The New Orleans Saints were able to win a slugfest in Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans. It was a game in which the defenses dominated for the most part, putting an emphasis on the kicking game.

Nick Folk went 5-for-5 for the Titans, while Blake Grupe went 3-for-3 for the Saints. The difference in the game was one touchdown scored by New Orleans, who won the game 16-15 to get off to a 1-0 start.

Moving the ball was difficult for both teams, especially for the Titans through the air. Ryan Tannehill struggled mightily, completing 16-of-34 attempts for 198 yards and three touchdowns. He was unable to get anything going as the Saints’ secondary played an excellent game.

Cornerback Marshon Lattimore was leading the way for the shutdown performance front he secondary. He shut down whoever he was matched up against during the game, as PFF graded him as one of the best performers in Week 1.

According to PFF, the Saints’ cornerback recorded a 90.2 coverage grade, allowing only two receptions and forcing three incompletions. He recorded one of the three interceptions against Tannehill, allowing a passer rating of 6.9 when being targeted.

That is a truly dominant performance, something that the Saints have become accustomed to over the years. Lattimore is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL and he once again showcased why in Week 1. Having him back in the lineup after playing in only seven games last season is a huge boost for the team.

The Saints are hoping that level of performance continues in Week 2 when they head on the road to face the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers have 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young leading their offense, providing Lattimore a chance to feast on a young quarterback just getting his feet wet in the league.