Thomas Critical of Carr, Saints Following Defeat
New Orleans, LA - The New Orleans Saints suffered a disappointing loss on Sunday, and head coach Dennis Allen was not shy about expressing his displeasure with the team's performance, specifically targeting quarterback Derek Carr.
"We didn't play well enough as a team," Allen stated in his post-game press conference. "We made too many mistakes, and we didn't execute when we needed to."
While Allen acknowledged the team's overall shortcomings, he singled out Carr for his struggles, stating, "Derek needs to play better. We need him to make better decisions and be more accurate with the football."
Carr, who joined the Saints in the offseason, completed just 50% of his passes and threw for only 191 yards, highlighting his inefficiency. He also threw one interception, a costly turnover that ultimately sealed the Saints' fate.
"I take full responsibility for my performance," Carr acknowledged. "I didn't play well enough, and I need to be better. We as a team need to be better. We have a lot of work to do."
Teamwide Disappointment
The Saints' defeat wasn't just about Carr's struggles. The entire team seemed to be playing with a lack of urgency and cohesion. Missed tackles, dropped passes, and untimely penalties plagued the Saints throughout the game.
The defense, known for its physicality and aggression, struggled to contain the opposing offense, allowing for big plays and consistent gains. This lackluster performance left the Saints vulnerable and ultimately led to their defeat.
Looking Forward
With the loss, the Saints now face an uphill battle in their quest for a playoff spot. They need to regroup, learn from their mistakes, and get back on track quickly.
Allen emphasized the need for improvement across the board, stating, "We need to get better in all areas. We need to play with more energy and focus. We need to be more disciplined and execute at a higher level."
The Saints have a chance to bounce back next week against a formidable opponent. The team's ability to adjust and perform under pressure will be critical in determining their success moving forward.