The New Orleans Saints improved to 1-1 with a 24-17 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, driven by Tyler Shough’s efficient passing and late-game execution.
The New Orleans Saints (1-1) defeated the Baltimore Ravens (1-1) 24-17 on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro, securing their second win of the 2026 NFL season. The decisive factor was quarterback Tyler Shough’s ability to manage high-leverage situations, highlighted by a game-sealing 1-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter that followed an efficient two-point conversion attempt. The victory moves New Orleans into first place in the NFC South, while Baltimore drops to second in the AFC North.
Saints Offensive Execution
Tyler Shough orchestrated the Saints’ offense with remarkable precision, completing 27 of 34 passes for 252 yards and one touchdown. His efficiency allowed New Orleans to control the tempo against a depleted Ravens defense. Wide receiver Chris Olave served as Shough’s primary target, hauling in eight receptions for 86 yards and scoring a crucial 21-yard touchdown reception. That score set up the momentum shift when running back Travis Etienne Jr. converted a two-point conversion to extend the lead.
While the ground game was limited, with Etienne recording eight carries for 25 yards, the Saints relied on timely scoring drives. Kicker Daniel Carlson provided stability from long range, sinking field goals of 23, 47, and 51 yards. The Saints’ ability to convert opportunities into points, rather than settling for field goals in every drive, proved vital. Shough also contributed directly on the scoreboard with his late rushing touchdown, sealing the win after the Ravens had trimmed the deficit.
Ravens Resilience Amidst Absences
The Baltimore Ravens fought hard despite significant roster limitations, but ultimately fell short in the final minutes. Quarterback Lamar Jackson completed 21 of 31 passes for 235 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. Running back Derrick Henry carried the load on the ground with 16 rushes for 68 yards and a 1-yard touchdown, keeping the Ravens within striking distance for much of the contest. Rashod Bateman led the receiving corps with seven catches for 88 yards and a 22-yard touchdown reception off a pass from Jackson.
Baltimore’s defense, anchored by safety Kyle Hamilton who recorded 13 total tackles, attempted to stifle the Saints’ passing attack. Defensive end Trey Hendrickson generated pressure with one sack, but the unit struggled to contain Shough consistently. Special teams player Tyler Loop handled kickoffs and extra points, including a 49-yard field goal that kept Baltimore close. However, the absence of key contributors prevented the Ravens from executing a final comeback drive.
Turning Point: Late Fourth Quarter Sequence
The game remained competitive until the final sequence where New Orleans capitalized on offensive efficiency. After Chris Olave’s 21-yard touchdown catch, the Saints opted for a two-point conversion, which Travis Etienne Jr. successfully executed. This extended the lead and forced Baltimore to respond immediately. Despite Derrick Henry’s earlier efforts and Bateman’s reception, the Ravens could not overcome the point differential created by this sequence. Shough’s subsequent 1-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a standard kick from Daniel Carlson, put the game out of reach, capping a dominant finish for the visiting squad.
What It Means for Both Teams
For the Saints, the win solidifies their standing in the NFC South and provides confidence heading into Week 3 against the Las Vegas Raiders. However, the team faces challenges with injuries along the left side of the offensive line, notably the indefinite loss of left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. due to a high ankle sprain requiring surgery. The interior linemen must step up to protect Shough, especially with Chase Young leading the defensive front with 1.5 sacks.
For the Ravens, the loss highlights depth issues exacerbated by multiple absences, including Nnamdi Madubuike, Teddye Buchanan, Isaiah Stalbird, Christen Miller, and wide receiver Zay Flowers, all listed as Out. With Ronnie Stanley questionable and others on injured reserve, Baltimore must navigate a critical Week 3 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro. The team will look to rebound from this heartbreaker and regain momentum in the AFC North race.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler Shough Efficiency: Completed 27-of-34 passes with zero turnovers, proving clutch in late-game scenarios.
- Saints Defense Pressure: Chase Young recorded 1.5 sacks, while linebacker Pete Werner anchored the defense with 11 tackles.
- Ravens Injury Impact: Key starters like Zay Flowers and Nnamdi Madubuike were unavailable, limiting Baltimore’s offensive and defensive options.
- Kicking Game Disparity: Daniel Carlson made three field goals, including from 51 yards, providing consistent scoring support for New Orleans.
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