Derek Carr and the Saints’ new offense quickly found their rhythm, scoring a touchdown on their very first drive and putting up 30 points in the first half alone. New Orleans’ defense also had a strong performance.
Carr threw three touchdown passes, and the Saints scored on their first nine drives in a 47-10 win against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
“That was a fun way to start the season,” said Carr, who had faced some boos at the Superdome last year but received enthusiastic cheers this time. “They liked us a lot today. That was nice.”
Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams each ran for touchdowns, and Blake Grupe made four field goals, including two from over 50 yards, marking an impressive debut for new Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. His first game as a play-caller resulted in the highest point total for the Saints in a season opener.
“That’s what we made some changes for,” Kamara said. “I’ve been here a while and I know what it’s supposed to feel like — and it felt good today.”
The Panthers, who had a rough 2-15 record last season, made several changes in their front office, coaching staff, and roster to improve this year. However, the season opener was a tough start for new coach Dave Canales and second-year quarterback Bryce Young.
“The nature of the loss matters, but whether it was by three points or as much as it was today, you have to just count them as a loss and then move forward to the next challenge,” Canales said. “In weeks from now, it’s not going to matter what the score was.”
Young completed 13 of 30 passes for 161 yards and was intercepted twice — once by each safety Will Harris and Jordan Howden.
The Saints also took advantage of another turnover when safety Tyrann Matthieu forced and recovered a fumble from receiver Jonathan Mingo.
