JACKSON: How Tyler Shough has shifted the Saints’ trajectory

By Ross Jackson

Not everything about the New Orleans Saints’ turnaround can be credited to quarterback Tyler Shough alone. Head coach Kellen Moore, defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, edge rusher Chase Young and wide receiver Chris Olave are all among those deserving of praise for the team’s shifting narrative. 

However, as the quarterback, there are a lot of notable contributions from Shough that have helped to change the trajectory of the team’s future. 

Attitude and Personality

Years ago, the Saints won the favor of many by simply being an enjoyable team to watch. Not just on the field but off. The running back tandem of Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram weren’t just a pleasure to watch running the ball, but they were also outstanding on camera after games. 

These moments presented a vibe of confidence and engagement that had been largely absent until last year. 

Now, Shough is the barometer for confidence and personality, providing clip-worthy moments both on the gridiron and away from the action. He’s helped to put the Saints back in the national spotlight with his own national appearances. 

On-Field Play

Whether attacking the middle of the field, uncorking the deep ball, tucking and running for big gains, moving in the pocket to create big throws or pulling off late-game heroics, Shough plays a style of ball that both keeps the Saints competitive and generates attention. 

He gives the NFL and fans moments that they love. With three game-winning drives, a 7.3 yard per attempt average as a passer, and league-leading 103.3 passer rating in third downs, Shough provided a winning formula at quarterback. 

Connection to the Community

After years with quarterback Derek Carr at the helm, who intentionally or not, never created a perception that he was interested in a genuine connection with the city of New Orleans, Shough has been a return to the expectation, as has Moore. 

Both have made a concerted effort to get the team involved in the community, from Moore’s approach and Shough has made numerous individual efforts that have mattered to the fanbase. 

Shough served as the Grand Marshal for the Krewe of Pygmalion parade. He served as a sort of New Orleans Ambassador along with former passer Drew Brees during the most recent Savannah Bananas visit to the city and did the same during New Orleans’ first Hondo Rodeo Fest. 

The examples continue even down to the contrast between the first meals in New Orleans between Carr (Chipotle) and Shough (Drago’s) and Shough’s early mention of having to replace a tire due to one of the city’s infamous potholes. 

Shough has moved in an intentional and meaningful way since his arrival. In doing so, he’s revitalized the team, the fanbase and the spotlight on New Orleans.