The situation is similar with the Saints, who have 15.5 points per game, on par with Pittsburgh. New Orleans is one of three teams that have scored 20 points or fewer in every game so far this season.
The second half of New Orleans’ Week 3 loss to the Packers was tough as they were unable to score any points after Derek Carr left the game with a shoulder injury. The Saints lost by one point after going 17-0 into the fourth quarter. Last week was also brutal, as Carr didn’t score a touchdown and wasn’t quite at 100% in a 26-9 loss to the Buccaneers.
Allen was asked about Carmichael’s status on Oct. 2 and said it was too early to make any changes to the coaching staff.
“Still, we have to get better,” Allen told reporters. “I understand everyone’s frustration because everyone in the building feels it.”
Carmichael is a holdover from former head coach Sean Payton’s staff and has been the Saints’ offensive coordinator since 2009.
For the status quo to remain, things must improve. Some of the team’s best players, from the healthier Carr to Alvin Kamara to the offensive line, need to play better. Coaching can help by putting the best players in a position to succeed.
In both cases, ideally no move is necessary. And in both cases the pressure from the fans is enormous. Only improved performance can eliminate everything.
The Steelers host the Ravens and the Saints visit the Patriots on Sunday.