By Niles Carpenter, Saints Contributor 

In a season marred by a six-game losing streak, the New Orleans Saints’ struggles continued in their 26-8 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Rookie receiver Ladd McConkey starred for the Chargers, displaying an impressive range of skills in his breakout performance. After playing a primarily supportive role in his early NFL games, McConkey showed his potential as an all-around threat, recording two touchdowns, including a stunning 60-yard score in the third quarter.

This play earned him a spot in the Chargers’ history books as the first rookie in over a decade to hit the 100-yard mark in a game. Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor attempted to stop McConkey’s touchdown run but was ultimately unable to keep the Chargers’ new weapon out of the end zone, highlighting the Saints’ ongoing defensive challenges.

Saints’ head coach Dennis Allen faces mounting pressure as his team falls to a 2-6 record, its worst since 2005. Offensive misfires defined the Saints’ game, with quarterbacks Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener struggling to find rhythm. Rattler, stepping in for injured starter Derek Carr, completed just 12 of 24 passes and failed to get his team into the red zone, leading to his replacement by Haener in the third quarter.

The Saints’ only points came from a safety, a rarity since 2020, and a pair of field goals by Blake Grupe. Meanwhile, Alvin Kamara’s 122-yard performance was overshadowed by a struggling offensive line and inconsistent quarterback play, which left New Orleans unable to capitalize on his efforts.

McConkey’s exceptional performance added to the Chargers’ offensive push, guided by Justin Herbert, who threw for 279 yards and connected with McConkey for both touchdowns. Herbert praised McConkey’s versatility, noting his ability to contribute on both short routes and long downfield plays. The Saints’ defense saw glimpses of resilience but was ultimately overpowered, conceding a late touchdown that secured the Chargers’ victory.