Saints vs. Chiefs live updates: Score, highlights for 'Monday Night Football' Week 5 game

Table of Contents

Game Overview

Date: October 7, 2024
Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Kickoff Time: 8:15 PM ET

The New Orleans Saints face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in what promises to be an electrifying matchup. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in their respective divisions, with the Saints aiming for a bounce-back after a rocky start, while the Chiefs are riding high on their recent performances.

Pre-Game Highlights

Key Players to Watch

New Orleans Saints
Derek Carr (QB): The veteran signal-caller needs to find his rhythm against a tough Chiefs defense.
Alvin Kamara (RB): Always a dual-threat, his ability to run and catch will be crucial.
Chris Olave (WR): The young receiver is emerging as Carr’s go-to target, and his speed can stretch the Chiefs’ secondary.
Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes (QB): The reigning Super Bowl MVP is a game-changer, capable of making big plays at any moment.
Travis Kelce (TE): A matchup nightmare for defenses, he continues to be Mahomes’ favorite target.
Chris Jones (DT): His presence in the middle can disrupt the Saints’ run game and put pressure on Carr.

First Quarter

8:15 PM ET: The game is underway! The Saints win the coin toss and choose to receive.

8:20 PM ET: The Saints’ first drive is promising. Carr connects with Olave for a 20-yard gain, showcasing their chemistry early. However, the Chiefs’ defense tightens up, forcing a 3rd-and-5.

8:25 PM ET: Saints Drive Stalls: After a short completion to Kamara, the Saints settle for a field goal attempt. Will Lutz nails a 42-yarder. Score: Saints 3, Chiefs 0.

8:30 PM ET: The Chiefs take over, and Mahomes quickly moves the ball downfield with short, quick passes. He finds Kelce for a couple of first downs, showcasing their usual connection.

8:35 PM ET: Chiefs Touchdown: Mahomes connects with Rashee Rice for a 25-yard touchdown pass. Rice shakes off a defender to find the end zone. Score: Saints 3, Chiefs 7.

Second Quarter

8:45 PM ET: The Saints respond well, utilizing Kamara effectively. He breaks a couple of tackles for a crucial first down.

8:50 PM ET: Saints Touchdown: Carr orchestrates a methodical drive, capped off by a 5-yard touchdown pass to Juwan Johnson. Score: Saints 10, Chiefs 7.

8:55 PM ET: The Chiefs look to respond, but the Saints’ defense is applying pressure. Mahomes is forced to scramble, and he takes a big hit but manages to complete a pass to Skyy Moore.

9:05 PM ET: Chiefs Field Goal: After a long drive, the Chiefs settle for a 37-yard field goal from Harrison Butker. Score: Saints 10, Chiefs 10.

Halftime Recap

The first half was a showcase of offensive prowess from both teams. The Saints found success with a balanced attack, utilizing Carr’s passing and Kamara’s versatility. Meanwhile, the Chiefs relied on Mahomes’ creativity and quick passing game, keeping the Saints’ defense on their toes.

Key Stats:

Saints Total Yards: 210
Chiefs Total Yards: 230
Derek Carr: 15/22, 145 yards, 1 TD
Patrick Mahomes: 19/25, 190 yards, 1 TD

Third Quarter

9:15 PM ET: The second half begins with the Chiefs receiving the ball. Mahomes quickly gets into rhythm, hitting Kelce for a big gain across midfield.

9:20 PM ET: Chiefs Touchdown: Mahomes finds Marquez Valdes-Scantling on a beautiful 30-yard touchdown pass, threading the needle between defenders. Score: Saints 10, Chiefs 17.

9:25 PM ET: The Saints need to respond. Carr connects with Olave on a deep shot, moving the chains and energizing the crowd.

9:30 PM ET: Saints Field Goal: After a solid drive stalls, Lutz kicks another field goal from 40 yards out. Score: Saints 13, Chiefs 17.

9:35 PM ET: Mahomes continues to show why he’s one of the best, completing passes to multiple receivers. The Chiefs are back in scoring position.

Fourth Quarter

9:45 PM ET: Chiefs Touchdown: Mahomes extends a play and finds Kelce in the end zone for another score. Kelce’s second touchdown gives the Chiefs a solid cushion. Score: Saints 13, Chiefs 24.

9:50 PM ET: With time running out, the Saints know they need a quick score. Carr orchestrates a hurry-up offense, completing passes to Kamara and Olave.

9:55 PM ET: Saints Touchdown: Carr connects with Michael Thomas on a slant route for a touchdown. The Saints are still in it! Score: Saints 20, Chiefs 24.

10:00 PM ET: The Saints kick it deep, and the Chiefs will look to run the clock down. Mahomes is in the zone, and the Chiefs aim to secure their victory.

10:05 PM ET: The Chiefs’ run game kicks in as they chew up valuable clock time. Mahomes uses his legs to escape pressure and extend plays.

10:10 PM ET: The Saints use their timeouts strategically, but Mahomes is managing the game effectively.

10:15 PM ET: The Chiefs get a crucial first down, sealing the game. Mahomes kneels to run out the clock.

Final Thoughts

Final Score: Saints 20, Chiefs 24

This game showcased the brilliance of Patrick Mahomes and the resilience of the New Orleans Saints. Despite the loss, Carr and the Saints showed they can compete with the best, leaving fans eager for the next matchups. The Chiefs continue their strong season, with Mahomes proving once again why he’s one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.