are sure to be an entertaining and competitive matchup to watch on Sunday. In their last bout, Olave reeled in a 62-yard touchdown reception down the right sideline and piled on 104 yards receiving in the day, his highest total of the season.

Horn is looking to bounce back from a rough game as he returns from concussion protocol off the bye week. The battle between these two could set Shough up for success or to struggle throughout the day.

Panthers DL Derrick Brown vs. Saints Interior OL

The Saints’ interior has had some concerns throughout the season, particularly at guard. Standing up again Brown would be a major vote of confidence for the group. Brown already has a career-high four sacks on the season, an impressive mark for a defensive tackle.

If Brown wins his matchups with the Saints’ guards, it could make things challenging for Shough, who likes to step up in the pocket. That is a tough task if the pocket is collapsing from the inside.

Additionally, Brown’s contributions as a run stopper could be a nuisance as well. If rookie running back Devin Neal and the position group have trouble producing in the ground, it could limit head coach Kellen Moore’s offensive attack.

Saints CB Alontae Taylor vs. Panthers QB Bryce Young

#Saints Alontae Taylor vs. Bryce Young:

⚜️5 games
⚜️3 sacks
⚜️1 INT
⚜️5 pressures
⚜️8 passes defended
⚜️22 catches on 34 targets (64.7%)
⚜️196 yards allowed (8.9 per reception)
⚜️1 TD allowed

Also forced a fumble and has 6 tackles for a loss against the Panthers offense.

— Ross Jackson (@RossJacksonNOLA) November 10, 2025

Taylor has had a lot of success in his five games facing Young. He had a trio of big plays against the passer in their Week 10 meeting, including a clutch interception. If Taylor can continue to be a distributive presence against the Panthers’ offense, it will make the Saints’ offense’s job easier.