At 1-7, the New Orleans Saints are out of options and running out of time. In a desperate attempt to salvage what’s left of their season, Head Coach Kellen Moore is making a change, announcing that rookie quarterback Tyler Shough will get his first career start against the formidable Los Angeles Rams. The decision sidelines Spencer Rattler, whose costly mistakes forced the team’s hand. This isn’t just a move for the future; it’s a Hail Mary aimed at finding a spark against a 5-2 Rams team that leads the NFC West.
How Will a Rookie QB Tyler Shough Handle the Rams’ Relentless Pressure?
New Orleans Saints, Tyler Shough
Oct 26, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) warms up before a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Kellen Moore made it clear that this change is permanent, not a temporary trial. “Tyler’s starting. We’re not looking back on that,” he said, via NFL.com. That firm vote of confidence sets the tone for Week 9, but the rookie is stepping directly into the path of one of the NFL’s most punishing defenses. Los Angeles ranks third in the league in points allowed, giving up just 16.7 per game, and 14th in pass defense at 208.3 yards, according to FOX Sports.
The real difference-maker, however, is their relentless pressure. The Rams have already tallied 26 sacks and 58 QB hits, led by Byron Young with nine sacks and Jared Verse with four, as noted by Saints Wire.
For Shough, his debut will be defined by rhythm and resilience. In limited action last week, he completed 17 of 30 passes for 128 yards. Known as a more aggressive downfield thrower than Rattler, his style could be a better fit for New Orleans’ speed receivers like Rashid Shaheed (431 yards) and Chris Olave (503 yards), although both have struggled to turn their talent into consistent production. The primary concern remains pass protection. Tackles Taliese Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr. are facing a fierce edge-rushing duo in Young and Verse, while interior pressure from Kobie Turner and Poona Ford threatens to collapse the pocket before plays can develop.
With the Saints’ offense sitting at 29th in points and 27th in total yards, there is no room for a slow start. Consequently, Moore’s game plan will likely rely on short, quick throws to playmakers like running back Alvin Kamara, who has 27 catches, and tight end Juwan Johnson. This approach is designed to neutralize the Rams’ aggressive pass rush. If Shough can handle the early heat and ignite a functional passing attack, it could completely redefine the offensive outlook for the remainder of the Saints’ season.
Entering the game as 14.5-point favorites with a 91.7% win probability, the Rams are expected to dominate. But for New Orleans, Week 9 represents more than just a lopsided betting line. It serves as a crucial proving ground for a rookie quarterback and a head coach tied to the same challenge: forging an identity in the face of adversity. While an upset seems unlikely, this matchup could determine how the Saints approach their rebuild moving forward.