Dennis nts Set for Stunning Comeback as Derek Carr Returns to Revive Struggling Offense”
Derek Carr is expected to return to practice on Wednesday and start at quarterback for the New Orleans Saints (2-6) in their Sunday game against the Carolina Panthers (1-7) at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.
Coach Dennis Allen shared on Monday that Carr, who has been sidelined for the last three games with an oblique injury, had a throwing session earlier that day and is on track to play against the Panthers. The Saints previously defeated the Panthers 47-10 in their season opener on Sept. 8 at the Caesars Superdome.
“He looked good in the throwing session,” Allen said. “I expect him to be back at practice on Wednesday. From there, we’ll assess his availability for the week, but I’m optimistic.”
Carr, who has completed 90 of 128 passes (70.3%) for 989 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions this season, hadn’t missed three games in one season due to injury before. Despite battling injuries, he started all 17 games last year.
The Saints hope Carr’s return will spark their offense, which has averaged just 15.7 points per game and suffered six straight losses for the first time since 2005. In Sunday’s 26-8 loss to the Chargers, the team failed to score a touchdown for the first time this season.
“We had 15 plays of over 10 yards, which is the most we’ve had in any game this season,” Allen noted. “The main issue is our consistency. We move the ball well, but penalties and long-yardage situations keep us from capitalizing near midfield. Consistency and attention to detail are areas we need to improve.”
Allen emphasized the need for coaches to focus on details in their teaching, while players must execute these details precisely.
Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler, who started in Carr’s absence, completed 59 of 99 passes for 571 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. He was sacked 14 times.