Is Derek Carr playing today? (Injury update, Saints vs. Chargers betting impact)

The New Orleans Saints are expected to be without quarterback Derek Carr for a third straight game after he was ruled questionable for Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

That’s consistent with what head coach Dennis Allen said earlier this week when he reported that Spencer Rattler – the Saints’ fifth-round draft pick – was scheduled to start on Sunday.

The Saints are 0-2 with Rattler under center, but have lost five straight games overall and dropped to one of the bottom spots in the NFC.

Rattler wasn’t terrible for New Orleans, but he wasn’t great either. The bigger issue is that the Saints rank last in the NFL in yards allowed per play and 28th in points allowed so far in the 2024 season.

With Rattler starting the game, New Orleans has a seven-point advantage on the road. Hopefully for the Saints, Carr will be able to resume regular activity soon and get back into the lineup before this season is completely over for them.

Here’s a look at Rattler’s props for Week 8.

DraftKings Sportsbook Odds.

I actually don’t mind targeting Rattler’s passing yards in what should be a negative game scenario for the Saints.

The Chargers have allowed the fourth-fewest passing yards in the NFL this season (they already had a bye week), but Rattler was able to throw for 172 yards against Denver last week, which was No. 1 in pass defense last week.

In his second game, he easily passed that prop, throwing for 243 yards against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Chris Olave expected to return in Week 8, Rattler should have more options in Sunday’s passing game.

If the Chargers go up like this spread suggests, Rattle should try a lot of passes in Week 8.

Rates are refreshed periodically and are subject to change.

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