New Orleans Saints: 3 X-factor players for Week 4 vs. Lions

Which New Orleans Saints players must step up to ensure a Week 4 win?

The 2020 NFL season has been full of ups and downs. All of us pegged the New Orleans Saints as being among the best in the league. Heading into Week 4 though, things are looking a lot different. In particular, the Saints have lost two of their last three games with their only win coming against the Bucs in Week 1.

Even though the team has put up a valiant effort, the Saints haven’t been able to finish along with making some risky plays. In particular, the loss of Michael Thomas has made a significant difference in the Saints offense. They hope to right the ship in Week 4, however.

Unfortunately, the Saints had a player test positive for COVID-19 on Saturday night as the team flew into Detroit for the Week 4 contest against the Lions. That puts some doubt in the air about the game but, as of now, the game is still scheduled to be played.

If the game is indeed played, these three Saints players will be critical for the team picking up a win and bouncing back when they need to.

New Orleans Saints X-factor No. 3: Alvin Kamara, RB

Alvin Kamara has been the brightest spot of the Saints offense over the past two weeks. Similar to Thomas last year, Kamara signing his contract and being healthy has yielded incredible results. No doubt he’ll end up being a major X-factor for Week 4 as he has in previous weeks.

Last week, in particular, Kamara finished the game with 58 rushing yards along with 13 receptions for 139 yards. He was truly the MVP of the game, despite the loss. Even if Thomas returns, Kamara must continue to play at a high level. If the Saints want to be successful, relying on Kamara is a must.

New Orleans Saints X-factor No. 2: Demario Davis

Demario Davis has been a critical player for the New Orleans defense, a consistent presence on that side of the ball. The defense has a ton of talent but the proven veteran has been arguably the most impressive performer on that unit through the first three games.

Whether it’s Davis’ ability to tackle in the open field or his ability to blitz and get after the quarterback, he has the opportunity every week to be a dominant force for the defense. His performance is important but, as long he maintains his recent level of play, he’ll step up as needed for the Saints.

New Orleans Saints X-factor No. 1: Emmanuel Sanders, WR

ESPN has reported that Michael Thomas will miss Week 4, which is a huge blow. It doesn’t have to be a death sentence for the Saints, however. And while Kamara must step up, it also means that Emmanuel Sanders needs to be a quality stand-in for Thomas.

Sanders is obviously still fostering his connection with Drew Brees. His Week 3 performance seemed to help solidify things as he looked to be a reliable target. As one of the few veteran receivers on the team, Sanders already has an advantage.

The pass-catcher is obviously talented and we saw Sanders have more receptions and yards in Week 3 than in the first two weeks combined, in addition to scoring his second touchdown of the year. Detroit’s secondary has looked shaky at times and Sanders needs to have his best game yet with the Saints for the offense to click.