The New Orleans Saints tallied another loss on Sunday afternoon. They fell in a disappointing game 10-34 to the Los Angeles Rams. Despite the score, some players still impressed. However, more didn’t meet expectations.
It's important to take these with a grain of salt. A player's designation as a winner or loser doesn't determine their outcome for the season. They will fluxuate weekly, as one of the players on the list has.
With that said, it's time to get into the list. Below I have two winners and three losers from the Saints loss against the Rams.
Chase Young continues his impressive season
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### Winner: Chase Young
Chase Young is the best player on the Saints. That’s been evident ever since returning from injury in week six. He continued his strong season with two total tackles and a sack. He’s established himself as the premier edge rusher. New Orleans should still invest in one this offseason-but to be complementary with Young instead of the number one option.
### Loser: Alvin Kamara
It’s time to accept that Alvin Kamara’s play is finally declining. He had six attempts for 14 yards and one fumble. He’s just not as explosive as he once was. Kamara’s only had over 70 yards just once this season. He’s still a good running back, but it may be time to give rookie Devin Neal some carries.
### Winner: Juwan Johnson
Juwan Johnson didn’t have a spectacular game. He had 3 receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown as a receiver and was sub-par as a run blocker. However, it’s clear that he has chemistry with former Oregon teammate Tyler Shough. Johnson didn’t record a drop and was a reliable target. Him being consistent for Shough is paramount to his success. The Saints offensive line isn’t great, which means the rookie will be looking for a quick, reliable option. Johnson took a big step in establishing himself as that on Sunday.
### Loser: Kool-Aid McKinstry
Odds are Kool-Aid McKinstry will appear in this article weekly, but it’s impossible to guess whether he will be a winner or loser. His roller-coaster of a season continued on Sunday, this time trending down. He struggled to cover both Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, with the latter scoring a touchdown against him in the redzone. He’s got all the talent in the world, but it doesn’t mean anything if he can’t be consistent. The rest of the season is pivotal in proving he can be the top cornerback on the roster.
### Loser: Cesar Ruiz
Cesar Ruiz struggled against an elite Rams interior defensive line. He gave up an easy sack and consistently was beaten. Ruiz just looks lost without Erik McCoy at center. The Saints should try to trade him at the deadline. If they can’t, it may be wise to try out Dillon Radunz or Toricelli Simpkins for a game.