NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - In this edition of FFF: A recap of Saints minicamp, U.S.A. Soccer on the struggle bus, and the search for the best red beans and rice in New Orleans continues.
FOOTBALL
Saints mandatory minicamp lasted only two days. So the sample size was small, but there’s no doubt some things to takeaway for Airline Drive.
First off, the quarterback battle between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler will continue at training camp and go through the three preseason games. Right now, I think the two are neck-and-neck. If this stays tight, I think the Saints should give the nod to the rookie.
With the signing of Cam Akers on Friday, the running back room is now quite crowded. Alvin Kamara is your starter. After that, it’s Kendre Miller, Akers, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Devin Neal, Marcus Yarns, Velus Jones Jr., and Xazavian Valladay fighting for the backup spots. Miller better stay healthy, or his days in New Orleans could be numbered.
Less than six weeks until Saints training camp begins, and the team is adding players to the roster.
Running back Cam Akers joins a crowded running back room with Alvin Kamara, Devin Neal, Kendre Miller, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Marcus Yarns and others.
Do the Saints add a CB.… pic.twitter.com/9nTX2kiuM2
— Garland Gillen (@garlandgillen) June 14, 2025
Chris Olave is eligible for a contract extension, but I think the Saints are going to see how this season fares for the former first-round pick. Are the concussion problems over with, and is he back to racking up a 1,000 yards receiving will weigh into the Saints decision.
On defense, I have concerns at the cornerback spot. I think Alontae Taylor is most effective at the nickel cornerback spot. For him to stay there, the Saints need two lockdown corners on the outside. They have one in Kool-Aid McKinstry, but who’s the other. Is it Isaac Yiadom, Quincy Riley, or do they wait to sign Asanta Samuel, Jr. in July.
The safety position is built by “The Boot.” Tyrann Mathieu (New Orleans native) on one side, and Justin Reid (Prairieville) on the other. Mathieu, the St. Aug and LSU alum, is only on a 1-year deal, so this could be a one year duo.
The Saints over/under win total is 5.5 games. I think that’s fair, considering the team finished 5-12 last season and so much youth at the QB spot.
FÚTBOL
We’re a little less than a year away from the 2026 World Cup, and one of the host countries is in crisis.
The United States played two friendlies in the last few days, losing by a combined score of 6-1. That included a beatdown by Switzerland, 4-0. USA fans booed after the fourth goal was given up the first half.
Now, I understand Christian Pulisic didn’t play in these two friendlies. Nor will he play in the Gold Cup this summer.
But, Pulisic revealed this week, he offered to play in the friendlies but not the Gold Cup, so he could some rest after playing 50+ games for AC Milan.
U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino said no thanks, you have to play in the Gold Cup also.
Say what, he’s the captain, this all about preparation for the World Cup. More Pulisic the better.
Plus, Pochettino now has five losses in 10 matches running the USMNT. Take those wins when you can get them.
What are y’all doing U.S. Soccer. Like they said in the legendary movie “Bad News Bears,” let them play!
FOOD
My red beans and rice adventures continued this week, Uptown. Joey K’s was the spot, and those were some very tasty red beans.
Accompanied with some smoked sausage and an appetizer of onion rings, I give huge thumbs up to Joey K’s.
Plus, there’s a lot of seating at Joey K’s. So even on a red beans Monday, there’s ample areas to sit when it’s too hot to be outside.
Queen’s Cuisine, Mandina’s, Lil’ Dizzy’s, Chicken’s Kitchen, Zea’s, Liuzza’s By The Track, Dixie Chicken and Ribs, and Joey K’s I would all recommend trying.
Don’t worry, the lists will continue over these summer months.
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