By Eric Smith, Editorial Director Chargers.com
Jesse Minter on Facing the Saints Offense on Sunday
5. Rookie Rattler at QB
The Chargers will see Spencer Rattler at quarterback on Sunday.
With Derek Carr still battling an oblique injury, New Orleans will turn to the rookie as he makes his third straight start.
Among quarterbacks in Week 6 and 7 with at least 40 dropbacks, Rattler posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 52.1, which ranked 26th out of 27 quarterbacks.
But Minter said this week he expects a much-improved Rattler at SoFi Stadium against the Bolts.
“I see a young quarterback who’s gotten a little bit better the last two games,” Minter said. “Every snap, I think, when you’re a rookie you get a little bit better. We’ve seen it with our own rookies.
“He had to play two games in a five-day span. Now he’s had a few extra days probably to [say], ‘OK, here’s how fast it goes, this is how fast the game really moves.’ I expect his best performance,” Minter added. “And I expect them to continue to try and put him in position to do the things he does well.”
Through two-plus games (Rattler took over for Carr late in Week 5), the 2024 fifth-round pick has thrown for 415 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. He has compiled an overall passer rating of 70.7.
“They’re going come out and try to run the ball and do things to compliment Rattler’s style of play,” Khalil Mack said. “It’s going to be a challenge, man.”
