There's no way around it: It's been a rough few weeks for young Saints WR Chris Olave.
In Week 7 he found himself on the receiving end of a tirade from his QB over a play that's been analyzed to death and increased criticism. Four days later he found himself under arrest for alleged reckless driving.
In Week 8 Olave made an impact with five catches for 49 yards, but it was a few decisions and one non-catch that caught even more attention, with a ball bouncing off his helmet to eliminate what appeared to be a wide open touchdown.
"He just lost the ball there," head coach Dennis Allen said. "I mean, he ran a hell of a route and then just kind of couldn’t find the ball coming out of it.”
The Saints' offense had its best day of the season in a 38-27 win over the Colts to climb back to .500. Olave contributed multiple key catches, including a third down conversion as his team worked to ice the game in the fourth quarter. Allen also made it clear that any perceived lack of confidence in the former first-round pick isn't originating from inside the building.
"I think he’s in a good spot," Allen said after the game. "I mean, there’s ups and downs with young players. I’m not worried about Chris Olave. I think he’s going to be a big part of what we’re able to do, hopefully successfully, as we go down the stretch here."
Olave leads the team in both catches (44) and yards (517). The Saints return home in Week 9 for a showdown with the Bears at the Caesars Superdome.
