Image Source: Baltimore Ravens
Ravens fans will get their first look at the 2026 team at M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday, but the New Orleans Saints arrive with more than a rebuilding storyline. Baltimore enters the home opener at 1-0, while New Orleans is searching for its first win after a dramatic 31-30 overtime loss to the Detroit Lions.
The Saints have not reached the playoffs since 2020, Drew Brees’ final NFL season. However, a strong finish last year and the emergence of quarterback Tyler Shough have made New Orleans a dangerous opponent in a wide-open NFC South. Here are five key developments Ravens supporters should know before kickoff.
Ravens Must Solve the Tyler Shough Breakout
Shough has taken an unconventional path to becoming New Orleans’ most promising quarterback since Brees’ retirement. He began his college career as Justin Herbert’s backup at Oregon before transferring to Texas Tech. Injuries shortened each of his three seasons in Lubbock, including a broken collarbone, a shoulder injury and a broken leg.
After moving to Louisville for his final college season, Shough guided the Cardinals to the ACC championship game. The Saints selected him in the second round of last year’s NFL Draft, and he took over as the starter in Week 8.
His resilience quickly became a defining trait. Shough helped New Orleans win four straight games late last season and delivered comeback victories over Carolina and Tennessee. Against the Titans and Panthers, he completed 78% of his passes for 605 yards and three touchdowns without committing a turnover.
His Week 1 performance against Detroit followed a similar pattern. Shough struggled through his first eight drives, completing 10 of 23 passes for 85 yards while throwing two interceptions and losing a fumble. Over his final six drives, he completed 25 of 34 passes for 325 yards and three touchdowns without a turnover.
Saints defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver compared Shough’s arm talent and athleticism to Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen. That praise highlights the challenge facing Baltimore’s defense, particularly if the young quarterback escapes pressure and extends plays outside the pocket.
Chris Olave Creates a Critical Ravens Coverage Test
When healthy, Chris Olave remains one of the NFL’s most explosive wide receivers. In each of the three seasons in which he has played at least 10 games, Olave has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards.
He opened the 2026 season with 10 receptions for 182 yards, both league-leading totals in Week 1. His spectacular leaping catch late in the fourth quarter helped set up New Orleans’ game-tying touchdown and demonstrated why the Saints trust him in high-pressure situations.
Olave was limited during Thursday’s practice because of a hamstring injury. He also wore a Guardian Cap for the first time Sunday after suffering five known concussions since college. Olave has said his long-term health and family are influencing how he approaches his career.
For the Ravens, Olave’s availability could significantly shape the game plan. Baltimore’s pass rush generated the NFL’s highest pressure rate in Week 1 at 52.9%, but the secondary will still face a major test against one of the league’s most polished route runners.
New Orleans Has Useful Weapons Beyond Olave
The Saints invested heavily in their offense during the offseason. Running back Travis Etienne was brought in after producing at least 1,300 scrimmage yards in three of his four seasons with Jacksonville. Guard David Edwards also joined the team after starting successfully with the Rams and Bills.
The early rushing results were modest. New Orleans running backs combined for 85 yards on 20 carries against Detroit, although the Saints’ pass-heavy second-half approach affected that number.
Wide receiver Devaughn Vele also emerged as an intriguing young target. He made several impressive diving catches against the Lions, including a touchdown reception after creating separation at the line of scrimmage.
Tight end Juwan Johnson remains another important piece. Entering his eighth season with New Orleans, Johnson posted career highs of 77 catches and 889 receiving yards last year. He also caught the game-tying touchdown with 67 seconds remaining against Detroit.
Derrick Henry Could Exploit a Vulnerable Saints Defense
New Orleans had one of the NFL’s better defenses last season, finishing 10th in expected points added per play under coordinator Brandon Staley. Still, the unit struggled against Detroit running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who produced 156 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
That performance could create an explosive opportunity for Derrick Henry. The Ravens’ star running back may be asked to carry a heavy workload, especially if Baltimore wants to control tempo, protect Lamar Jackson and test New Orleans between the tackles.
Several Saints defenders remain capable of changing the game. Linebacker Kaden Elliss recorded three quarterback hits and a pass defensed last week. Carl Granderson added a sack, while cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry contributed another pass breakup after recording 17 passes defensed last season.
Outside linebacker Chase Young also made an impressive hit on Jared Goff, although the resulting fumble return touchdown was overturned because officials ruled Goff had begun his throwing motion.
Ravens’ Home Opener Carries Major Stakes
Baltimore has a chance to start 2-0 for the first time since 2023, but the matchup is more competitive than the Saints’ record suggests. Shough has shown poise, Olave can take over a game and New Orleans has enough defensive talent to create problems.
The clearest path for the Ravens is familiar: pressure the quarterback, establish Henry early and force the Saints to defend Jackson in space. If Baltimore can turn its Week 1 pass-rush success into consistent disruption, the home crowd could make life difficult for Shough.
The biggest questions entering Sunday are simple: Can the Ravens keep Shough in the pocket, and will the Saints have Olave at full strength? The answers could determine whether Baltimore protects its home field and begins the season with a convincing 2-0 record.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Ravens play the Saints?
The Ravens host the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Baltimore’s first home game of the season.
What is the Ravens’ record entering the game?
Baltimore enters the home opener with a 1-0 record after winning its season opener against the Indianapolis Colts.
Who is the Saints’ starting quarterback?
Tyler Shough is New Orleans’ starting quarterback. He took over during the 2025 season and has shown strong arm talent and mobility.
Why is Chris Olave important to the Saints?
Olave is New Orleans’ top receiving threat. He opened the season with 10 catches for 182 yards and can change the game with explosive plays.
