The Combination of Chris Olave And Jordyn Tyson Will Help Their QB Tremendously
Another reason the Saints offense will be better is the development of second-year quarterback Tyler Shough. During their first 9 contests, the Saints were ranked in the bottom half of the league in a number of offensive categories due to mediocre quarterback play.
Compared to the other 32 teams, the Saints were 28th in scoring offense while only averaging a minuscule 15.3 points per game. They were also ranked 23rd in total offense, 31st in turnovers, and 26th in third-down conversions. After accumulating a 1-7 record to begin the season, the team made the switch to Shough, who finished the season 5-4, including a 4-0 stretch.
The team was able to gain confidence after Shough’s stellar play elevated the offense. As the starter, Shough was responsible for increasing the scoring output from 15.5 to 19.8 points per game. The team also improved in total offense, going from 23rd to 21st, but the more impressive stat was going from 31st to 10th in turnover margin by the end of the season.
Shough’s connection with Olave played a major part in this improvement. Through 9 starts, Shough targeted Olave 9.8 times per game, resulting in the receiver making 48 catches for 660 yards and six touchdowns. This led to Olave’s selection to the Associated Press All-Pro second team.
The Saints are banking that Shough will develop that same chemistry with Tyson, making the rookie’s transition to the NFL a little easier. Offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier runs a pro-style attack, which incorporates routes designed to stretch the field. Tyson has proved he can be successful in that type of attack. Hopefully, learning the playbook won’t be too difficult for him.
Opponents also have to account for Tyson’s ability to track the ball in the air, his explosiveness, and will have trouble guarding him coming out of his breaks on short and intermediate routes. He should develop into a dangerous weapon with Shough getting him the ball in space, giving him opportunities to gain positive yardage after the catch.
