Sun Oct 13 22:02:10 UTC 2024: ## Saints Starting Rookie QB Rattler Against Buccaneers, Despite Mixed History Against Rookies

**New Orleans** – The New Orleans Saints are making a bold move this Sunday, starting rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler against their NFC South rivals, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This comes after the Saints lost their starting quarterback Derek Carr to an oblique injury.

While the backup quarterback, Jake Haener, has filled in for Carr during the Saints’ blowout games, head coach Dennis Allen has chosen to go with Rattler, citing his mobility and his belief that Rattler gives the team the “best chance” to win against the Buccaneers.

This decision is intriguing, as the Buccaneers have a mixed history against rookie quarterbacks. During the 2010s, the Bucs struggled, going 1-11 against rookie signal-callers. However, since Todd Bowles arrived as either defensive coordinator or head coach in 2019, the Bucs’ record against rookie quarterbacks has improved to 11-6.

While the Buccaneers did beat the Washington Commanders and their rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels this season, they also lost to the Denver Broncos with rookie quarterback Bo Nix at the helm. This inconsistency makes it difficult to definitively state whether Rattler will have an easy time against the Buccaneers’ defense.

Despite the Bucs’ improving record, rookie quarterbacks have historically performed well against them. The average rookie quarterback starter against Bowles’ Bucs defense since 2019 has posted 21-of-32 passing for 233 yards, 1.3 touchdowns, and 0.6 interceptions per game.

Whether Rattler can continue this trend and lead the Saints to victory remains to be seen. However, it is certain that this matchup presents a fascinating test for the young quarterback, and fans will be eager to see how he fares against the Buccaneers’ seasoned defense.

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